California is known for its spacious and scenic routes. With over 1,000 miles of mountain paths, coastal shorelines, and city streets it’s no surprise that motorcyclists enjoy taking to the roads. Each is popular in its own way, but these routes can be equally as dangerous.

When an accident happens due to negligence, riders are more likely to suffer worse injuries than drivers. Last month police investigated a fatal collision involving a motorcyclist on Beach Boulevard. A 90-year-old man collided his Toyota RAV-4 into the motorcyclist’s Harley Davidson early afternoon on September 22.

The rider had been traveling northbound before the incident ensued. Both crashed when he was taking a left-hand turn, resulting in his immediate death. The elderly driver suffered severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The Huntington Beach Police Department has yet to determine if drugs or alcohol were involved.

In California any personal injury lawyer would tell you that the law requires drivers and cyclists to yield to those approaching from the opposite direction before making a left-hand turn. In most cases, we find defendants were distracted, had low visibility, or were speeding before turning left. Typically the person turning left is always liable for the damages.

This marked the second fatal motorcycle-related incident to happen in Huntington Beach this year. On September 11, a similar situation took place. Two residents were also riding a Harley Davidson before colliding with an oncoming vehicle. The driver was making a legal U-turn at the time of the crash. Police ruled the motorcyclist’s speeding was to blame.

Californians must always be vigilant and aware of their surroundings on the road. At Gutierrez Law, our motorcycle accident attorney has helped multiple clients recover damages and resolve complex legal disputes. To schedule a consultation, call 323-999-3500 or email us at contact@gutierrez.legal.