Justin Palmer, 47, suffered fatal injuries in a motorcycle accident after an SUV making a left turn struck him at a street intersection in Rancho Cucamonga.
According to a KTLA news report, the fatal incident occurred near Arrow Route and Hermosa Avenue the morning of Dec. 17. Police said Palmer was awake and responsive at the scene, but succumbed to his injuries after being taken to a local hospital.
Ongoing Investigation
The driver of the SUV, a 56-year-old La Verne man, made a left turn in front of Palmer’s motorcycle before the collision, police said. The driver of the SUV remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation, they said. Anyone with more information about this fatal motorcycle crash is asked to contact the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department at 909-477-2800. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Justin Palmer for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the SUV made a left turn and collided with the oncoming motorcyclist. Under California law, motorists are required to yield the right of way to oncoming vehicles before making a left turn or U-turn.
California Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a) states: “The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety.”
In such cases, if the driver is determined to have been negligent, he or she can be held liable for the victim’s wrongful death. Families of deceased crash victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against at-fault parties seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering, and loss of love, care, and companionship.
An experienced San Bernardino County motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/motorcyclist-fatally-injured-in-rancho-cucamonga-crash-rancho-cucamonga-police-department/