California Injury Blog
A 29-year-old man was fatally injured in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident in Adelanto on the night of April 27.
According to a KTLA news report, the fatal crash occurred at the intersection of Palmdale Road and Pearmain Street. San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department officials said Leejon Tolliver, a 34-year-old Adelanto resident, was driving a silver 2014 Dodge Durango when he turned onto Palmdale Road in front of the motorcyclist driving a 2021 Harley-Davidson Street Bob.
Arrest Made in Hit and Run
After the collision, the motorcyclist, who has not been identified, was transported to an area hospital, where he was pronounced deceased due to injuries suffered in the crash. Tolliver fled the scene of the crash but was taken into custody shortly afterward. He has been charged with felony hit-and-run, officials said.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family of this deceased motorcyclist for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. They will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the SUV made a turn in front of the oncoming motorcyclist, which is illegal under California law. California Vehicle Code Section 21950 (a) states that motorists who are about to make a left turn or U-turn should wait for approaching vehicles to pass before they make the turn. Failure to yield the right of way is one of the most common causes of fatal motorcycle accidents.
In this particular case, the driver of the SUV failed to stop and render aid to the injured motorcyclist, which is a violation of California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a). California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: “The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.”
Hit-and-run victims or families of those killed in hit-and-run crashes may be able to seek compensation through the uninsured motorist clause of their auto insurance policies. In addition, they may also be able to seek compensation from the at-fault driver. An experienced San Bernardino car 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-killed-in-adelanto-hit-and-run-sheriffs-department/