California Injury Blog
A motorcyclist suffered major injuries in a Riverside car accident after being hit by a left-turning vehicle.
According to a news report in The Press-Enterprise, the crash occurred on San Sevaine Way west of Wacker Driver the afternoon of June 30, 2014.
The motorcycle was traveling west on San Sevaine Way when it collided with the car, which was making a left turn into a business lot.
The motorcyclist was
transported to a local hospital and underwent surgery. The driver of the car refused medical treatment and was released. No arrests and citations were reported. The investigation is ongoing.
It is a relief that the motorcyclist did not suffer life-threatening injuries in this crash. We wish the injured victim the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Motorcycle Crash Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2011 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), one person died and five were injured as a result of motorcycle accidents in Jurupa Valley.
In Riverside County as a whole, 18 people died and 533 were injured due to motorcycle accidents during the same year.
Left Turn Law
Based on this news report, it appears that the collision with the motorcycle occurred when the car was making a left turn at the intersection.
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.”
Liability Issues
In such cases, it must be determined if the driver failed to yield the right of way to the motorcyclist. If the driver was at fault, he or she could be held liable for the injuries and damages caused.
Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, permanent injuries, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Injured victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced Riverside personal injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.