Gregg Haskell, 57, was killed in a motorcycle accident in the Modesto area after he lost control of his 2004 Harley-Davidson and crashed, the Modesto Bee reports. The fatal motorcycle crash occurred the evening of May 12, 2010 when Haskell was riding his motorcycle east on Orange Blossom Road near Horseshoe Road. California Highway Patrol officials said Haskell drifted off the road and into the dirt shoulder as he rode through a moderate curve. The motorcycle hit the curb and Haskell was ejected from his bike. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he died.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Gregg Haskell for their profound loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones.

Motorcycle Accidents

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were two deaths and 55 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Modesto. In Stanislaus County, 10 people died and 137 were injured as a result of motorcycle accidents during the same year.

Accident Causes

Based on this news report, it is unclear as to what caused this tragic accident. The news report does not state that Haskell was traveling at a high rate of speed. Did alcohol play a part? Was there a vehicle defect or mechanical malfunction in his Harley that caused this fatal crash? Was any other vehicle involved in this crash? Was there a dangerous or defective condition in the roadway, which may have caused this deadly accident? I trust officials are looking into these and other factors in order to determine what exactly happened here.

Liability Issues

If this accident was caused by an auto product defect, the vehicle manufacturer or the maker of the defective product can be held liable for Haskell's wrongful death. Such claims, which are usually filed by immediate family members, seek compensation to cover medical or funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

If a dangerous or defective roadway caused or contributed to this crash, the governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could also be held liable. Under California Government Code section 911.2, any claim against a public entity must be filed within six months of the accident or injury. The best Modesto personal injury lawyers will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.

What steps do you take as a motorcycle rider to avoid dangerous situations or accidents?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.