Motorcyclist Killed in Los Angeles Car Accident
A motorcyclist who was fatally injured in a Los Angeles car accident the evening of February 22, 2010, has been identified as 33-year-old Alfredo Gonzalez. According to a news report in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune, the fatal motorcycle accident occurred at the intersection of Badillo Street and Sunset Avenue in an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County. Gonzalez was riding a 2004 Suzuki motorcycle when he struck a 1992 Honda Accord at the middle of the street intersection. California Highway Patrol officials say the accident occurred when Gonzalez was attempting to make a left turn at the intersection.
My heart goes out to the family of Alfredo Gonzalez for their tragic loss. I pray for his family members during their time of grief.
Motorcycle Accidents
There were 25 fatalities and 505 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, according to CHP's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Los Angeles County as a whole, 114 fatalities and 2,934 injuries were reported as a result of motorcycle accidents in 2008.
Car Accident Laws
California law is very specific about the requirements for drivers making a left turn or a 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."
Fault and Liability
The question in such cases is: Who was at fault? When it comes to accidents that occur at intersections, investigators will usually look into whether one of the motorists failed to yield right-of-way or ran a red light. Then, there is the question of negligence. Was one of the drivers impaired, distracted or speeding through the intersection?
An experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney will examine all facets of the incident and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable and the injured victims or families receive just compensation for their damages and losses.
We are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not a fault" persons named in this article and their family members.
