Motorcyclists ride unprotected in the open air and any mistake by a careless driver can put them at serious risk for devastating injuries. The tragic outcomes can be even more heartbreaking when the responsible driver in a collision decides to speed away from the scene to escape blame.
Merced County has its share of these sad accidents each year. In 2019, the county reported 141 collisions involving a hit-and-run driver. Two victims died in those crashes and another 182 victims suffered injuries.
Distracted drivers can have a lapse in judgment that can jeopardize the life of a motorcycle rider and then make another mistake by driving away.
Merced County Motorcycle Accident Severely Injures Rider
A hit-and-run driver is on the run from investigators after a motorcycle accident in Merced County badly injured a man on Tuesday. ABC30-TV reported the collision happened just east of Merced on Ashby Road at Beachwood Drive on November 3, 2020.
The California Highway Patrol says a 77-year-old motorcyclist was traveling along Ashby Road when a white Honda Prelude pulled out in front of him. The resulting crash threw the rider from his motorcycle. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
The CHP found that the driver of the Honda left the scene before they arrived. Investigators say witnesses watched as the driver returned shortly after the collision to pick-up part of the car’s bumper and then drove away again. If anyone has any information about the suspect they are asked to call the California Highway Patrol.
Support for Merced County Motorcycle Accident Victims
Hit-And-Run victims left at the scene of an accident can feel completely alone and betrayed. They may wonder how they’ll ever get justice after such a tragic incident.
The injuries may leave victims facing a long recovery. What’s more, those hurt in hit-and-runs could have to face massive hospital bills alone all while not being able to attend work to earn a paycheck.
In the event there’s good news and the hit-and-run driver is apprehended, victims can seek compensation immediately in the form of a civil lawsuit. This claim for damages would target the driver’s insurance coverage. The driver will also likely be facing criminal charges, but the criminal trial doesn’t affect your civil lawsuit. You or your attorney can file at any time.
If the hit-and-run driver is not found, victims may have to file a claim with their own car insurance policy. Their uninsured/underinsured coverage could provide money for hospital bills and living expenses as they recover. Compensation can vary though because even the victim’s own insurance agent can try to limit the money offered and pay victims less than needed for recovery.
Contact a Merced Motorcycle Accident Attorney
After a motorcycle accident involving a serious injury, riders must watch out for insurance companies that like to blame motorcyclists in every accident. To protect your rights contact an experienced Merced motorcycle accident lawyer such as Martin Gasparian for a free consultation and case evaluation. Mr. Gasparian takes a hands-on approach to every case. He believes that every client should work directly with their lawyer, get honest advice, and personalized attention to detail their case deserves.
