Many Oklahoma residents choose to ride motorcycles, whether just to and from work or school or to enjoy longer trips. For enthusiasts, motorcycles provide excitement and an exhilarating sense of freedom. They choose motorcycles even though most of them know that being on a motorcycle is more dangerous than being in a car, because they are exposed to the world and thus more prone to being severely injured in the event of an accident.
A 25-year-old Claremore man unfortunately died recently when his motorcycle collided with a minivan in an early morning accident. According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the man was riding his bike eastbound on Highway 66 about three miles northeast of Foyil around 7:00 a.m. when a westbound minivan pulled out in front of him, causing the motorcycle to strike the minivan. Ejected from his bike, the motorcyclist died at the scene. He was not wearing a helmet. The driver of the minivan, a 51-year-old man, was not injured.
This case clearly shows the devastation that is possible with any motorcycle accident. In an instant, this rider died as a direct result of the collision. This type of accident can be avoided if motor vehicle drivers check for motorcyclists all around their vehicles. For riders, it is important to wear protective gear – including helmets and other appropriate clothing – that can lessen the possibility of a serious injury in the event of a collision.
If an accident is the result of someone else’s carelessness or negligence, a motorcycle accident victim may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury suit. In the event of death, the family of a victim may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit that could help the family recover compensation and damages from the negligent party.
Source: Claremoreprogress.com, “Claremore man killed in motorcycle crash,” Mark Friedel, June 26, 2014
