Riding a motorcycle is an enjoyable past time for many South Carolina residents despite the dangers such as inattentive drivers who fail to keep a lookout for these smaller vehicles. Drivers and passengers on motorcycles can suffer a variety of injuries if involved in an accident. Head injuries, spinal cord injuries and broken bones can lead to life-altering disabilities or even death.
Recently, the South Carolina Highway Patrol responded to an accident involving a passenger vehicle and a motorcycle. The two people on the 2005 Harley Davidson were headed north on U.S. 17 at the time of the crash. Preliminary reports reveal that the 38-year-old driver of the car pulled out onto the highway into the path of the motorcycle.
The motorcycle driver attempted to avoid colliding with the car by laying down the bike. Unfortunately, these efforts did not keep the passenger from suffering injuries that ultimately took her life. The accident occurred on a Saturday, and the 57-year-old woman died the next morning. No information was provided regarding the injuries suffered by — or the current condition of — the driver of the motorcycle. The woman driving the car has so far been cited with failing to yield the right-of-way.
The Horry County Coroner reported that the victim died of head injuries suffered in the crash. As the victim’s family mourns her loss, they are also incurring financial losses associated with her premature death. A wrongful death claim may be filed against the party or parties deemed responsible for her death, which could result in a monetary judgment if it is proved that she died due to the negligence of another. Such an award, if granted, could help with the financial recovery from her loss.
Source: carolinalive.com, “Myrtle Beach woman killed in motorcycle crash, one charged“, Alex Heaton, April 19, 2015
Steven Krause is a personal injury, auto accident, and workers’ compensation lawyer who practices in Anderson, SC. He graduated form the Thomas M. Cooley School of Law and has been practicing law for 40 years now. Steven Krause believes in fighting for the injured. Learn more about his experience here.