California Injury Lawyer Blog

REDDING - The Record Searchlight reported a 67-year-old Redding man suffered serious injuries Sunday morning after his motorcycle was struck by a vehicle changing lanes. The major injury accident was reported around 10:35 a.m. on Sunday, February 5, 2012. According to news reports, the motorcyclist, Thomas Clifton, was entering Highway 44 from northbound Interstate 5, while at the same time, Dale Kortepeter, was merging from Hilltop Drive onto Highway 44 in his vehicle. Kortepeter changed lanes and collided with Clifton's bike.

The impact caused Clifton to lose control of his motorcycle and he was ejected. Clifton was taken to Mercy Medical Center with very serious injuries. The CHP reported it was very fortunate that Clifton was wearing a helmet. Earlier in the week, a Redding man was killed in a motorcycle accident when his helmet fell off when he crashed on Hartnell Avenue.

Cause of the Highway 44 Motorcycle Accident

The cause of the February 5th crash on Highway 44 remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol. Based on the limited details provided in news accounts, it is unclear how the fast the vehicles involved in the collision were travelling. If news reports are accurate, this accident was likely the result of unsafe merging. Under the California Vehicle Code Section 21658 (A), "A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from the lane until such movement can be made with reasonable safety."

Redding Motorcycle Accident Personal Injury Liability

Following a major injury motorcycle accident, the family members of the injured victim would be well-advised to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable Redding personal injury lawyer. An attorney who has successfully handled personal injury claims arising from northern California motorcycle accidents can advise the victim and his family their best course of action to protect their legal rights and recover the maximum compensation available for medical care, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages.