Los Angeles Man Killed In Motorcycle Crash Near Point Mugu State Beach
VENTURA COUNTY - A 24-year-old Los Angeles man tragically was killed Monday afternoon when his motorcycle was struck by a car driven by a 37-year-old Oxnard woman, the Ventura County Star reported. The fatal motorcycle accident occurred on the Pacific Coast Highway at about 1:30 p.m. on July 4, 2011, near Point Mugu State Beach. The motorcyclist, Water Gutierrez, was riding southbound on PCH when a vehicle driven by Mindee Martinez pulled out of the beach parking lot in front of his motorcycle. Gutierrez died at the scene of the crash.
Cause of the Fatal Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents frequently occur because drivers are simply not looking for motorcyclists. Accidents where drivers fail to see a motorcyclist are heartbreaking and devastating, and raise a number of questions - most importantly, why did the driver not see the motorcyclist? The cause of this fatal motorcycle accident remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol. The CHP reported that drugs or alcohol did not appear to be a factor. Based on the news reports, it is unclear why the driver pulled out in front of Gutierrez's motorcycle. Hopefully, the CHP investigation will reveal exactly what happened, and who was responsible.
Motorcycle Accident Wrongful Death Liability
Depending on the unique circumstances of this July 4th accident, if the driver of the car is determined to be responsible, she may be liable for the wrongful death of the motorcyclist in a civil claim. If negligence of the driver was a factor, the family of the victim may pursue a claim for damages, including funeral and burial expenses, lost earnings and benefits, and loss of love, care, affection and companionship. While this accident remains under investigation, the family members of the victim may benefit from speaking with an experienced and knowledgeable California motorcycle accident lawyer. A skilled attorney who understands the complex legal issues of car vs. motorcycle accidents can advise the victim's family of their legal rights and best course of action should they wish to pursue a wrongful death claim.
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