Discovering the “how” of an accident is often easier than determining the “why.” Whether it takes place here in Ohio or somewhere else, this can plague numerous investigations. The factors that led to a car or motorcycle crash could help determine liability and/or if the situation warrants criminal charges.
Of course, sometimes, understanding the whole story is out of reach, at least temporarily. This could be the case in a recent accident responded to by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Preliminary reports indicate that a motorcycle attempted to pass a couple of vehicles without first making sure the way was clear and slammed into the back of a vehicle that was attempting to turn left.
The occupants of the pickup truck that was turning left walked away without injury, but the 61-year-old rider and passenger of the motorcycle did not escape as easily. The rider succumbed to fatal injuries at the scene, and his passenger suffered serious but unknown injuries for which emergency medical personnel transported to her the hospital via helicopter. At last report, investigators were still attempting to determine what factors contributed to the crash. They had not yet ruled out alcohol or drugs.
The conclusion of the investigation into this motorcycle crash could help the injured passenger in any attempt to pursue restitution for the injuries suffered. In order to prevail in an personal injury claim, the victim must prove negligence or recklessness on the part of the person or persons believed at fault. In that pursuit, both the “how” and “why” could make a difference between success and failure.
