Now that spring weather is here to stay, motorists in Montana and other states across the nation can expect to share the road with motorcyclists on a regular basis. Whether it is a single biker traveling on his or her own, or a group of bikers, drivers are expected to use care and caution when operating their vehicles around motorcyclists. This means double-checking mirrors and blind spots, looking for motorcyclists when crossing a road or turning onto a road, and ensuring that they are not traveling too closely to a biker. Failure to uphold this duty of care could result in a serious motorcycle collision, as evidenced by one recent wreck.
Based on recent reports, a fatal motorcycle crash happened on the Billings West End. A 30-year-old man was killed in a crash that involved a pickup truck. According to the Montana Highway Patrol, the collision occurred when the pickup that was traveling northbound on 56th Street West failed see the motorcyclist that was approaching 56th Street West on King Avenue.
Authorities believe that speed played a role in the crash. It was further noted that at the scene of the crash there was a stoplight for drivers traveling on 56th Street. While the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet at the item of the crash, this did not protect him from the fatal injuries he suffered in the crash.
The investigation is still ongoing, but the Montana Highway Patrol stated that they do not believe that alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash. At this time, it is unclear whether the driver of the pickup is facing any charges or citations resulting from the crash. Nonetheless, once the investigation is complete, authorities will be able to determine the cause of the crash and even assign fault.
When a negligent driver causes a fatal crash, loved ones of the deceased have recourses available to them. A wrongful death claim could help family members hold a negligent driver liable for a fatal crash and its corresponding damages. This, in turn, could help them pay off unexpected medical expense and funeral costs, and recoup lost wages.