A motorcyclist was killed as the result of being struck by a left-turning vehicle in Costa Mesa today. The accident happened just after 2 p.m. The motorcyclist, a male 20-year-old resident of Costa Mesa, was driving a 2004 Suzuki southbound on Fairview Rd. The driver of a 1998 Cadillac Deville was northbound on Fairview, turning left into the Villa Sienna Apartments, just north of Adams Ave.
The motorcyclist, whose name has not been released, slammed into the front of the Cadillac. The cyclist was reported to have suffered a broken neck and fractured skull. He was transported to Western Medical Center in Santa Ana, where he was pronounced dead.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash. Witnesses reported that the motorcyclist was speeding.
There is a rebuttable presumption that a left-turning driver is at fault for an accident. But the insurance carrier for a left-turning driver will often attempt to shift fault by claiming the other motorist was speeding. In such a case, the testimony of witnesses is critical. If video surveillance cameras captured the accident, it is important to obtain copies of the video right away before the footage is recorded over.
If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries as the result of an accident, you should seek the advice of a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
McGee, Lerer & Associates is a Long Beach accident firm which specializes in serious injury and death claims. An attorney at our firm is available 24-7 for a free consultation.