A motorcyclist was killed after a traffic collision involving a minivan in Petaluma on Friday evening, July 14, 2023.
The Petaluma Police received several reports regarding the collision at approximately 6:51 p.m. near Linnet Lane on Sonoma Mountain Parkway.
According to the report, the collision involved a motorcycle and a minivan. Tragically, the motorcyclist’s injuries were fatal, and they passed away at the scene.
The police will only disclose the individual’s identity once the county coroner’s office notifies the family.
The cause of the collision is under investigation, and according to the police, there is no indication that alcohol played a role in the incident.
Our Sonoma County Injury Law Firm Specializing in Motorcycle Accidents
Individuals impacted by a motorcycle accident experience physical and emotional challenges and financial consequences like decreased productivity and medical costs. Recognizing the financial implications of these incidents is essential.
In cases where you or a loved one has been injured or lost your life in a motorcycle crash, there could be possibilities for seeking compensation. Skilled attorneys specializing in motorcycle accidents meticulously assess each situation and work to obtain equitable settlements for their clients by pursuing legal action through state civil courts.
You can rely on our most trusted Sonoma County motorcycle accident lawyers at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings. Our firm has recovered more than $500 Million for California clients.
If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can be distressing and unsettling. Riders injured or experienced property damage should promptly seek legal guidance to protect their rights. To safeguard your interests, follow these essential steps:
- Keep calm and do not admit fault.
- Check your body for injuries. Examine the condition of the other individuals involved.
- You should wait on the side of the road or in a safe place until the authorities arrive.
- Do not try to resolve the conflict with the other driver. Inform the police of the collision and request a copy of the official report.
- Gather information such as the other driver’s name and insurance provider.
- Take pictures of everything you think is essential, including the scene, the road, your injuries, the other car, and your motorcycle.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Keep a file with all accident-related paperwork and information.
- Discuss your accident with an experienced California motorcycle accident lawyer.
Fatal Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Motorcycle accidents constituted a notable portion of traffic-related fatalities, accounting for 14% of all traffic deaths and 17% of occupant fatalities in 2021. Additionally, 3% of occupant injuries were linked to motorcycle crashes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data from 2020, the United States reported more than 5,500 motorcycle fatalities, with over 180,000 motorcycle accidents causing injuries that required treatment in emergency departments.
Comparing 2020 and 2021, there was an 8% increase in motorcycle fatalities. Over the past decade, motorcycle-related deaths have surged by 19%, and the death rate has risen by 29%. This death rate is 5,932, translating to approximately 30.05 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles.
California, which had approximately 785,000 registered motorcycles in 2020, ranked as one of the two states with the highest rates of motorcycle fatalities. With an annual average of around 500 motorcycle fatalities, these accidents have significantly impacted the state.