Not only is our area blessed with wonderful local wineries, we are also blessed with some of the most beautiful natural views in the entire country. This is why it is no wonder that motorcycles are so popular across the Temecula area. Unfortunately, since motorcyclists have less protection than vehicle drivers, motorcycle accidents are often serious. One local area man is dealing with this nightmare scenario, exacerbated by the fact that he was seriously injured in a hit-and-run.
The accident
The accident occurred last Friday to a 44-year-old Murrieta motorcyclist on I-15 in North County San Diego. The motorcyclist was riding southbound when he was impacted by a small brown SUV. The SUV veered into the motorcyclist lane, before 7:00 a.m., according to the California Highway Patrol.
The impact sent the motorcyclist and his bike tumbling down the roadway, while the SUV fled the scene. First responders rushed him to the Palomar Medical Center. Luckily, the motorcyclist’s injures are not life threatening, but the medical center described the local’s injuries and major.
Based on witnesses and vehicle parts left on the highway, CHP stated that the SUV was likely a 2014 or later model, Kia Soul. The brown Kia Soul will have driver’s side damage and a missing or sheared side mirror. And, since this is a hit-and-run, CHP is seeking the public’s help in finding the Kia Soul and its driver.
The options after a motorcycle accident
In this case, fault may not be an issue because the driver, if found, will likely face jail time for causing this accident and for fleeing the accident scene. This will make bringing a personal injury lawsuit against the Kia Soul driver much easier.
While the justice system will give the motorcyclist some justice, the civil, personal injury lawsuit will allow him to recoup his damages and payment for his pain and suffering. This will be especially important if his major injuries turn into a disabling injury.
In the interim, he should seek counsel from an attorney and contact his own motorcycle insurance. Depending on his insurance, he may have coverage for this to help cover until he can recoup his costs from the negligent driver. His attorney can also help navigate the insurance process while preparing for the case in the future.
