A motorcycle accident in Long Beach proved fatal for 26-year-old Jose Bazen, 26, according to a news report in the Contra Costa Times. Long Beach police officials said Bazen was riding his 2000 Honda CVR 900 west on Market Street on May 20, 2010, when he tried to make a left turn on Walnut Avenue. He then collided with a 1994 Cadillac DeVille, whose driver officials say, failed to yield right-of-way to the motorcyclist.

The driver of that vehicle has been identified as 41-year-old Shelley Bryant. Officers say the Cadillac pulled right in front of the motorcycle at the street intersection and may have caused the fatal collision. However, it is not yet clear if Bryant will face criminal charges. An investigation is ongoing.

My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Jose Bazen for their tragic and devastating loss. They will be in my prayers.

Long Beach Car Accidents

There were 27 deaths and 1,881 injuries involving car accidents in Long Beach, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Los Angeles County, 667 people died and 52,229 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents in 2008.

Laws and Liability Issues

California Vehicle Code section 21800 (a): "The driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from a different highway." If Bryant did not yield right-of-way to the oncoming motorcyclist, as officials suspect, she could be held criminally and civilly liable for Bazens's wrongful death. In such cases, it would in the best interests of victims' families to contact an experienced Long Beach personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all aspects of the incident and make sure that the negligent parties are held liable.

A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether a dangerous condition on the roadway caused or contributed to this collision. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. Please remember that any claim against a California governmental entity must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.

What are some of the most dangerous intersections for motorcyclists in your city?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.