A number of motorcycle accidents occur at intersections, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Most of these street intersection accidents occur when one of the vehicles is making a left turn. A similar accident in Victorville proved fatal for 39-year-old motorcyclist Mario Dudley, who was struck by a driver making a left turn at the intersection of Bear Valley Road and Cantina Drive. The Riverside Press Enterprise reports that Dudley died of his injuries on April 19, 2010, shortly after the collision. The driver of the pickup truck, Edward Munoz, made a sudden turn ahead of Dudley's motorcycle, officials say.

My heart goes out to everybody who knew and loved Dudley for their devastating loss. This grieving family will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Accident Statistics

There were 16 deaths and 266 injuries involving car accidents in Victorville, According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In San Bernardino County, 263 deaths and 8,504 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents during the same year.

The Law Relating to Left Turns

If the details of this news report are accurate, it appears that the driver of the pickup truck may have failed to yield right-of-way to the motorcyclist. I trust officials are also looking into whether Munoz was under the influence, distracted or driving recklessly at the time.

California law is very specific about the requirements for drivers making a left turn or a U-turn. California Vehicle Code section 21801 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety."

Wrongful Death

An experienced California personal injury lawyer will be able to advise families of injured victims about their legal rights and options. If there was negligence or wrongdoing involved, family members can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

Do you feel safe riding on our roadways? What are the main dangers you face, from other vehicles on the roadway, as a motorcyclist?

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.