Charles Idell Died In South Lake Tahoe Motorcycle Accident With Pickup Truck By The Intersection of Black Bart Avenue and Hank Monk Avenue
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CALIFORNIA (July 23, 2022) – A motorcyclist identified as Charles Idell has died in a South Lake Tahoe pickup truck accident by Black Bart Avenue and Hank Monk Avenue.
El Dorado County police officials are saying that the crash took place around 6:48 a.m. on Wednesday. Charles Idell was riding a Yamaha motorcycle when a Toyota pickup truck made a left turn directly in front of him.
The motorcyclist was ejected into the roadway and sustained serious injuries. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim.
Charles Idell was transported to the Barton Memorial Hospital with serious injuries. Despite the efforts of doctors and medical staff, he was pronounced dead at the hospital.
A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In South Lake Tahoe Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable to the reckless actions of other drivers. According to the National Safety Council, “Although motorcycles make up only 3% of all registered vehicles and 0.6% of all vehicle miles traveled in the United States, motorcyclists accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities, 18% of all occupant fatalities, and 4% of all occupant injuries in 2020. ” There are a number of steps that drivers should take in order to avoid hitting motorcyclists.
- Drivers should check their blind spots before making turns.
- Drivers should not follow motorcyclists at a distance more close than would be reasonable or safe.
- Drivers should abstain from alcohol and other intoxicating substances.
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. Many collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must first yield the right of way to any vehicle that is close enough so as to pose a hazard. If a driver makes an abrupt left turn in front of a motorcyclist, this could form the basis of a negligence claim.
Depending on the facts of any case, liability for any collision could extend beyond the at-fault driver. Pickup trucks are often used for commercial purposes. If the driver of a pickup truck was working at the time of a collision, the company that they were working for could be held at fault. Generally speaking, companies are liable for the wrongful actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course of their job duties. Victims of motorcycle accidents tend to suffer very serious and costly injuries including:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
The family of any motorcyclist killed in a car accident may have recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Sadly, insurance companies will often do everything in their power to deny responsibility for a collision. This is why it so crucial that all evidence is properly preserved after an accident .
Investigating A South Lake Tahoe Pickup Truck Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Charles Idell. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. This was a preventable tragedy that should not have taken place. It is our sincere hope that there is accountability for the sake of the victim’s family.
Do you need more information about a South Lake Tahoe car accident? Our team of motorcycle safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We are committed to helping accident victims understand their rights and holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
