Todd Coursey, of Moorpark, Died In Somis Car Accident While Riding Motorcycle By East Los Angeles Avenue and Bradley Road
VENTURA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA (April 21, 2022) – A motorcyclist identified as Todd Coursey has tragically died in a Somis car accident near the intersection of Highway 118 and Bradley Road.
Ventura County police officials are saying that the accident took place around 9:10 a.m. on Monday. Todd Coursey was riding a motorcycle when the driver of a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 made a left turn in front of him.
The motorcyclist could not avoid the collision and was ejected into the roadway. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim.
Despite life-saving measures, Todd Coursey died at the scene. A full investigation into the collision remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In Somis Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists are uniquely vulnerable in collisions. According to the Insurance Information Institute, motorcycle riders were nearly 29 times more likely to die per vehicle mile traveled than a passenger in a car. Helmet use is absolutely essential for every motorcycle rider. The NHTSA estimates that nearly 2,000 lives are saved every year by motorcyclists wearing helmets. There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a motorcycle accident.
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Inclement weather
- Driver distraction
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid collisions. Many collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns in the roadway. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of a motor vehicle intending to turn left or to complete a U-turn on a highway must yield the right of way to any vehicle traveling from the opposite direction that are close enough to pose a hazard. Drivers that make unprotected left turns in front of vehicles will typically be held liable in the event of an accident.
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. Pickup trucks are often used for commercial purposes such as landscaping, transportation or construction. In general, companies will be vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are many steps that should be taken after any car accident.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- All vehicles involved should be examined.
- Medical records should be preserved.
When a driver is negligent and kills a motorcyclist, they can be held accountable through a civil claim. The family of the victim may be able to seek some measure of justice through a wrongful death claim. Damages can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are. There are, however, statute of limitations associated with civil claims. Failing to act within the statute of limitations may result in a permanent forfeiture of your rights.
Investigating A Ventura County Motorcycle Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Todd Coursey. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be a thorough investigation for the sake of the victim’s family. It is our sincere hope that officials will examine this intersection and look into measures that can be taken to make it safer.
Do you need more information about a Somis motorcycle accident? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of consumer safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
