El Cajon, CA (November 30, 2023) 26-year-old Austin Spirz was killed while riding his motorcycle on Thanksgiving Day, authorities said. The tragic collision occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Sheridan Road, near Custer Road. The California Highway Patrol said they arrested Gary Baker, 45, following the collision.
According to initial reports from the California Highway Patrol, a Jeep was traveling west and drifted over the double yellow lines, into oncoming traffic. Spirz was riding a motorcycle, heading east at the exact same time. The Jeep Crashed into the motorcycle, head-on. Baker fled the scene following the collision.
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Emergency personnel arrived at the scene and found the Spirz on the ground. Paramedics rushed to perform life-saving techniques, but unfortunately, Austin Spirz was pronounced dead at the scene. His family told authorities that he was a father of three young daughters, who lost their father due to this fatal crash.
Deputy District Attorney Mei Owen said that Baker’s girlfriend call the California Highway Patrol the following day and reported that her boyfriend, Gary Baker, had been in an accident while driving her Jeep the day before.
Baker told authorities that he was struck by large rocks while driving, according to Owen. However, officers found pieces of Spirz’s motorcycle at Baker’s home. He was arrested and booked into custody on a $50,000 bail, that is possibly going to be raised due to Baker’s alleged out-of-state ties.
Who Is Responsible In El Cajon Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcyclists have a naturally small profile and are more likely to be overlooked by other drivers. Many collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous lane changes. According to California Vehicle Code 22107, “No person shall turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway until such movement can be made with reasonable safety and then only after the giving of an appropriate signal in the manner provided in this chapter in the event any other vehicle may be affected by the movement.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a motorcycle accident including:
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Driver distraction
- Inclement weather
The family of any victim who died in a motorcycle accident may be able to seek aid 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 unique 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 An El Cajon Motorcycle Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to Austin Spirz’s family during this difficult time of loss. Anyone who may have additional information regarding this case should reach out to us. A full investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Have you or someone you care about been injured in a car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to help in any way that we can. We are committed to helping accident victims get the information and support that they deserve. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965 or on our contact form at Accident News Now.
