Ojai, CA (November 10, 2023) James Arthur Dalton, a Ventura resident, was killed on October 16th when his motorcycle collided, head-on, with an SUV. The passenger on his motorcycle was injured in this crash, according to authorities. The fatal collision occurred on Highway 50 near Lake Casitas, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Dalton was described as being in his early 50s. He was driving a 2004 Harley Davidson east on Highway 150 when he suddenly veered into the westbound lane of traffic. A 2019 Land Rover SUV was heading west and the two collided on the highway.
Emergency crews arrived at the scene to find Dalton on the ground, unresponisive. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene and called a coroner to come to the accident site.
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The passenger on his motorcycle was a 36-year-old woman, also from Ventura. Though she survived the collision, she sustained a broken arm and fractured ribs, according to a California Highway Patrol news release. Paramedics took her to a local hospital via ambulance to receive treatment for her injuries.
It is unknown if the driver of the SUV was injured in this collision. They cooperated with police officers following the collision.
Authorities called for tow trucks to come to the scene and remove the badly damaged motorcycle. Crews cleaned up debris from the road as officers investigated the scene for evidence. They do not know why Dalton crossed over into oncoming traffic. The collision remains under investigation.
Liability In Ojai 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 that 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 Ojai Motorcycle Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of James Arthur Dalton 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 that 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.