On behalf of Weisman, Kennedy & Berris Co., L.P.A. posted in Car Accidents on Monday, June 17, 2013.

Because they are smaller than most cars and trucks, motorcycles pose more risks than other types of motor vehicles. For this reason, all Ohio drivers must be especially careful to check for motorcycles. Failure to do so can cause serious, and even fatal, car accidents.

The driver who allegedly killed a motorcyclist has apparently made a pattern of fleeing the scene of accidents he has caused. In the most recent incident, the man was allegedly involved in an altercation with his girlfriend. A witnesses said that the man stormed to his truck and angrily started it, apparently without taking a moment to check for pedestrians or other vehicles. Although the witness noticed that the victim was in harm’s way, there was apparently not enough time for the witness to warn the motorcyclist. The truck hit the motorcyclist, and the victim crashed into a van; emergency responders were unable to rescue him.

Unfortunately, this man has caused accidents before. It is not clear how many of those accidents have proven fatal. Because the witness will likely testify in court, the man will likely face serious consequences for his careless driving. He may also face domestic violence charges. Although the man allegedly has a history of drunk driving, it is unknown whether his driver’s license was in good standing at the time of the accident. There is no evidence that he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol when he hit the motorcyclist.

When people lose a loved on in a fatal car accident, it is often devastating. Fortunately, the family members of victims may be entitled to compensation. Working with an attorney can be helpful in these circumstances.

Source: Wood TV, “Witness details fatal hit-and-run crash,” Ken Kolker, June 10, 2013