Michael Williams Dead, Angela Friar Hurt in Lubbock, TX, Accident
Lubbock, TX -- January 29, 2017, Michael Williams was killed, Angela Friar injured, in an accident where their motorcycle collided with a pickup.
Preliminary investigations from the Lubbock Police Department indicate that 52-year-old Williams was driving a motorcycle southbound on North University Road at around 11:00 p.m. Friar was a passenger on the motorcycle.
As the motorcycle passed Clovis Road, a northbound pickup attempted to turn left, entering the path of the motorcycle. A collision occurred between the two vehicles, ejecting both riders onto the roadway.
Both Williams and Friar were seriously injured. Williams died at the scene. Friar was taken to a nearby hospital with critical injuries. The driver of the pickup was not injured, but two passengers from his vehicle had moderate injuries.
Authorities say the pickup failed to yield the right of way to the motorcyclist, but it's unclear if any charges or citations are being considered.
Investigations are ongoing.
Map of the Area
Commentary
Reports regarding this accident appear to be pretty clear that the pickup failed to yield to the motorcycle's right of way, but I can't help but think about the complexities that often follow motorcycle accidents. What many people may not realize is that the general public actually holds a negative bias against motorcyclists, and this can often make things challenging for victims and their families seeking compensation after a crash. Without the right knowledge and experience, this can create significant barriers for those affected by an accident.
When most people think of a motorcyclist, they envision someone who is driving at high speeds, weaving in and out of traffic, and barreling down the shoulder of the highway. It's something we've all seen, but it's a minority representation of the typical motorcyclists. Most motorcyclists are responsible drivers who follow the rules of the road. However, the reputation given to them by a few bad apples makes it easier for insurance companies to try and avoid liability following an accident.
Insurance companies often attempt to avoid liability or minimize their losses by shifting blame for the accident onto the victim. For example, they could say, "well sure my driver ran a red light, but the victim was speeding, therefore contributing to their own death." This kind of thing happens all the time, and the unfortunate truth is that many people will believe this when a motorcyclist is involved. However, with the proper evidence, this kind of strategy can be countered.
By having an independent investigation conducted by a 3rd party, victims and their families can ensure that all necessary details are extensively examined. With all necessary information at hand, insurance companies can't bend truths or lie in order to influence opinions in their favor. Evidence speaks volumes, so the best way to overcome a jury's potential bias is to show them cold hard facts. In doing this, insurance companies can't use people's negative biases to their advantage, and victims and their families have a fair chance at getting the compensation they deserve.
--Grossman Law Offices
[jump]