Motorcyclist Killed in Santa Barbara County Accident
According to a report from the Santa Barbara Independent, a 22-year-old man was killed in a motorcycle collision in Santa Barbara County. The two-vehicle accident happened on a divided stretch of road. A spokesperson for law enforcement identified the victim of the tragic accident as Mikha Benedictus of Goleta, California. Here, our Santa Barbara motorcycle accident lawyer provides a more detailed overview of the crash and discusses the risk that motorcyclists face.
Fatal Santa Barbara County Motorcycle Crash “still Under Investigation”
A multi-vehicle motorcycle collision was reported to police on the evening of August 17th, 2021. The crash occurred on a stretch of Cathedral Oaks Road. When emergency first responders arrived at the wreck site, they found a red motorcycle wedged underneath a green Subaru. Tragically, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.
A representative of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office told reporters that the deadly motorcycle accident is still under investigation. Based on preliminary information, neither alcohol, drugs, nor distraction on the party of the Subaru are believed to be a factor. Anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to contact state or local law enforcement.
80% of Motorcycle Crashes Result in Injuries to The Rider
Motorcyclists are exposed to danger. While this is obvious, many people are unaware of the extent of the risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted a comprehensive analysis on motorcycle accidents. According to the federal agency's findings, “an astounding 80% of motorcycle crashes result in injury or death.” For reference, only 20% of car passenger car accidents result in injuries. Not only are motorcyclists more likely to be hurt in a crash, but these injuries are also far more likely to be serious or catastrophic. Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include:
Lacerations (road rash);
Biker's arm (nerve damage to the arm);
Soft tissue damage (whiplash);
Broken bones;
Back injuries;
Facial injuries;
Concussions/traumatic brain injuries (TBIs);
Internal bleeding;
Internal organ damage; and
Spinal cord damage.
All motorcycle accident injuries require immediate medical attention. By seeing a doctor as soon as possible after a motorcycle wreck, an injured rider will put themselves in a better position to make a full physical recovery. Some common injuries—including concussions, soft tissue damage, and back trauma—can arise with a delayed onset. A motorcyclist will only be eligible to recover financial compensation through a personal injury claim if they see a doctor.
Contact Our Santa Barbara, CA Motorcycle Accident Attorney for Immediate Help
At Andrade Law Offices, our Santa Barbara motorcycle accident lawyer is a skilled, reliable advocate for victims and their families. Our firm has the experience needed to protect the rights of injured motorcyclists. If you or your loved one was hurt in a motorcycle collision, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We handle motorcycle accident claims all over Santa Barbara County, including in Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, Goleta, and Lompoc.