The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified the motorcyclist killed in a recent crash on Highway 178 as 55-year-old Christopher Daniel Bermudez of Ridgecrest.
What Happened During the Ridgecrest Motorcycle Accident
According to the coroner’s report, the crash occurred on September 13 at approximately 7:30 p.m. Bermudez was riding his motorcycle when it collided with a vehicle near the intersection of Highway 178 and Pinto Street in China Lake Acres.
Bermudez died at the scene of the crash.
Motorcycle Accidents on Kern County Highways
Highway 178 is a rural corridor that runs through remote stretches of Kern County, connecting Bakersfield to communities like Ridgecrest and China Lake Acres. Higher speeds, limited lighting after dark, and intersections without traffic signals can all increase the risk of serious collisions on this stretch of road.
Motorcyclists face a heightened risk of catastrophic injury or death in any collision with a passenger vehicle, since they have far less protection than someone inside a car or truck.
Determining Fault After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash
Investigations into fatal motorcycle collisions typically look at factors such as:
- Right-of-way violations at intersections
- Speed and visibility conditions at the time of the crash
- Whether either driver was distracted or impaired
- Roadway design and signage in the area
Families who lose a loved one in a motorcycle crash may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver, depending on the findings of the investigation.
Speak With a Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been affected by a bike accident in Kern County, our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys from Attorney Jeff are available to review the circumstances of the crash and explain your legal options. Contact our law offices today for a free consultation.