Volkswagen Atlas hit motorcycle near Hammond area, ejecting occupants.
November 10, 2025 | Hammond, LA
A tragic rear-end collision on Interstate 12 claimed the life of 76-year-old June Volkman from Zapata, Texas, according to Louisiana State Police.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon in the Hammond area of Tangipahoa Parish.
June Volkman, 76, of Zapata, Texas, was killed when a Volkswagen Atlas rear-ended her Harley Davidson on Interstate 12 in Hammond.
What Happened in the Crash?
Volkman was riding as a passenger on a 2015 Harley-Davidson motorcycle traveling eastbound on Interstate 12 around 3 p.m. A 2019 Volkswagen Atlas struck the motorcycle from behind for reasons still under investigation, ejecting both the passenger and the driver.
- Victim Details: June Volkman, 76, of Zapata, Texas – Pronounced dead at a local hospital from crash-related injuries.
- Driver of Motorcycle: Sustained moderate injuries and was transported for treatment.
- SUV Driver: Cited for following too closely by Louisiana State Police.
- Location: Interstate 12, Hammond area, Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana.
- Date and Time: November 10, 2025, approximately 3 p.m.
- Investigation Status: Ongoing by Louisiana State Police.
The crash highlights the dangers of tailgating, especially involving vulnerable motorcyclists.
Why Do Rear-End Motorcycle Crashes Happen?
Rear-end collisions often stem from driver errors such as following too closely, distracted driving, or misjudging speeds. Motorcycles' smaller size can make them harder to spot, increasing risks.
Safety data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) underscores the severity:
| Statistic | Details | Source |
|---|
| Motorcycle Fatalities | Accounted for 15% of all motor vehicle crash deaths in 2023 | IIHS |
| Common Causes | Tailgating, blind spots, inexperience | National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
| Vulnerable Road Users | Motorcyclists lack protective enclosures, amplifying injury risks even at low speeds | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
These figures emphasize the need for greater awareness and adherence to safe following distances.
Legal Insights from Newsline Analysts
Newsline, features insights from experienced national legal analysts to provide clarity on complex incidents like this.
“Motorcyclists are arguably the most vulnerable motorists on the road,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal and a national legal analyst for Newsline. “Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, riders face extreme risks in even low-speed collisions. In cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted by a seasoned lawyer to protect the rights of those affected.”
Key takeaways from analyst:
- Independent Probes Essential: Blind spots, distracted drivers, and traffic law violations often contribute; legal advocates ensure accountability.
- Victim Rights Protection: Families deserve compassionate guidance during investigations to safeguard legal interests.
- Broader Implications: These crashes highlight systemic road safety issues, urging stricter enforcement.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” noted Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal and a national legal analyst for Newsline. “Having rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer can help ensure that legal rights and best interests are upheld through the official investigation.”
Wrongful Death and Family Support
Pending the ongoing investigation, the family of June Volkman may pursue a wrongful death claim for damages including loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
For those affected by similar incidents, Newsline encourages consulting legal professionals experienced in catastrophic accidents. Our platform prioritizes empowering readers with reliable information from sources like the CDC and NHTSA.
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Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).