Motorcycle rider struck tow truck that was backing into private driveway near Hayes Road
April 11, 2026 | Barkhamsted, CT
A tragic collision in Barkhamsted claimed the life of 27-year-old Matthew William Sherwood from Wolcott.
The incident occurred on East Hartland Road when his motorcycle struck a tow truck.
Matthew William Sherwood, 27, died after a Kenworth tow truck backed into his motorcycle on Route 179 near Hayes Road in Barkhamsted.
What Happened in the Crash?
Connecticut State Police reported that Sherwood was riding southbound on Route 179 at around 3:43 p.m. on a Saturday. The motorcycle collided with the front of a Kenworth tow truck that was backing into a private driveway near Hayes Road.
Key details include:
- Victim: Matthew William Sherwood, 27, of Wolcott
- Vehicles Involved: Motorcycle and Kenworth tow truck
- Location: East Hartland Road (Route 179) near Hayes Road, Barkhamsted, CT
- Time: Approximately 3:43 p.m.
- Outcome: Sherwood was transported to Winsted Medical Center, where he succumbed to injuries
- Other Party: The tow truck driver declined medical attention
Authorities are investigating the circumstances and urge witnesses to call 860-626-1820 with any information.
Why Do These Motorcycle Accidents Occur?
Motorcycle crashes with large vehicles like tow trucks often result in severe consequences due to the weight disparity. A typical tow truck can exceed 35,000 pounds, making collisions devastating for riders.
According to the Connecticut Department of Transportation, motorcycle fatalities remain a pressing issue in the state.
Year |
Motorcycle Fatalities in Connecticut |
|---|
2023 |
59 |
Average Annual |
Over 50 |
Data sourced from the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) highlights the need for vigilance on roads shared by motorcycles and heavy machinery.
Legal Insights
National legal analyst Andrew G. Finkelstein, managing partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices, emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations in motor vehicle accidents.
"It is essential to reconstruct the accident to identify all the vehicles involved and determine the circumstances that led to the accident or the driver at fault. In cases such as this, insurance companies are never on the side of a victim injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident."
Key takeaways:
- Hiring an experienced attorney can help secure up to three and a half times more compensation, per the Insurance Research Institute.
- Avoid giving statements to insurers immediately after a crash, as shock may impact your case.
- Competent legal guidance protects rights and ensures a full accident reconstruction.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
Families affected by such tragedies may pursue wrongful death claims to seek compensation for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
"People who get into a motorcycle accident suffer unimaginable consequences in the form of mental and physical pain, and, in cases of fatalities, the victim's family and loved ones are left devastated," noted Finkelstein.
Legal representation is crucial to navigate these claims effectively and hold parties accountable.
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Newsline''s national legal analyst Andrew G. Finkelstein has experience with motorcycle accident cases. If you or a loved one need help, he’s available for a free consultation to offer guidance.
(Andrew G. Finkelstein, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices to help you, please call 855-976-8163 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).