Deadly collision happened near Barstow and Sunnyside Avenues, authorities say
CLOVIS, CA, (August 28, 2024) - A Wednesday morning crash in Clovis claimed the life of a motorcyclist and led to the arrest of a woman accused of driving under the influence, police said.
A motorcycle operator was killed after colliding with a vehicle whose driver, according to preliminary reports, was impaired. The incident happened Wednesday morning in Clovis.
The bike rider, whose identity was not revealed, died as a result of injuries.
According to preliminary reports, the incident happened near Barstow and Sunnyside Avenues at about 11 a.m. when Tammera Pittman pulled out her SUV in front of the motorcycle, resulting in a collision. The motorcycle operator was headed westbound on Barstow, police said.
Pittman, 57, was arrested after the crash and booked into the Fresno County Jail.
The investigation is still underway.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
Drinking and driving is an act that has invariably put other motorists at risk and, in this case, tragically ended the life of a motorcycle rider.
“Motorcyclists are arguably the most vulnerable motorists on the road,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal.
In 2017, 5,172 motorcyclists died in motorcycle crashes, down 3 percent from 5,337 in 2016, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Bond, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, noted that in cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent investigation into the crash conducted by a seasoned lawyer to protect the rights of the victim's family.
“Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide a family during this difficult time while ensuring that a driver is held accountable if they do not obey traffic laws.”
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the investigation, the family members of the motorcyclist may be entitled to a wrongful death claim. Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a catastrophic accident.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, Of Counsel with Bond Legal.
“A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that the victim's legal rights and best interests are protected.”
Newsline's national legal analysts Candice Bond and Stefano Formica are experienced in motorcycle accidents, and if you or a family member need help they are available for a free consultation to guide you
(Candice Bond, Managing Partner, and Stefano Formica, Of Counsel, at Bond Legal, are the national legal analysts for Newsline. 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).