An 88-year-old Barrie man has been charged following a fatal Barrie motorcycle accident that claimed the life of a motorcyclist. According to reports, Barrie Police laid a charge of careless driving causing death on August 11 as part of their investigation into the fatal collision.
The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. The charge comes after police continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. As with any criminal or provincial offence charge, the allegation has not been proven in court.
This fatal motorcycle collision in Barrie is a reminder of how vulnerable riders are on Ontario roads. Motorcyclists have far less physical protection than people inside passenger vehicles. Even one mistake can lead to catastrophic or fatal injuries.
Anyone with information or relevant dashcam footage should contact Barrie Police. Evidence from witnesses can help investigators understand exactly how a serious collision occurred.
Why Are Motorcycle Accidents So Dangerous?
Motorcycles are smaller than most other vehicles. This can make them harder for drivers to see, especially at intersections or when changing lanes.
Unlike someone inside a car or SUV, a motorcyclist does not have the protection of a vehicle frame, airbags, or seatbelts. When a collision occurs, the rider may be thrown from the motorcycle or directly struck by another vehicle.
Common factors that may contribute to Ontario motorcycle accidents include:
- Drivers failing to see a motorcycle
- Unsafe left turns
- Failure to yield
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Unsafe lane changes
- Following too closely
- Impaired or fatigued driving
A serious motorcycle crash can cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal injuries, severe road rash, and permanent disabilities. In the most serious cases, the injuries can be fatal.
Drivers should always check their mirrors and blind spots before turning or changing lanes. Extra care around motorcycles can help prevent devastating collisions.
What Happens After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident in Ontario?
A fatal Ontario motorcycle accident may lead to several separate investigations and legal proceedings.
Police investigate the collision to determine what happened and whether charges should be laid. Insurance companies may conduct their own investigations. The victim’s family may also need to consider their rights under Ontario’s insurance and personal injury laws.
Important evidence can include police reports, witness statements, dashcam footage, surveillance video, vehicle data, photographs, medical evidence, and accident reconstruction reports.
Certain family members may have the right to pursue compensation when a loved one dies because of another person’s negligence. The compensation available depends on the facts of the case and Ontario law.
A criminal or Highway Traffic Act charge does not automatically determine civil liability. An experienced Ontario personal injury lawyer can conduct a separate investigation and explain what legal options may be available to the family.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims After a Motorcycle Collision
Losing a family member in a fatal motor vehicle accident can create emotional and financial challenges that last for years.
Ontario law may allow certain family members to pursue a claim after a fatal accident caused by another person’s negligence. Depending on the circumstances, a claim may seek compensation for eligible financial losses and the loss of care, guidance, and companionship.
Families should consider seeking legal advice immediately after a fatal collision. Evidence can disappear over time, and legal deadlines may apply.
A Barrie motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate the crash, preserve important evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and explain the compensation that may be available.
Contact Bergel Magence After a Barrie Motorcycle Accident
If you or someone you love has been affected by a Barrie motorcycle accident, fatal motorcycle collision, or another serious Ontario motor vehicle accident, Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers can help.
For more than 50 years, our legal team has represented individuals and families affected by motorcycle accidents, fatal car accidents, wrongful death claims, pedestrian collisions, truck accidents, and catastrophic injuries throughout Barrie, Toronto, and across Ontario.
A fatal accident can leave a family dealing with grief while also facing insurance questions, financial concerns, and uncertainty about what happens next. Contact Bergel Magence today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Ontario personal injury lawyers can investigate the collision, explain your family’s legal rights, deal with the insurance companies, and pursue the compensation that may be available under Ontario law.