A head on accident involving a motorcycle and a car driven by 74 year old Hazel Halloran took the lives of a popular Bakersfield couple, Jim and Debbie Harmon. The couple was riding their Harley Davidson motorcycle early in the morning when it was struck by Halloran's Buick. Jim Harmon suffered cardiac arrest enroute to the hospital, and his wife was transferred to Kern Medical Center where she died. Ms. Halloran suffered no injuries in the accident.
The deceased couple was on their way to a motorcycle safety conference according to family members, when Halloran drifted off of the road and lost control by overcorrecting to get back on the roadway, which resulted in hitting Harmon's motorcycle head-on. Jim and Debbie Harmon were very well known and liked in the Bakersfield motorcycle community. They were active in local charities, and Jim served as president of the Bakersfield Toy Run, which is an organization that collects food and toys for needy families and is the largest in California. While many people believe that riding motorcycles is unsafe, it actually can be a
safe activity. Bakersfield
personal injury lawyers often notice that wrecks are caused by negligent or careless drivers that drive under the influence, speed, tailgate and cut off motorcycle riders. Unfortunately, many bikers are killed that are following the rules of the road, and other careless motorists cause the accidents. All motorcyclists should ride safely, wear an approved helmet, and make certain their motorcycle is in proper working order. Motorcycle accidents are not always caused by the driver; in fact, many are caused by other motorists who fail to pay attention.
Motorcyclists can also help avoid accidents by riding in well-lit areas, and avoiding unsafe roads. Many times sharp curves, rough surfaces and steep turns can be dangerous circumstances for someone riding a motorcycle. People who are injured in motorcycle accidents because of the negligence or carelessness of another motorists may be eligible to be compensated for their injuries, and survivors of a victim may claim damages for wrongful death.
The Reeves Law Group has offices across California, and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of motorcycle accidents. Please contact us for a free consultation at (800) 644-8000.
