During the warmer months of the year, bicyclists can be seen all over Alaska. While those who choose this form of transportation both to get around and for exercise generally do so safely, danger arises when those on bicycles cross paths with motorcyclists who are in the final stages of a grueling cross-continent race. Such appears to have been the case recently when an Alaska motorcycle accident injured two bicyclists near Fairbanks.
According to police, this Alaska motorcycle accident occurred last week when Andy Hutten, 50, and Karen Schaad, 22, were riding their bicycles on the Parks Highway about 50 miles outside of Fairbanks. Both bicyclists reside in Nenana. Suddenly, they were hit by Vik Livingston, 53, who was racing towards Homer and hoping to complete the race known as the Iditarod of Harley-Davidsons, which begins in Key West, Florida and finishes in Homer. The race spans 8,000 miles. Authorities suspect that the motorcyclist had fallen asleep at the wheel, as the crash occurred in a long and straight patch of the highway. As a result of this Alaska motorcycle accident, Hutten suffered a cut on his leg and Schaad suffered a chipped vertebra and a cracked pelvis.
Alaska Traffic Accident Statistics
Fortunately, both bicyclists and the motorcyclist survived the crash. Unfortunately, this situation will only add to the overall total regarding Alaska traffic accident statistics. Every year, more than 10,000 such accidents occur, leading to more than 3,000 injuries and almost 100 deaths. Given the circumstances of this crash, with three vehicles that leave their drivers completely exposed and a lack of braking or slowing down, everyone should feel fortunate to have survived.
Alaska Personal Injury Lawyers
While it's possible that the motorcyclist could face scrutiny from law enforcement, it's also possible that the injured bicyclists could have legal rights and options that include filing an Alaska personal injury lawsuit. If such a claim was successful, the plaintiffs could be awarded damages for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering and other forms of compensation depending on the specific facts of the case. If you or someone you love has been harmed in an accident, seek the help of Alaska personal injury lawyers who have been holding those responsible for causing harm accountable for many years. Contact Barber & Banker today at (800) 478-5858 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Alaska Personal Injury Lawyer