Young motorcyclist killed in at problem intersection

On Monday night, a young motorcyclist was killed in a tragic accident near an intersection in West Haven Connecticut. Since July, two others have been killed in accidents at the same intersection. Now investigators and residents are looking into the dangerous conditions that may have contributed to the catastrophic accidents and fatalities.

According to witnesses, two motorcycles struck a truck and hit the truck so hard that it was pushed up on two wheels. A former EMT who witnessed the accident estimated that the motorcyclists were traveling at 70 miles an hour. Both motorcycles were wedged under the truck. A second victim, who was launched over the truck, survived the crash. According to witnesses, he was unconscious, lying face down. He was able to say his name and trying to stand up, but rescuers held him down to protect his spine and neck.

Police are currently investigating the accident at the intersection which killed two other men in July. There have been three separate dangerous accidents at the intersection in only seven weeks. Residents in the area believe that the intersection is dangerous to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

In the event of an accident, an independent investigation using experts and reconstructionists can help to determine the cause of the accident and identify any responsible parties. In this case, the city could be held liable if signs were improper or if negligence is found in maintaining the intersection. It is unknown whether any of the drivers were negligent or if the truck driver had any role in the collision.

Source: WTNH, “Fatal motorcycle crash in West Haven,” Bob Wilson, Sept. 3, 2012