Police recently released the names of the woman who was injured and man who died in a late-August motorcycle crash. The man, John Earnest Newhart Jr., 43, was driving the motorcycle and Kimberly Michele West, also 43, was his passenger.
According to the Shreveport Times, the accident happened on Saturday, August 28 at 8 p.m. on I-20 near the Traffic Street exit.
Witnesses reported that Newhart Jr. lost control of the motorcycle, which caused West to fall. When Newhart Jr. stopped and tried to help West, they were struck by a car.
Both victims sustained severe injuries and were treated at University Health. Newhart Jr. died from his injuries and West was listed in serious condition.
If you were seriously injured in a motorcycle crash, then you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income and non-economic damages. If your family member died due to another driver’s negligence, then you can pursue compensation by filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
The legal team at Morris Bart, LLC has the skills, knowledge and courtroom experience to represent your interests. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation with an accident attorney in Shreveport.
How to Transport Passengers Safely on a Motorcycle
Driving a motorcycle with a passenger is not the same as riding solo. The extra weight affects the handling, and any sudden movements from a passenger could cause a crash.
If you intend to transport a passenger on a motorcycle, keep these three tips in mind:
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Teach Your Passenger How to Communicate while Riding
It is important that your passenger can tell you if he or she needs to stop. A double-tap on the shoulder is an easy way to communicate.
Lay Ground Rules
As the driver, you are responsible for your passenger’s safety. As such, it is important that you set ground rules before you depart.
Passengers should only get on and off a bike with the driver’s permission. They should keep their weight centered at all times and avoid sudden movements.
Inform your passenger that he or she does not need to help with any aspects of riding the bike, such as leaning into corners. Your passenger should always use the foot pegs and trust your decisions and maneuvers on the bike.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
Adjust Your Bike to Accommodate a Passenger
You may need to adjust your motorcycle to accommodate a passenger. Check your shocks and tire pressure before you depart. Your owner’s manual will explain which adjustments to make to accommodate a passenger.
If you were injured in a motorcycle crash that another driver caused, contact a Shreveport injury lawyer from Morris Bart, LLC. Our legal team will evaluate your case and determine if you may have grounds for a personal-injury claim.
We will help you avoid mistakes such as overlooking certain damages, accepting a low settlement, unknowingly admitting fault to insurance adjusters, or signing a general release. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultatio
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
