A challenging Colorado motorcycle race ended in tragedy for Bobby Goodin when he crashed his bike while crossing the finish line at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 29, 2014. According to witnesses, Mr. Goodin crashed when he lost control after raising his arms to celebrate his finish. After losing control, he hit a boulder and “fell face first” into some rocks. Mr. Goodin finished in 40th place in the race and 4th place in his division.
Although five racers have died since the race began 92 years ago, this is the first motorcycle crash resulting in a death in over 30 years.
Called the “Race to the Clouds,” the Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb is a 13-mile race with over 150 turns. Elevation starts at 9,300 fee and rises to over 14,000 feet by the finish line. The high altitude increases the difficulty (and danger) of the race because it “slows reflexes and saps muscle strength — plus it robs engines of 30 percent of their power. Competitors and vehicles must be in top shape simply to finish.” This was Mr. Goodin’s second time competing in the race.
Although this crash sounds like it was due to rider error, losing control of your bike doesn’t necessarily mean that you were at fault for purposes of a personal injury lawsuit involving your motorcycle.
In fact, there doesn’t even need to be contact between your bike and another vehicle in order for the driver to be held liable for your injuries. Other vehicles frequently make sudden moves or cut off a rider, forcing him or her to swerve. When that happens, and you go down, the other driver may be held responsible in a civil law suit for your injuries.
Failing to see you is no excuse for cutting you off and causing you to crash. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s very important to seek competent motorcycle injury lawyer immediately. Evidence that’s essential to your case may be lost, which can jeopardize your rights.
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