Charleston, SC: Motorcyclists killed in Wreck
Two men coming from Myrtle Beach to Charleston for a day trip were stopped in traffic on Highway 17 near Anna Knapp Boulevard when an SUV behind them failed to stop. The SUV hit the motorcyles, pushed both men into another vehicle and then the SUV was forced into another car. Though two helmets were found at the scene, the responding officer was unsure if the men were wearing them at the time of the impact. In light of this, Charleston Accident Lawyers want to remind all drivers and motorcyclists to exercise caution when in close proximity to each other on the road and for motorcyclists especially to always use proper safety precautions when operating their vehicles.
The men were taken by EMS to Medical University Hospital, where they died from their injuries. The driver was not identified and responding officers said their was not immediate indication that the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Charges are pending, awaiting the results of an investigation.
A 2004 study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Administration showed that from 1998 to 2003, there were approximately 49,000 people injured and 2,284 people killed in motorcycle related incidents on America's roads. Of those, 46% fatally injured were not wearing a helmet at the time of their accidents. NHTA estimates that motorcycle helmets reduce the likelihood of a fatal injury occuring by 29% in a crash.
Source: The Charleston Post and Courier, "Motorcycle Riders Die in Wreck" May 31st, 2010
The National Highway Transportation Administration
