South Bend, Washington – Motorcyclist Killed After Crashing into Traffic Barrier

South Bend, Washington (July 24, 2019) – A motorcyclist was killed after crashing into a traffic barrier off Highway 101 eight miles southwest of South Bend on Wednesday afternoon. The victim, identified as Alexander A. Shine from South Bend, died on the scene. The victim was reported to be wearing a USDOT compliant helmet at the time of the accident. No other vehicles were involved in the crash.

According to Washington State Patrol troopers, the victim was riding on Highway 101 near Bone River around 2-3 p.m. He was said to be traveling at a high rate of speed when he left the roadway and crashed into the guardrail. It has not been determined if alcohol or drugs were involved in the accident. The accident caused Highway 101 to be blocked over 3 hours as investigation was ongoing.

About Motorcycle Accidents

We offer our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loved ones of the victim. Because of a motorcycle’s open nature, the risks of injuries are greater to a person on a motorcycle than a person in a car. Head injuries are common in motorcycle accidents of all kinds, as are limb injuries. Much like any other vehicle accidents, motorcycle accidents can easily come out of lapse of attention and careless maneuvers.  It is important to always observe proper driving and consideration for other vehicles, something which all motorcycle drivers should keep in mind as 3/4 of motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle. This is most likely due to a motorcycle’s overall visibility being less than most other vehicles, which means drivers of other vehicles tend not to see motorcycles in time.  This visibility problem makes motorcycle rides at night especially risky. Additionally, the stationary objects most often struck off-road are trees, utility poles, and traffic barriers, and driving in poor visibility conditions such as nighttime and unfavorable weather can increase the risks of collision with one of the objects mentioned above.

While motorcycles are a much-depended means of transportation, drivers should consider factors such as speed, number of other vehicles on the road, the road conditions and weather to ensure their safety while out and about. Be especially cautious when driving at night, as with any other vehicle. Any mistakes in judgement can lead to accidents, injuries and damage not only to your person, but on other people as well.

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