Marine May Be Charged with Vehicular Manslaughter in Motorcyclist’s Death
Police have not determined what caused the fatal motorcycle accident.
A 49-year-old man died in a fatal motorcycle accident in San Diego on Friday after being struck by a Camp Pendleton Marine.
According to police reports, James Kelly Worley was riding his 2004 Harley Davidson Road King along Interstate 5 near Basilone Road when he was struck by a 2003 Nissan 350Z. The driver of the car, 23-year-old Eugene McCulloch, told police he was driving to the base when the accident occurred at approximately 6:05 a.m.
Police say McCulloch was driving at approxmiately 70 miles per hour in the fast lane when his vehicle drifted left into the center dirt median. McCulloch then lost control of the vehicle and veered sharply to the right and into the path of Worley's motorcycle. Worley was struck by the Nissan and ejected onto the road. He sustained significant injuries and died at the scene.
According to a statement McCulloch made to police, he was smoking a cigarette and ash fell into his lap, causing him to lose control of the car. Police are still investigating the cause of the crash but a representative of the California Highway Patrol has stated that a charge of vehicular manslaughter be forthcoming in the case.
As evidenced by this tragic accident, a brief moment of carelessness can result in the death of an innocent motorcyclist. Even if the victim had been able to survive his injuries, he likely would have faced a long road to recovery that may have included extensive hospitalization, multiple surgeries and physical therapy. If the police are able to determine that Mr. McCulloch caused the death of Mr. Worley through negligence, the victim's family may choose to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit for the loss of their loved one.
If someone you love has been seriously injured or killed in a motorcycle accident through no fault of their own, you too may have grounds for an injury claim against the other driver. The law firm of Nadrich & Cohen is dedicated to helping San Diego motorcycle accident victims and their families get the compensation they deserve for their injuries.
The true cost of a motorcycle accident encompasses not only your medical bills but the loss of wages if you're unable to work and the emotional trauma caused by your pain and suffering. If you think you may have a personal injury or wrongful death claim stemming from a motorcycle accident, call us today at 1-800-722-0765 to discuss your case. We are eager to speak with you and there is no fee for your initial case consultation.
All cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning there is never a charge unless we recover a money judgment on your behalf. Call our Injury Hotline now to get the expert legal representation you need to handle your San Diego motorcycle accident injury lawsuit.
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