KEA’AU, HI – A motorcyclist died after colliding with a vehicle on Highway 11 in Kea‘au on Sunday morning, according to Hawai‘i Island police.
Police responded to the crash at about 10:30 a.m. and learned about the sequence of events that led to the fatal incident.
According to the investigation, three motorcycles were going north on Highway 11, just below the Kamehameha Schools campus in Kea‘au, when the driver of a 2007 Dodge Caliber sedan tried to make a left turn from Old Volcano Road onto Highway 11.
The lead motorcycle, a Yamaha, struck the sedan, causing the motorcycle to hit the second bike, a 2006 Suzuki GSX-R600. The woman riding the Suzuki lost control and slid off the runway. The third motorcyclist, a 41-year-old Kona man, was able to avoid striking the vehicle or debris and was not injured.
The operator of the lead motorcycle, a 32-year-old Puna man, was pronounced dead after being taken to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center. The operator of the Suzuki, a 38-year-old woman from Puna, was treated for injuries that were not life-threatening.
The Dodge driver, a 34-year-old Mountain View woman, and her juvenile passenger were not injured.
Police believe speed was a contributing factor in the crash, but not drugs or alcohol. All three motorcyclists were wearing helmets and protective riding gear at the time.
Motorcycle accidents are often severe because they are unenclosed vehicles that expose riders to more serious injuries. If you or a loved one have been the victim of such an accident, the Recovery Law Center in Honolulu is here to provide you with legal guidance during this difficult time. Our skilled Hawaii motorcycle accident lawyers can help you determine your options for seeking financial compensation. Call us at (808) 427-3088 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
