Thomas Edward Bronson, 63, was killed in a motorcycle accident near Petaluma after he lost control of his 2007 Harley-Davidson and crashed. According to a Bay City News report Bronson was riding his motorcycle west on Pepper Road near Meacham Road, the night of May 8, 2010, when it went off the roadway and struck a utility pole. Bronson was traveling at the posted speed limit, but failed to negotiate a left bend in the road, California Highway Patrol officials said. Bronson was also wearing full riding gear when the accident occurred. He died at the scene. It is not yet known whether alcohol was a factor in this fatal crash.


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I offer my heartfelt sympathies to everyone who knew and loved Thomas Edward Bronson for their tragic and devastating loss. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but 18 injuries reported as a result of motorcycle accidents in Petaluma. In Sonoma County as a whole motorcycle accidents claimed six lives and caused 166 injuries during the same year.

What Caused the Motorcycle Accident?

Based on this news report, it is not clear what exactly caused Bronson to lose control of his motorcycle. It seems as if he was a safe rider. It is true we are still not sure whether alcohol was involved. But the report states that he was traveling at speed limit and was wearing full riding gear. There are a few questions that remain here. Was there a vehicle defect in the Harley that caused Bronson to lose control and crash? Did a dangerous or defective roadway play a part in this tragic accident? Were there any other vehicles involved? For example, was Bronson run off the roadway by another vehicle? I trust CHP officials are looking into these and other factors in order to get some answers in this case.

Liability Issues

If an auto product defect was involved, the manufacturer of the defective auto could be held liable. If a dangerous or defective roadway caused the accident, then the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could be held liable as well. Please remember that any such claim against a governmental entity in California must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injuries. An experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families about their legal rights and options.

What precautions would you suggest motorcyclists take to avoid accidents?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.

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