San Bernardino, CA (July 4, 2024) – Ray Benicki, a 55-year-old man from Jamestown, has been identified as the victim in a deadly crash on O’Byrnes Ferry Road last Tuesday.
Incident Details and Investigation: The tragic accident occurred between Pyle Road and Black Creek Drive. Benicki was traveling northbound on his motorcycle. A Ford pickup truck towing a travel trailer was traveling southbound. The driver was 40-year-old Amber Johnston from Lake Elsinore. Officer Jeremy Cooper reported that the collision happened while Benicki was passing another vehicle, leading to a head-on crash with the pickup truck. The motorcycle flipped on its side and slid under the pickup, resulting in fatal injuries to Benicki, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Johnston was not injured in the crash. The collision remains under investigation.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. Firstly, the circumstances surrounding Benicki’s decision to pass another vehicle must be examined. Was it a legal passing zone? Were there any contributing factors, such as visibility issues or the behavior of other drivers on the road? Secondly, the condition and speed of both vehicles at the time of the collision are crucial details. Analyzing the point of impact, skid marks, and any surveillance footage from the area could provide additional insights. Moreover, the fact that Johnston’s truck was towing a travel trailer adds another layer of complexity. It’s vital to assess whether the trailer’s load was secure and if it played any role in the severity of the crash. Investigating whether Johnston had the proper license and experience to tow such a trailer is also pertinent. If negligence was the cause of the accident, Benicki’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Ray Benicki during this difficult time.
Source: My Mother Lode