Last November, we reported on a hit and run collision that left a local teenager partially paralyzed. The case involved a 26-year-old driver, Connard Lee Riddles III, who struck a motorcycle rider and left the scene. The victim, 17-year-old, Clay Sorrells sustained critical injuries to his face and brain. New developments have surfaced about the outcome of the case. The 78th District Court ruled on this case and has brought some closure to the victim and his family.
The collision, which occurred on Fairway Boulevard, left the victim partially paralyzed. The driver, Connard Lee Riddles III, struck the motorcycle from behind and then fled the scene. Riddles entered a guilty plea to the charge of an accident involving injury or death. He has been sentenced to three years in prison. The victim, Clay Sorrells, has undergone two brain surgeries, and his face remains partially paralyzed. In a bizarre twist to the story, Sorrells was apparently riding a stolen motorcycle at the time of the incident. He was indicted by the Wichita Falls Grand Jury last week. He is facing a charge of theft of property over $1500.
Once again, this news raises awareness about the issue motorcyclist safety. Without the benefit of automobile safety features such as seatbelts and airbags, motorcyclists are at the mercy of the drivers around them. Even with helmets, riders do not have the same protections as automobile drivers. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, other drivers are often at fault in collisions involving motorcycles. This means that most riders are hyper-vigilant to the dangers around them. Riding defensively is absolutely crucial for the personal safety of a motorcyclist. Often times, an automobile driver will fail to check for a motorcyclist before making a critical turn. Unfortunately, with distracted and drunk drivers on the roadways motorcyclists may have a hard time staying safe.
If you or somebody you know has been injured in a motorcycle crash, you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney in Wichita Falls immediately. Victims of motorcycle wrecks may be facing steep medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. It is important to have an experienced personal injury attorney looking out for your legal rights. An experienced attorney will begin the complicated legal process as soon as possible. If you have been injured in a motorcycle wreck, contact the team at the Altman Legal Group at (800) 772-0828 for a free consultation.