Centre Co, PA (August 27, 2024) – A fatal motorcycle crash occurred on Monday afternoon in College Township, resulting in the death of a 22-year-old man. The incident, reported by the College Township Police Department, took place at approximately 4:20 p.m. at the intersection of East College Ave and Struble Rd near State College.

According to the College Township Police Department, a 73-year-old man driving a Toyota Prius attempted to make a left turn from East College Ave onto Struble Rd and collided with a motorcyclist traveling east on East College Ave. The impact caused the motorcyclist to be ejected from his bike. Emergency responders, including medevac teams, transported the motorcyclist to UPMC Altoona, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The identity of the motorcyclist has been withheld pending notification of his family. The driver of the Prius, a local resident, sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. Emergency services, including local fire departments, assisted with the extraction of the vehicles and the management of the scene. Traffic was temporarily diverted while the authorities conducted their investigation. At this time, authorities have indicated that alcohol and drugs are not believed to be contributing factors in the crash.

We offer our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victim.

Motorcycle Fatalities on the Rise in Centre County

Centre County has witnessed a troubling rise in motorcycle fatalities, with 15 deaths reported in 2023 alone, representing a 20% increase from the previous year. This statistic is part of a broader trend where motorcycle accidents contribute significantly to traffic fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash per mile traveled compared to occupants of passenger vehicles. The heightened risk underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and increased awareness among both motorcyclists and drivers.

Motorcycle crashes are particularly severe due to the inherent vulnerability of riders, often resulting in catastrophic injuries. In 2022, Pennsylvania experienced over 200 motorcycle fatalities, with many occurring in rural areas similar to Centre County. Authorities stress the critical importance of helmet use and cautious driving in addressing this issue. Public education and improved rider training are essential steps in mitigating these risks and improving overall road safety. In the wake of such tragic accidents, families may seek compensation through wrongful death claims. These claims can cover funeral expenses, medical bills incurred before death, loss of future income, and non-economic damages such as loss of companionship and emotional suffering. The specific damages awarded can vary based on the details of the case and local jurisdiction, making it vital for affected families to seek knowledgeable legal assistance to ensure they receive appropriate compensation and justice.

If you have lost a loved one in a Centre County fatal motorcycle accident, a knowledgeable Pennsylvania wrongful death attorney from The Slocum Law Firm is prepared to help. With a steadfast commitment to client advocacy and a proven track record of success, our law firm offers personalized legal representation to individuals injured due to negligence.

To speak with our lawyers about your Centre County fatal motorcycle accident, call The Slocum Law Firm at (570) 290-7376 to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights and interests are tirelessly defended.