Georgetown, DE (August 2, 2024) – A fatal motorcycle crash occurred on Friday, August 2, near Millsboro, resulting in the death of a 19-year-old man from Georgetown. The Delaware State Police reported that the incident took place at approximately 8:33 a.m. at the intersection of Rockaway Acres Rd and Shiloh Church Road.

According to the Delaware State Police, the 19-year-old was riding a Harley-Davidson north on Rockaway Acres Road when he attempted to turn left onto Shiloh Church Road in front of a Chevrolet Tahoe driven by a 39-year-old woman. The front of the Tahoe collided with the motorcycle, causing the rider to be thrown off the bike. The Tahoe then veered off the road, hitting two trees.

The motorcyclist was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the Tahoe and her 12-year-old passenger, both from Laurel, were uninjured in the crash. The police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased victim.

Rising Concerns Over Road Safety in Delaware

Delaware has witnessed a troubling rise in motorcycle-related fatalities in recent years, underscoring a critical issue on the state’s roads. According to data from the Delaware Office of Highway Safety, motorcycle crashes accounted for approximately 15% of all traffic fatalities in 2023, despite motorcycles representing only about 3% of registered vehicles in the state. 

This disproportionate statistic highlights the inherent risks associated with motorcycle riding, particularly in high-traffic areas and at busy intersections. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) further emphasizes these dangers by reporting that motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in a crash per mile traveled compared to passenger vehicle occupants. Factors such as limited visibility, high-speed impacts, and the lack of protective barriers contribute significantly to the severity of motorcycle accidents.

As the state grapples with these challenges, there is an urgent need for increased awareness and improved safety measures to protect riders on the road. For families affected by these tragic events, pursuing a wrongful death claim can be an essential step toward securing justice and compensation. 

In Delaware, the surviving spouse, children, or other dependents of the deceased typically have the right to file a wrongful death claim. This legal action can seek compensation for damages such as funeral and burial expenses, loss of income and future earnings, loss of companionship, and the emotional suffering experienced by surviving family members. 

The specific damages recoverable will vary based on the details of each case, and consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can provide critical support in navigating the legal process and ensuring fair compensation. Seeking legal guidance is essential for victims and their families to navigate the complex legal process and pursue rightful compensation.

If you have lost a loved one in a Georgetown fatal motorcycle accident, a knowledgeable Georgetown wrongful death attorney from Murphy & Landon 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 the negligence and/or recklessness of other drivers.

To speak with our lawyers about your Georgetown wrongful death case, call Murphy & Landon at (302) 472-8112 to schedule a complimentary consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights and interests are tirelessly defended.

Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Contact Murphy & Landon if you locate any information that is inaccurate or incorrect. We will update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.

Disclaimer: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, get medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at this accident scene.