On Monday night, two people were killed in a motorcycle crash in Cherokee County, South Carolina. According to WLOS ABC News Channel 13, the wreck happened on SC Highway 221. For currently unknown reasons, the motorcycle apparently crossed the centerline and collided with a Ford truck, head on. Both the driver and the passenger on the motorcycle were thrown from the vehicle. Heather Lane Guffey and Mark Jonathan Petty, both 26 years old, died as a result of their injuries.
Truck Passenger Also Injured in Crash
The passenger in the front seat of the pickup truck was transported to the hospital in Spartanburg for treatment of injuries. No other injuries were reported, although there were two other people in the truck. There’s no word on the extent of injuries involved or that person’s current condition. Very few details about the crash have been released, as it may still be under investigation with local law enforcement authorities.
Motorcycle Accidents in Asheville
Per vehicle mile travelled, motorcycle riders were more than 26 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in traffic crashes in 2012. Even with helmets, protective vests and jackets and other types of safety equipment, motorcycle riders are at an increased risk for catastrophic and fatal injuries when involved in crashes. They simply don’t have the same protections available as other motorists on the roads.
Just The Facts: Motorcycle Crashes
- In 2012, 4,957 motorcyclists were killed in crashes across the nation.
- In 2011, 4,630 motorcycle riders were killed in U.S. wrecks.
- Approximately 93,000 motorcycle riders were injured in 2012.
- Approximately 81,000 motorcyclists were injured in 2011.
- In 2012, motorcycle riders accounted for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities.
Improving Motorcycle Safety
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) “Share The Road” safety campaign is aimed at raising awareness about the dangers motorcycle riders face. Even with safety equipment, riders can become injured or killed in accidents. Motorcycle riders in Asheville and across the country are truly at the mercy of other motorists on the roadways, so drivers in North Carolina and across the country are encouraged to share the road.
The team at Davis Law Group, P.A. sends their deepest condolences to the family members and friends of Heather Lane Guffey and Mark Jonathan Petty. We also wish the injured victim a speedy and full recovery.