A 24-year-old woman has been charged with vehicular manslaughter in connection with the death of motorcyclist Jeffrey Russell Cramer, 50, was killed in a San Francisco car accident after the woman rear-ended his motorcycle at the Capitol Expressway. According to a news report in the San Jose Mercury News, the fatal motorcycle collision occurred the night of January 2, 2010 when the driver, Heather Anne Baxter, was going about 70 mph and couldn't stop in time to avoid colliding with Cramer's blue Suzuki DRZ 400 motorcycle. He was thrown off his bike and on to the southbound Route 87. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Jeffrey Russell Cramer for their tragic and devastating loss. I offer my deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved this man. Please keep them in your prayers.

Motorcycle Accidents

There was one fatality and 106 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in San Jose in 2007, according to CHP's traffic accident statistics. In Santa Clara County as a whole, eight deaths and 296 injuries were reported as a result of motorcycle accidents during the same year.

Vehicular Manslaughter Charges

Baxter is facing one count of felony and one count of misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter. California Highway Patrol officials say both vehicles were in the number two lane at the time. Investigators are unsure whether the motorcycle was traveling or stopped for traffic ahead at the time of the collision. However, officials do not believe drugs or alcohol were involved. According to California Vehicle Code, drivers must travel at a safe enough speed to be able to slow down for traffic ahead or other obstacles on the roadway. To prove a felony vehicular manslaughter charge, prosecutors are required to prove what is termed "gross negligence."

Wrongful Death Claim

In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased car accident victims can file a wrongful death claim. Such claims seek compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost earnings, loss of love and companionship and other related damages. An experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer can guide families and ensure their legal rights and best interests are protected at a time when they are extremely vulnerable. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

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