Authorities said a man on a “mini-motorcycle” was fatally injured in a crash involving a tractor-trailer in Long Beach on Wednesday. The incident occurred at around 4:45 p.m. at the intersection of West Anaheim Street and Hayes Avenue, according to the Long Beach Police Department.
Upon arrival, officers found the tractor-trailer and motorcycle stopped on Hayes, just north of West Anaheim Street. The driver of the bike was discovered lying in the road and identified as Nicholas Kusmich, a 50-year-old resident of Long Beach. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
A preliminary investigation revealed that the cause of the collision was most likely due to distracted driving, as a 2020 Kenworth tractor-trailer carrying a shipping container turned left onto Hayes from eastbound Anaheim. Meanwhile, the mini motorcycle was traveling westbound along the north side curb of Anaheim when it collided with the passenger side of the truck.
The driver of the tractor-trailer stayed at the site and cooperated with authorities.
At this time, there is no evidence of speeding or driving under the influence being contributing factors to this accident. However, authorities are still urging anyone who may have information about this incident to contact LBPD.
CRASH INVESTIGATION
Candice Bond, an experienced tractor-trailer accident attorney, said that in such cases, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted promptly to protect the rights of a victim.
“Tractor-trailer crashes are often complex, and many factors can play a role in these types of accidents,” said Bond, who is a Managing Partner of Bond Legal.
“A skilled attorney can protect victims from trucking companies, which often send their own investigators to crash sites and possess a variety of resources they can utilize to defend a negligent truck driver.
“Your lawyer can advocate for you by hiring expert witnesses, conducting driver background checks, locating witnesses to the crash, and reviewing applicable insurance coverage, while carefully guiding a victim through the legal process.”
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
The family of Nicholas Kusmich may pursue compensation for damages such as costs associated with the death, loss of income and companionship, and other hardships.
“A death to a family member after an accident is both tragic and devastating to a surviving family. The grief, shock, and anger can be overwhelming,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.
He added, “Aside from the emotional suffering of those left behind, the death of someone close can have devastating financial implications. Loss of income and funeral costs alone can have tragic consequences when a family member is lost.”
