Police investigation has determined more of the factors leading up to a serious crash on Morden Road south of Nanaimo on Saturday.
Emergency crews were called to Morden near the intersection with Waring Road in South Wellington at about 4 p.m. on April 18 after a collision involving a car and three motorcycles. According to an RCMP press release issued Sunday, a 28-year-old motorcyclist was airlifted to a Victoria hospital with life-threatening injuries, a 30-year-old motorcyclist was taken to Nanaimo Regional General Hospital with serious injuries and a 46-year-old motorcyclist sustained only minor injuries. The 20-year-old driver of the Honda Civic and his 23-year-old passenger were uninjured, remained on scene and co-operated with the investigation.
Police say their preliminary investigation has found that the driver of the Civic was travelling eastbound on Morden before pulling to the side of the road to attempt a U-turn. The first motorcyclist, travelling westbound on Morden, collided with the passenger side of the car.
“This is a tragic reminder that everyone plays a part in keeping our streets and highways safe,” said Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, in the release.
RCMP say alcohol and drugs have been ruled out for all involved. The vehicles will undergo mechanical inspections.
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Police note that Saturday’s crash was the second this week that resulted in serious injuries to a motorcyclist. They remind motorists to check blind spots and use mirrors and turn signals when changing lanes or merging into traffic. They also ask drivers and riders to maintain an appropriate distance from the vehicle travelling ahead, be alert to potential dangers, and travel within posted speed limits.
editor@nanaimobulletin.com
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