La Grande, Washington – Motorcyclist Killed After Collision With Truck

La Grande, Washington  (April 30, 2019) – A 77 year-old man was killed after his motorcycle slid into the path of a truck at Mountain Highway at 11:55 a.m. on Tuesday. He was declared dead on the scene. The victim has since been identified as Robert F. Gruber from Spanaway. The truck driver was reported to have sustained no injuries in the collision.

The victim was driving south on State Route 7 when he crossed the center line and collided directly with the oncoming truck. According to Washington State Patrol spokeswoman trooper Johnna Batiste, the victim lost control of his motorcycle for an unknown reason. The truck, which was headed north, was not carrying its usual load of timber, but was still unable to stop in time. Despite wearing a helmet, Gruber died from his injuries on the scene. Officials have ruled out impairment being a factor in the crash. The accident caused the highway to be closed for around four hours.

About Motorcycle Accidents

We extend our sympathies and compassion to the friends and loved ones of the victim. Much like any other vehicle accidents, motorcycle accidents can easily come out of lapse of attention and careless maneuvers.  It is important to always observe proper driving and consideration for other vehicles, something which all motorcycle drivers should keep in mind as 3/4 of motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle. This is most likely due to a motorcycle’s overall visibility being less than most other vehicles, which means drivers of other vehicles tend not to see motorcycles in time.  This visibility problem makes motorcycle rides at night especially risky. Because of a motorcycle’s open nature, the risks of injuries are greater to a person on a motorcycle than a person in a car. Head injuries are common in motorcycle accidents of all kinds, as are limb injuries.

While motorcycles are a much-depended means of transportation, drivers should consider factors such as speed, number of other vehicles on the road, the road conditions and weather to ensure their safety while out and about. Be especially cautious when driving at night, as with any other vehicle. Any mistakes in judgement can lead to accidents, injuries and damage not only to your person, but on other people as well.

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Note: The exact location of the crash has not been provided.