RELATED: Motorcyclist killed in collision with car in Springfield
Witnesses saw Carmen pull out in front of the Impala, Bauer said.
The driver of the Impala was identified as 66-year-old Tusi Lanham. He suffered minor injuries from the crash, officials at the scene said.
Carmen was thrown underneath the car during the crash. Springfield Fire/Rescue Division medics were able to get him out but not revive him. He was pronounced dead and a cover was placed over his body.
Speed doesn’t appear to have been a cause of the accident, Bauer said. The crash is still under investigation.
“There’s no reason to believe that the motorcycle was going very fast,” he said. “There’s not indication that the Chevy Impala was going very fast.”
It also remains unclear if Carmen was wearing protective gear during the crash, Bauer said, but a helmet was found at the scene.
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With the weather warming up, Bauer said it’s important to remember motorcyclists are more likely to be on the road.
“For the individuals driving those cars and trucks, you’ve got to be aware that there are more pedestrians out, more bicycles out, more motorcycles out … Everybody needs to be cognizant on a nice day because everyone is out,” he said.
David Busch, general manager of Ride One Power Sports motorcycle dealer, said drivers need to be cautious of motorcycles. He also said that riders need to be careful, too, and always wear safety gear like helmets and gloves.
“Motorcycle riding, you always need to be on the defensive,” he said. “You’ve always got to be careful. Maybe that car might not stop. Maybe that car might not see you. So you always have to double check, look twice and be on the defensive.”
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