An accident occurred Sunday evening prior to 7 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 309 and Rock Road in Ontario. Ontario Police Departments’ Sergeant Williams stated that the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet and was unconscious, but breathing as he was transported by ambulance to Mansfield Memorial.
It was speculated that the motorcycle operator was heading west on State Route 309 and his vision was impaired as he was driving in the direction of the setting sun. He appeared to have laid his bike down prior to colliding with a stopped Honda sedan at the intersection of Rock Road. The Honda was heading in the same direction. Both vehicles were towed and the towing company quickly removed the debris from the road. The driver and passenger in the automobile were uninjured.
Sergeant Williams said that Ohio does not have a helmet law. Only motorcyclists who have their permit or have had their operator’s license for under one year are required to wear a helmet. All motorcyclists must have protective eyewear if the motorcycle is not equipped with a windshield that will provide face protection.
Williams advised that motor vehicle operators take precautions in all driving conditions. Driving towards the sun is the cause of many rear end accidents. He suggests that reducing speed in conditions where your vision is compromised can help prevent accidents.
He also said that motorists shouild be considerate if driving upon an accident scene. Motorist should avoid driving through the area and turn around, or re-route to avoid traffic congestion. People often forget to pull off to the side of the road and stop to allow emergency vehicles to pass, “The Right for Lights and Sirens”.
