Over the weekend, a motorcycle crash in Maggie Valley took the lives of two people. According to WLOS ABC News Channel 13, Joey and Michelle Dunlap, parents of two teenage daughters, were headed to join a Shriner’s parade on their motorcycle just before the crash. Sadly, they never made it to the parade. The wreck happened on Saturday at about 10:50 a.m., on US 19. A BMW SUV pulled onto the roadway in front of them and the Cherryville couple was unable to stop in time. The vehicles collided. Both riders died as a result of their injuries.
Deadly Motorcycle Wreck on US 19
WLOS ABC News Channel 13 also reports that the SUV was pulling out of the Dollar General parking lot at the time of the wreck. Local residents said this isn’t the first time a fatal crash has happened on this stretch of road. This part of US 19 is notorious for speeding too, and even though the speed limit was recently reduced from 55 miles per hour to 45 miles per hour, some community members report that drivers are still speeding. There’s no word on whether or not any charges have been filed, but the driver of the SUV, who reportedly did not see the motorcycle, could be facing a failure to yield citation.
Department of Transportation Evaluating Crash Scene
At this time, the crash is still under investigation with authorities. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT) is also evaluating the scene to determine if there were any possible contributing factors to the crash. It may be necessary to make changes to either the roadway or the exit from the Dollar General parking lot.
Motorcycle Accidents in Asheville
After a motorcycle accident, it’s important to speak with a personal injury lawyer. Investigations are often lengthy, and dealing with insurance companies can be exhausting. Motorcycle riders are one of the most vulnerable roadway user groups. Like cyclists and pedestrians, they don’t have the benefit of airbags, steel cages and seat belts to keep them safe. They rely on drivers to share the road.
The whole team at Davis Law Group, P.A. sends their deepest heartfelt condolences to Joey and Michelle Dunlap’s family members, friends and loved ones.