Motorcycle Collision Killed Two in Empire
The fatal collision took place just before 10:30 p.m. at the intersection of South Santa Fe and South Avenues.
The two people killed have been identified as Brenda Blakes, 20, and Bruce Rummerfield, 53. Rummerfield was the driver of the motorcycle and Blakes was the passenger when they collided with a small gray car.
According to reports, Rummerfield was driving at excessive speeds when he lost control, causing him to collide with the other car. Both were ejected from the motorcycle and Rummerfield was pronounced dead at the scene. Blakes, however, was rushed to Modesto hospital where she later died as a result of her injuries.
The intersection was blocked temporarily during the investigation.
According to the NHTSA, speeding was a contributing factor in 26% of traffic accidents that resulted in death(s) in 2018. The dangers of speeding include:
- Loss of control of vehicle
- Increase in crash severity
- Increase in fuel consumption and/or cost
- Reduces the effectiveness of protection equipment
Additionally, motorcycle accidents, according to the NHTSA, accounted for 14% of motor vehicle accident deaths in 2019.
Motorcyclist occupants are without a doubt more vulnerable in crashes.
Drive responsibly and obey traffic laws.
