Motorcyclist injured after crashing into deer near Atascadero
A Visalia man was transported to the hospital with major injuries after his motorcycle crashed into a deer near Atascadero early Tuesday morning, the CHP said.
Wayne Jones, 55, was headed north on Rocky Canyon Road south of Old Adobe Canyon Road and Highway 41 at around 2:30 a.m. Tuesday when a deer ran out in front of him, according to the CHP. The Atascadero Police Department alerted the agency to the crash.
Jones turned his 1988 Harley Davidson Sportster to the east shoulder of the road to try to avoid the deer, but he still collided with the nanimal, the CHP said.
After hitting the deer, the motorcycle went up a small embankment and Jones was ejected, the release said.
The CHP said Jones was wearing safety equipment at the time, including a helmet.
After the collision, Jones was able to walk for a little while before he collapsed on the shoulder of the road, the release said.
A passing motorist and nearby resident found Jones and called for help, according to the release. The CHP said Jones experienced “significant head trauma” and was admitted to Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center in San Luis Obispo for his injuries.
The CHP said high rates of speed, distracted driving or drugs and alcohol do not appear to be causes for the incident.
