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SALT LAKE CITY — A motorcyclist is in extremely critical condition after rear-ending a minivan stopped in traffic on I-15 Wednesday, police said.
A 47-year-old man was driving southbound on I-15 near 500 North when he encountered slower traffic due to other accidents in the area, according to Sgt. Blaine Robbins of the Utah Highway Patrol.
"We had a witness say that he saw the motorcycle start to swerve back and forth," he said. "The bike then rear-ended a vehicle that was here waiting in line. That motorcycle then glanced off the vehicle and hit the wall."
UHP originally reported that the man had died. Initial reports also falsely indicated a semitruck was involved in the accident.
Witnesses told investigators the man's helmet popped off when he hit the wall and that he traveled another 25-30 feet before landing on his head. He was transferred to a hospital.
Robbins said it appeared the motorcyclist was at fault in the accident because he rear-ended another vehicle.
"We are required by law to maintain our vehicles when coming into traffic like that, whatever the case may be," he said. "You've got to be able to stop safely."
Drivers should always look 10-12 seconds ahead and prepare to stop if they see brake lights, Robbins said. He said drivers should be especially cautious with holiday traffic.
More information will be added as it becomes available.
Contributing: Peter Samore
