Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
TAYLORSVILLE — A Utah family is dealing with the loss of their father and husband after a motorcycle crash.
Earl Cline was checking off a bucket list trip to Beartooth Highway in Montana when the accident happened.
His 34-year-old son Christopher Cline, who has cognitive and physical disabilities, was on the bike as well and sustained some serious injuries.
"I remember my dad and I both going down, we were both heading down into a gully," Christopher Cline said. "I don't know what I could have done better to help him, but I wish that we could have figured it out. My dad was my best friend."
Earl Cline was his son's full-time caregiver. The two enjoyed traveling across the country on their motorcycle. Christopher Cline said he and his father always wear their safety gear during these lengthy trips.
"It saved my life, I wish my dad's helmet could have saved his," he said.
Earl Cline's family said they almost lost their father last year to COVID-19. This motorcycle trip was the one thing he was looking forward to.
"He went out doing exactly what he wanted to do and that's 100% the way he would've wanted it," Danny Cline, Earl Cline's son said.
The family now focusing on caring for Christopher Cline, who suffered two broken wrists, a severe concussion, and a fracture in his T5 vertebrae. Friends have set up a GoFundMe to help with those unexpected medical bills and with Earl Cline's funeral expenses.
They say this serves as a good reminder for motorcyclists to protect yourself.
"My dad was wearing safety gear and so was Chris, and obviously he's still here," Danny Cline said.
The family is pleading with both drivers and motorcyclists to share the roads and know motorcycle laws.
"It takes both of us to realize how it all works, just versing yourself in the safety of other drivers and motorcyclists," Danny Cline said.
*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
