California Highway Patrol press release: 

 

On the morning of Tuesday, October 2, 2018, a vehicle versus a motorcycle collision resulted in major injuries. 

At approximately 9:44 a.m., Michael Lafferty, age 55, of Canton, Massachusetts was driving a 2018 Ford Edge southbound on Central Avenue at Anna Sparks Way and was at a complete stop for the solid red traffic signal.  David Karr, age 60, of McKinleyville, was riding a 1984 Honda V65 Magna motorcycle southbound on Central Avenue, north of Anna Sparks Way at an unknown rate of speed.       

At the time of the collision the weather was cool and cloudy.  Mr. Lafferty had positioned his vehicle in the designated forward only lane and activated his right turn signal.  Mr. Karr was proceeding forward and aggressively accelerated his motorcycle as he entered the right turn only lane.  The traffic signal light turned green and Mr. Lafferty turned the Ford to the right to drive in a westerly direction up Anna Sparks Way.  Mr. Karr drove the motorcycle into the right rear of the Ford. 

As a result of the collision, Mr. Karr was ejected off the motorcycle. He came to rest on the roadway and sustained major injuries. 
The Arcata-Mad River Ambulance responded to the scene and transported Mr. Karr to Mad River Community Hospital for medical treatment.  Mr. Karr was later transported by air to Mercy Medical Center. 

DUI is not a factor.

The California Highway Patrol - Humboldt Area responded to the scene and is conducting the investigation.  The California Highway Patrol would like to thank personnel from Humboldt Bay Fire Department and Arcata-Mad River Ambulance for their assistance at the scene.    

Anyone with information related to this collision is encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol at 707-822-5981.