Motorcyclist's reckless maneuver ends in fatal crash against a tree

A tragic accident claimed the life of Cleiton Martins da Silva, a 39-year-old motorcyclist, on the afternoon of Monday, October 28, in Campinas, São Paulo. The accident occurred near the intersection of João Jorge, Amoreiras and Prestes Maia Avenues, when the victim, who was performing dangerous maneuvers in traffic, collided with the side of a vehicle and was thrown onto the median strip, where he hit a tree.

The accident was captured on video by another motorcyclist who was riding behind and who recorded how Martins da Silva tried to "zigzag" between the cars. In the recording, you can see the moment when he quickly approaches a white car, crashes into it and loses control of his motorcycle. "Oh, he's dead," exclaimed the motorcyclist who was filming when he saw the outcome.

According to the Municipal Development Company of Campinas (Emdec), responsible for traffic, the victim died on the spot. Emergency teams closed the left lane of the avenue while the work was carried out and the body was removed. Setec was called to remove the body.

Road safety specialist Marcus Romaro said that the motorcyclist's maneuver was irregular and put his life at risk as well as that of other drivers. "They were playing in traffic, and you don't play in traffic. The maneuver of passing between the car and the median is dangerous and was the cause of the accident," warned Romaro. He also stressed the importance of taking up a car's space within the lane and not performing dangerous maneuvers, known as "sewing" into traffic.

Romaro also stressed the importance of the correct use of safety equipment, especially the helmet. In this case, the impact caused the victim's helmet to come off, suggesting that it might not have been properly secured. "For the helmet to come off, it was most likely not properly fastened," he added.

Emdec regretted the incident and recalled that motorcyclists are the main victims on urban roads. Excessive speed and inappropriate maneuvers are identified as predominant risk factors.