Motorcyclist sustains major injuries in collision

FALLBROOK — The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has reported that motorcyclist Vincente Salazar, 34, of Fallbrook, sustained major injuries to his head as the result of a head-on collision with a car September 11, shortly after 2 p.m., on State Route 76.

CHP officer Bill Strom said a witness observed Salazar when he failed to stop at a red light at the corner of Old Highway 395, after which he proceeded to turn and travel westbound on SR76. Shortly thereafter, officials say Salazar, who was driving a 2007 Buell motorcycle traveling at a speed of 55 to 60 mph, crossed over the double yellow lines into the eastbound lane.

Salazar collided head-on with Wayne Harris, 52, of Fountain Valley, who was driving a 1998 Saturn sedan in the eastbound lane. Harris was estimated to be traveling at approximately 40 mph.

As a result of the collision, officers say Salazar, who was not wearing a protective helmet, was thrown 90 feet in the air and landed on his head. Salazar was transported via Mercy Air to Palomar Medical Center for treatment of major injuries.

Officers say Harris did not appear to be injured in the collision.