Motorcyclist avoids serious injury after I-5 accident

MARYSVILLE — A blown-out tire on a motorcycle caused a dangerous situation Monday afternoon on I-5.

The bike’s driver, a Marysville man, 57, tried to get to the shoulder of the freeway after a tire blew, Washington State Patrol trooper Keith Leary said.

The driver of a 2002 Toyota Camry tried to avoid hitting the 2001 Suzuki motorcycle but clipped the bike and sent the rider tumbling, Leary said.

The motorcyclist suffered only minor injuries and refused aid, Leary said. He was given a ticket for defective equipment because the bike’s tires were so worn the steel cords were visible.

“Motorcycle riders and car drivers need to make sure vehicles are properly maintained,” Leary said. “Tire care is a commonly overlooked item that is very import when it comes to vehicle control.”