Livingston Man Critically Injured in Motorcycle Accident, LEGGETT, May 10, 2009 - At approximately 2 am on May 10, 2009 a red 2003 Yamaha Royal Star Motorcycle driven by Michael Benson, 52, of Livingston was north-east bound on FM-942 when he struck a small deer that ran in front of his path. Benson was thrown from his motorcycle and landed in the right lane of 942. DPS Troopers David Morris and Darwon Evans were dispatched to the scene along with Deputies Sergeant Rob Thomas and Jerry Lange along the Livingston Volunteer Fire Department and Americare Ambulance Service. Benson sustained serious head injuries and other injuries and was treated at the scene and loaded onto an ambulance. Life-Flight was called, however, due to unstable weather conditions was not able to fly. Benson was transported to Livingston Memorial Hospital. There was a smell of alcohol coming from the crash and pending toxicology reports, Benson could be charged with driving while intoxicated. Benson did have insurance. All traffic in 942 was blocked during investigation and cleanup. A rollback wrecker from Ken's Towing recovered Benson's motorcycle and it will be stored at Harrison's Body Shop in Livingston. At time of press, the status of Benson's health is not known to PolkCountyToday.com. The scene was cleared and traffic fully flowing by 3:15 am.
DPS Trooper David Morris (right) and Polk County Sheriff's Deputy Jerry Lange
Michael Benson's motorcycle struck this deer causing him to lose control. The deer was killed on impact.
Benson was transported to Livingston Memorial Hospital.
DPS Trooper David Morris investigates.
Benson's Motorcycle was recovered by Ken's Towing.
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