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Bountiful— A 19-year-old man is in critical condition following a motorcycle accident late Friday night on Bountiful Boulevard.
Jayden Rich was injured when a car made a sudden U-turn in front of him, causing him to collide with the vehicle. Authorities said he is currently at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, where he is in a medically induced coma.
Rich was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, which doctors noted likely prevented more severe injuries. Family members reported he is showing signs of improvement, although he remains unable to communicate. His sisters, Sadie and Alison, expressed hope despite the severity of his condition.
The accident occurred around 11:30 p.m. Friday, involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle. Utah Department of Public Safety officials indicated motorcycle fatalities have surged nearly 80% compared to last year.
Authorities are urging increased caution among both motorists and motorcyclists as the warmer weather leads to more riders on the road. “People need to pay attention and slow down,” said Jason Mettmann from the DPS accident office.
The family has set up a GoFundMe page to assist with Jayden’s medical costs.