March 24, 2025

Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.

Incident Overview
An 18-year-old man from Fortitude Valley tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on Hawthorne Road, Hawthorne, on the evening of March 23, 2025. The incident occurred when the motorcycle he was riding left the roadway and collided with a stationary, unoccupied utility vehicle. Emergency services responded promptly, but the rider succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Location and Time
The crash occurred at approximately 7:40 PM on March 23, 2025, along the southbound lanes of Hawthorne Road in Hawthorne. The collision took place near a section of the road where the motorcycle reportedly veered off the asphalt and struck a parked utility.

Vehicles Involved

  • A motorcycle operated by the 18-year-old male rider from Fortitude Valley.
  • An unoccupied utility (ute) parked on the roadside, which sustained significant damage during the collision.

Crash Description
The motorcycle was traveling south on Hawthorne Road when, for reasons still under investigation, it departed the roadway and collided with the rear section of the parked utility. The force of the impact caused critical injuries to the rider, who was the sole occupant of the motorcycle. The utility, which was legally parked and unoccupied at the time, sustained extensive damage to its rear bumper and tailgate.

Injuries/Fatalities
The 18-year-old rider sustained catastrophic injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene by attending paramedics. No other individuals were involved or injured in the crash.

Emergency Response
Queensland Police and emergency services were dispatched to Hawthorne Road immediately following reports of the collision. Paramedics conducted life-saving procedures, but the rider’s injuries proved fatal. The Forensic Crash Unit secured the area to document evidence, including vehicle positioning, skid marks, and debris.

Investigation
The Queensland Police Service’s Forensic Crash Unit has launched a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Key areas of focus include:

  • The rider’s speed and possible mechanical issues with the motorcycle.
  • Environmental factors, such as road surface conditions or visibility at the time of the crash.
  • Whether rider inexperience or external distractions contributed to the incident.

Investigators are also reviewing nearby CCTV footage and appealing for witnesses to provide statements.
Witnesses/Appeals
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the crash, has dashcam footage, or observed the motorcycle’s movements prior to the incident to contact Policelink at 131 444 or submit information online. Anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via their website, referencing case number QP2500498543.

Community Impact
The crash has prompted renewed discussions about motorcycle safety in Hawthorne, particularly among young riders. Local residents have expressed concern over the risks posed by parked vehicles in high-traffic areas and the need for enhanced road safety measures.

Contributing Factors
While the investigation is ongoing, potential factors under scrutiny include:

  • Excessive speed or loss of control by the rider.
  • Road design or signage adequacy near the crash site.
  • Possible mechanical failure of the motorcycle.