Michael W. Lewis killed in motorcycle crash on Highway 64

RURAL FAULKNER, Ark—Jacksonville man killed in Highway 64 motorcycle crash

On August 30, 2025 at 3:50 p.m., Arkansas State Police responded to a fatal motorcycle crash on U.S. Highway 64 at Rooster Road in rural Faulkner County.

Investigators say a 2010 Harley-Davidson motorcycle was stopped at an intersection when a 2019 Chevrolet traveling east struck the motorcycle from behind.

Fatality: Michael W. Lucas, 57, of Jacksonville, the driver of the motorcycle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

No other injuries were reported. The victim’s body was held at the Faulkner County Coroner’s Office. Weather was clear, and the roadway was dry.

Note: Crash summaries released by Arkansas State Police are preliminary and may be updated as investigations continue.

Arkansas wrongful death law after a motorcycle crash

Under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-62-102, Arkansas families may pursue wrongful death claims for damages such as funeral expenses, lost income, and the loss of companionship. Claims must generally be filed within three years of the date of death.

A companion survival action under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-62-101 allows the estate to recover damages such as medical costs and pain the victim may have experienced prior to death.Why evidence from the crash scene matters

Why motorcycle crashes demand close investigation

Motorcycle fatalities often involve visibility issues, distracted driving, or failure to yield. Attorneys investigate crash reports, eyewitness testimony, skid mark analysis, and vehicle inspection results to determine liability. Evidence preservation is especially critical in rear-end collisions like this one.

Arkansas wrongful death attorneys serving Faulkner County

At Ludwig Law Firm, our wrongful death lawyers prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. In fatal accident cases, we often coordinate with Harry Warden of Warden Law Firm, a Super Lawyers Rising Star, when a case needs added trial strength. Together, we provide Arkansas families with both compassionate representation and aggressive courtroom advocacy.

What families should do after a fatal motorcycle crash in Arkansas

1. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect deadlines.

2. Gather funeral records, photos, and witness information.

3. Preserve the motorcycle and vehicle involved for inspection.

4. Avoid recorded insurance statements without legal counsel.

5. Ask your lawyer to obtain Arkansas State Police reports and crash reconstruction.

Our Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help

If your family has lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com. We fight for accountability and justice in wrongful death cases across Arkansas.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Arkansas?
A. Usually the personal representative or statutory beneficiaries named by law.

Q. How long do families have to file?
A. Three years from the date of death, unless an exception applies.

Q. Does a survival action differ from wrongful death?
A. Yes. A survival action belongs to the estate and recovers damages the deceased could have claimed if they had survived.