Motorcycle vs bus accident kills Brian Franklin in West Des Moines

clock Created with Sketch Beta. April 23, 2026
Motorcycle vs bus accident kills Brian Franklin in West Des Moines

WEST DES MOINES, IA, (April 21, 2026) – A motorcycle crash involving a school bus Tuesday afternoon in West Des Moines claimed the life of a local man, authorities said.

The incident occurred just before 4:30 p.m. in the 3000 block of EP True Parkway. According to the West Des Moines Police Department, 51-year-old Brian Franklin was operating a motorcycle that collided with a bus belonging to the West Des Moines Community Schools.

Franklin was transported to an area hospital following the crash, where he later died from his injuries.

Officials said the bus driver and the six passengers on board were not injured. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators.

The West Des Moines Police Traffic Unit is handling the case, which remains under active investigation.


MOTORCYCLE CRASH INVESTIGATION

In 2023, motorcycle fatalities in the United States reached 6,335, accounting for 15% of all traffic deaths, marking the highest level since 1975, according to the NHTSA. With a fatality rate of 31.39 per 100 million miles traveled, improving driver awareness and road safety remains essential.

“Motorcyclists are among the most exposed and vulnerable users on the road,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Even relatively minor crashes can result in severe or fatal injuries, making vigilance critical for all drivers.”

Bond, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, emphasized that in cases like this, an independent investigation conducted by a qualified attorney is crucial to protect the rights of the victim’s family.

“Factors such as blind spots, driver inexperience, and distraction frequently contribute to these types of crashes. An attorney can act as an advocate, guiding families through a difficult time while ensuring accountability if traffic laws were violated,” Bond added.


WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

Pending the outcome of the investigation, the family of Brian Franklin may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim. Families of wrongful death victims may seek compensation for loss of companionship, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.

“The emotional toll after losing a loved one in a crash can be overwhelming,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.

“We understand the challenges families face, and protecting their rights is essential. A wrongful death attorney can monitor the investigation and help ensure that the family’s legal rights and best interests are safeguarded throughout the process.”


(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)


Accident Injury News' national legal analyst Candice Bond is experienced in motorcycle accidents, and if you or a family member need help, she is available for a free consultation to guide you

(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).

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