Note: Our firm’s mission is to help people injured in accidents. Because we do this work, we see the consequences of these accidents on the victims and the families. Through these articles, we aim to foster a safer community and provide support to those affected by such tragedies.
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Asheville, NC (April 01, 2025) - According to local news reports, a fatal motorcycle accident occurred on New Leicester Highway, leading to the death of a 69-year-old man from Candler and resulting in criminal charges against another driver. Authorities confirmed that the crash happened at approximately 2:24 p.m. near the 320 block of New Leicester Highway.
The Asheville Police Department stated that Norman Lawrence Murray was riding a 2008 Honda VT750C Shadow motorcycle, traveling southbound toward Patton Avenue, when a 2014 Toyota Scion attempted a left turn into a parking lot. During this maneuver, the Scion collided with the motorcycle. The driver of the Toyota was later identified as 63-year-old Lisa Gonce Payne of Asheville.
Murray sustained critical injuries in the collision and was transported to Mission Hospital, where he died from his injuries on April 2. His next of kin were notified, according to police. The tragic incident marks the fourth motor vehicle-related fatality within Asheville city limits in 2025, following what officials described as a record-setting year for traffic deaths in 2024.
Following a thorough investigation and consultation with the Buncombe County District Attorney's Office, police charged Payne with misdemeanor death by vehicle and failure to yield during a left turn. On April 4, Payne turned herself in at the Buncombe County Detention Facility and was released under a written promise to appear in court. Her first court date is scheduled for May 7, as per court records.
This incident comes on the heels of other recent motorcycle-related tragedies in the Asheville area. In February, three motorcyclists lost their lives in a single week — two of those incidents occurred within the city, while another took place in Swannanoa.
Police are urging anyone with information regarding the April 1 collision to contact the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110. Anonymous tips may be submitted via text by sending TIP2APD to 847411 or through the TIP2APD app, available by searching “Asheville PD” in mobile app stores.
Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in Asheville, NC After an Accident
When someone suffers an injury in an accident, it’s not just physical pain they’re left to manage. Medical bills, time away from work, and insurance calls quickly follow, adding stress to an already difficult time. That’s why hiring a personal injury attorney in Asheville, NC, can be a key decision in protecting your rights and moving forward with confidence.
A local attorney who focuses on personal injury understands how North Carolina laws apply to your situation. Whether it’s a slip and fall, vehicle collision, or wrongful death case, they work to make sure victims aren’t taken advantage of by insurance companies or other parties. Instead of dealing with the headache of paperwork and deadlines on your own, a personal injury lawyer helps simplify the legal process.
Most importantly, working with a personal injury attorney in Asheville means you don’t have to guess about your next steps. These professionals break everything down clearly and advocate for your best interests. From gathering evidence to handling settlement negotiations, their goal is to lift the weight off your shoulders so you can focus on healing.
Free consultations are often available, so it costs nothing to learn more about your options. If you’ve been hurt in an accident, reaching out could make a real difference in what comes next for you and your family.
What a Personal Injury Lawyer in Asheville Can Do for You
A personal injury lawyer in Asheville, NC, takes on many roles to support clients. After an accident, the first thing many people need is answers—what are their rights, who pays for their bills, and how long will it all take? An experienced attorney helps answer those questions while working to build a strong case that reflects the full impact of your injuries.
From the very start, your lawyer gathers key information, including police reports, witness statements, medical records, and any photo or video evidence. They also speak directly with insurance companies, pushing for fair compensation that truly accounts for both current and future costs. This could include lost income, pain and suffering, and ongoing medical care.
Having someone on your side who understands the system and communicates clearly gives clients peace of mind. It allows them to focus on healing or supporting their loved ones without worrying about missing a deadline or saying the wrong thing to an adjuster. For many, that support is just as valuable as the outcome itself.
Working With a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Asheville, NC
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, and the legal process following one can be especially complicated. That’s why many people choose to work with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Asheville, NC, after a crash. These legal professionals know the unique challenges motorcycle riders face and how to hold negligent drivers accountable when a rider gets hurt.
Unlike other types of vehicle accidents, motorcycle crashes can involve more severe injuries and greater financial impacts. A lawyer who focuses on motorcycle accidents will understand how to present these cases in a way that truly reflects the rider’s experience. They also understand how to investigate and prove fault, especially when it involves complex scenarios like left-turn collisions or distracted driving.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle crash in Asheville, working with a knowledgeable attorney means you don’t have to go it alone. They’ll walk you through the claims process, help calculate damages, and negotiate with the other party’s insurance to seek full and fair compensation.
Why Experience Matters in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Handling a motorcycle accident case takes more than just general legal knowledge. These types of claims often include questions about speed, visibility, road conditions, and driver behavior. A seasoned Asheville motorcycle accident lawyer knows what to look for and how to build a strong case that connects the facts to your injuries and losses.
They also understand how insurance companies operate. When insurers try to reduce or deny valid claims, your attorney steps in to push back with the right evidence and legal strategy. This can make a big difference in the outcome of your case, whether it’s settled out of court or taken to trial.
Having local knowledge is also a huge plus. An Asheville-based motorcycle accident lawyer will be familiar with the area, local traffic patterns, and court procedures, which helps them move your case forward more efficiently. If you're facing the aftermath of a motorcycle crash, reaching out to a trusted attorney could be one of the smartest choices you make.
Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Smart Choice for Motorcycle Accident Cases in Asheville
Motorcycle accidents like the recent tragedy on New Leicester Highway are not only heartbreaking but can leave families feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. When the unexpected happens, having a reliable legal team who understands the challenges of motorcycle-related cases in North Carolina makes a difference. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers, a trusted personal injury law firm based in Charlotte, NC, offers guidance and support to those facing the aftermath of such events.
These attorneys work closely with clients throughout North Carolina, including Asheville, to help them understand their rights and options. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident or lost a loved one in one, it’s important to speak with someone who truly knows how to handle personal injury law and wrongful death claims involving motorcycles. The legal system can be confusing, but having a team that focuses on this type of case can take a lot off your plate.
It only takes one phone call to begin exploring your options. Whether you're dealing with hospital bills, lost income, or trying to understand your legal rights, reaching out for a free consultation at 1-704-714-1450 can be the first step toward clarity. With the support of a personal injury lawyer in Asheville, NC, families can begin to move forward with trusted legal backing.
How an Asheville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Support Your Case
Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Asheville Motorcycle Accident Case
After a motorcycle crash, the road ahead can feel uncertain. That’s where a personal injury law firm in North Carolina like Rosensteel Fleishman comes in. They handle the legal complexities while clients focus on recovery or supporting family members through loss. From start to finish, the goal is to make things easier—not harder—for those already dealing with so much.
Here are a few key ways an experienced Asheville motorcycle accident attorney can help:
- Evaluate your case to determine if compensation is possible
- Handle all communications with insurance companies
- Gather evidence and police records to build a strong case
- Explain your rights in simple, understandable language
- Represent you in negotiations or court if needed
Having someone in your corner who’s familiar with Asheville law and procedures ensures no detail gets overlooked.
What Does an Asheville Accident Lawyer Do? How Can They Help?
An accident lawyer plays many roles after a motorcycle crash. At Rosensteel Fleishman, attorneys focus on guiding clients through what often feels like unfamiliar territory. They handle everything from talking to insurance adjusters to filing paperwork, all while aiming to reduce stress for those affected.
For example, if the insurance company isn’t offering a fair settlement—or if the at-fault driver is denying responsibility—your lawyer can step in and negotiate. If negotiations don’t work, they’re also ready to represent you in court. Most importantly, they’ll explain everything along the way in everyday terms, so you always know what’s happening with your case.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Motorcycle Accident in Asheville, NC
A personal injury attorney in Asheville, NC, can be a key resource when someone is injured or killed in a motorcycle crash. In situations like the New Leicester Highway incident, where a driver failed to yield and caused a fatal collision, an attorney helps make sure justice is pursued through legal channels.
They can help surviving family members file a wrongful death claim or assist an injured motorcyclist in recovering financial damages for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With experience in similar cases, the team at Rosensteel Fleishman can quickly identify the steps to take and advocate for the compensation a family or individual deserves.
Legal Support for Families Affected by the Asheville Motorcycle Accident
The tragic accident that claimed the life of Norman Lawrence Murray has left a lasting impact on his loved ones and the local community. When a crash like this occurs, the emotional toll is often matched by financial uncertainty, unanswered questions, and legal complications. That’s where legal professionals like those at Rosensteel Fleishman can step in to provide meaningful help.
Families navigating grief should not also have to struggle with paperwork, court procedures, and difficult insurance conversations. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Asheville, NC, can handle those burdens on behalf of the family, giving them the space they need to grieve and heal. Whether pursuing a wrongful death claim or simply seeking information about what happens next, legal guidance is crucial.
Rosensteel Fleishman works with families from the start to explain their rights in simple terms. If there’s a chance to pursue compensation—whether to cover funeral costs, medical bills, or other losses—they’ll help identify it and explain the options. Their approach is about listening, explaining, and then acting in a way that supports the family’s best interest every step of the way.
Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina
When people in North Carolina need legal support after a motorcycle crash or personal injury, Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers is a trusted choice. Based in Charlotte and serving clients across the state—including in Asheville—they’re known for their straightforward, responsive service and their ability to take on cases that matter deeply to individuals and families.
What sets this firm apart is how approachable and down-to-earth their team is. They listen closely to what clients are going through, then guide them step by step. Whether someone is recovering from injuries or coping with the loss of a loved one, they offer clear communication and focused legal support.
As attorney Corey Rosensteel says, “We’re here to give people clarity when things feel uncertain. You don’t have to figure everything out alone.”
If you’re in Asheville or anywhere in North Carolina and need a personal injury lawyer, Rosensteel Fleishman can provide the legal help you need—without pressure or confusion.
Start Your Free Consultation With a North Carolina Injury Lawyer Today
Taking that first step doesn’t need to be difficult. If you or someone close to you has been impacted by a motorcycle crash or personal injury in Asheville, reach out to a team that understands both the law and what you’re going through. Rosensteel Fleishman offers free consultations and takes the time to explain your options in a way that makes sense.
To get started, just call 1-704-714-1450. Whether you're looking for a motorcycle accident attorney in Asheville, NC, or a personal injury law firm in North Carolina, the support you need is just one phone call away.
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