Haywood County, NC (September 18, 2026) - Jason Marcus Hughes, 55, of Canton, was pronounced dead at the scene of a motorcycle collision on U.S. 23/74 in Haywood County, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 12:19 p.m. Friday.

Troopers said a Honda CR-V failed to yield the right of way and struck the Harley-Davidson motorcycle Hughes was driving. Hughes was traveling west near mile marker 97.

After the collision, the motorcycle went off the left side of the road and hit a guardrail before stopping, according to troopers.

The Highway Patrol identified the Honda driver as Lola Pauline Ernesti, 82, of Waynesville, and reported that she was charged with failure to yield the right of way and misdemeanor death by vehicle. Troopers said they did not suspect impairment.

Legal Questions After a Fatal Motorcycle Collision

Jason Marcus Hughes’s family may have questions about the collision, the charges reported by troopers and the losses caused by his death. A criminal charge does not by itself determine the outcome of a civil claim. The evidence about the right-of-way violation and the sequence of the collision would need to be reviewed.

A motorcycle accident lawyer can explain what information is available and what further investigation may be needed. Family members do not have to resolve responsibility themselves before seeking advice.

Support for a Family After a Sudden Loss

Friends and relatives can offer support privately and respect the family’s wishes about updates and contact. Legal questions following the collision can be addressed separately, at a pace that allows the family to understand its options.