1620 5th Avenue
The California Highway Patrol has located and arrested a driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run accident with a cyclist.
The 44-year-old victim was discovered on the side of a road, gravely injured. He passed away at the scene. Police officers did not find a bike near the victim, but were able to find a trail of debris. About a mile away, they found the missing bicycle as well as the SUV that hit the cyclist. The SUV’s owner was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run, vehicular manslaughter and destruction of evidence. There were no signs that the driver was impaired.
Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accidents in California
Why do drivers flee the scene of accidents involving bicyclists? Maybe they flee because they don’t have insurance. Maybe they flee because they are intoxicated. Some drivers may have outstanding warrants or are driving on a suspended license. Some flee simply because they can. Or perhaps they say they didn’t notice they had hit anyone. Whatever the reason, fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime in California.
If you are hit by a car while cycling in California, the first thing you should do is call 911, or have a witness do so if you are unable. Immediate medical treatment should be your first priority. Afterwards, you should discuss the incident with the police as well as a personal injury attorney. An attorney is your best bet for seeking damages to cover things like medical costs, lost wages and pain and suffering.
1620 5th Avenue