Personal Injury Law

Bicyclist Injured In Rancho Bernardo Hit And Run Car Accident

By Ross Jurewitz

A bicyclist suffered serious injuries in a San Diego hit and run car accident that occurred on October 15, 2010, around 8:00 p.m. According to the San Diego Police, this auto accident occurred on Pomerado Road near the intersection with Caminito Vecinos.

San Diego Police Officer David Stafford said that the injured bicycle rider, a man in his 40s, was riding his bike when he was struck from behind by a car near. The bicyclist suffered a fractured vertebrae, along with several bruises and scrapes. Stafford said that the bicycle rider had a six pack of beer in his bag, had been drinking, and would not provide his personal information to the investigating officers..

The investigating police officers believe that the damaged pieces of the hit and run vehicle will provide some clue about the car and help them trace the owner. From the present facts, it is clear that the hit and run car driver struck the bicyclist, whether or not the bicyclist was impaired or driving carelessly. The bicyclist here has also violated California Vehicle Code Section 23152(a) which states that ?It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.? This law applies regardless of whether you are operating a motor vehicle or a bicycle.

The investigating officers need to determine why this San Diego motor vehicle accident occurred. From the facts reported, it appears that both the driver and bicyclist share some responsibility for causing the traffic accident. First, the car driver by fleeing from the accident scene showed irresponsible behavior and if found guilty will be held liable, in part, for the cyclist?s injuries. Leaving the scene of an injury accident is a serious violation under California Vehicle Code 20001. The bicyclist, even if partially responsible for causing the accident, can seek compensation for the cost of medical treatment, hospitalization costs, and other accident related damages. The degree to which the bicyclist is responsible for causing his own injuries will reduce his recovery through the legal theory of comparative negligence.

We recommend the injured cyclist seek assistance from an experienced Rancho Bernardo bicycle accident lawyer who could help him get a fair compensation for the injuries hesuffered. We sincerely hope that the injured bicyclist did not suffer any life threatening injuries and recovers From his injuries soon.

Full post as published by San Diego Injury Lawyer Blog on October 18, 2010 (boomark / email).