A bicyclist was struck and killed while riding in a bicycle lane on SR-76 in Oceanside. The crash occurred at 10:55 am when a Honda Accord veered into the bicycle lane striking the cyclist. Paramedics performed CPR on the man, who was airlifted to the hospital where he later died. The driver stayed at the scene of the crash. However, the driver was arrested for driving on a suspended license and for driving a stolen vehicle.
Bicycle Accidents
Accidents between vehicles and bicyclists remain common across the country. There are more vehicles on the road than ever before and there may be more bicycle riders, as well. Many people utilize bicycles to travel to and from work as well as for recreation and exercise. Bicycle lanes have been put in place in many areas to allow bicycle riders their own space away from traffic. In this case, the driver of the vehicle left his lane and entered the bicycle lane, hitting the rider.
Unfortunately, when a vehicle collides with a bike rider or pedestrian, the outcome is often tragic. Bicycle riders may be seriously injured, even when a vehicle is traveling at a relatively slow rate of speed. Among the most common injuries include broken bones, back and neck injuries, and head trauma. Bike riders could suffer brain damage, even if they wear a helmet.
Bicycle Safety
Bicycle riders need to take some precautions to try to stay safe on the roads. The California Department of Motor Vehicles offers four safety tips for bicycle riders. These include maintaining control over the bicycle, wearing a helmet, staying visible, and riding with traffic. Bicycle riders are required to obey the law at all times. For example, they are not allowed to operate a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Riders must ride to the right of traffic when possible and must always ride in the same direction. When riding at night, cyclists must use proper lighting.
Motor vehicle drivers must exercise care when traveling near bicycles. They are required to maintain a distance of at least three feet from the rider. They cannot run a bike rider off the road but instead must slow down and pass only when it is safe to do so. Drivers should watch for cyclists and be aware of their movements. When there is a bicycle lane, motor vehicles are not allowed in it for any reason. In this accident, the driver allegedly drove his car into the bicycle lane.
Accidents with cyclists can result in serious injuries or fatalities. Those who were severely injured could be facing weeks, months, or years of medical treatment and rehabilitation. In some cases, a person could suffer disabling injuries. Victims of bicycle accidents and their families may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs incurred because of a negligent driver. If you were hurt in a vehicle crash contact the Law Office of Patrick G. Shea to discuss your case today.
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