Cyclist Killed in Hit-and-Run Near I-5
On September 4, 2023, the California Highway Patrol reported that a cyclist was killed in a hit-and-run bicycle accident on El Dorado Street near southbound I-5 in Stockton. The Labor Day crash occurred between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. on the on-ramp for El Dorado Street near Interstate 5, officials reported.
Details on the Hit-and-Run Near I-5 in Stockton That Killed a Cyclist
CHP traffic officers indicated that a bicyclist was struck and killed by a vehicle believed to be a Ford Mustang. The suspect vehicle was described as a 2015 to 2019 model that is gray in color. It is expected to have front-end damage. The suspect driver and vehicle were last reported to be outstanding.
Several parts of the suspect vehicle were recovered by investigators and have been processed at the forensic unit of the Department of Justice. Those with information on the hit-and-run are encouraged to contact the CHP Stockton area office and speak with Officer Tesch.
What is a Wrongful Death Case?
Losing a close relative to the negligence of another individual or entity is painful and devastating. Such losses may be accompanied by feelings of confusion, anger, and frustration. This may cloud a grieving family’s judgment and leave them unsure of how to proceed in their situation. Taking legal action can help surviving family members obtain justice and a sense of closure. This is possible through holding the other side accountable for their actions and the losses they have caused through a wrongful death case.
In the context of a fatal vehicle versus bicycle collision, it is generally the insurance company representing the negligent motorist that covers the losses incurred. If the involved driver fled the crash site, and local law enforcement is unsuccessful in tracking them down, there may be recourse available. This will depend on whether the deceased cyclist has an auto insurance policy with uninsured motorist coverage or lives with a family member who has UM protection. In the latter, a claim for damages may be filed so long as the relative did not list the decedent as an excluded member of the insurance plan.
There is a wide array of reasons why surviving family members must act quickly following the loss of a loved one in a cycling crash. First, California law allows survivors a limited amount of time to file a case in civil court. If a family waits too long to file and does not settle with the insurer within that period, they may lose the right to seek damages, as the court may dismiss the matter. Most cases are subject to a two-year statute of limitations. Moreover, the strength of the case will be dependent on the evidence available. If evidence is not gathered and preserved immediately, it may be destroyed over time.
Do I Have a Wrongful Death Case?
As a surviving family member, you may not have all the answers about your loss and potential case. That is why our legal team at AutoAccident.com is here to help. Understanding the ins and outs of California wrongful death law is our job. Once we learn about your situation, we will provide advice that is compassionate, free, and friendly. Our California wrongful death attorneys are here to obtain the justice and full compensation you and your family deserve. That starts with a phone call. Before reaching out to set up a free case review, watch this video to learn more about our legal team.
Wrongful Death Attorney in Stockton
When sharing Stockton, California, roads with motor vehicles, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists, everyone who is on the roadway is responsible for ensuring the safety of others and following the rules of the road. When an individual or entity fails to uphold that duty and causes harm to others, they may be held accountable for the resulting losses. If you lost someone you love in a bicycle accident or another type of incident, our Stockton wrongful death attorneys are here to listen to your story and provide free, friendly advice. Dial (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.
Picture Attribution: BrettSayles Pexels
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