Accident at Saratoga Way and El Dorado Hills
A bicyclist suffered injuries on May 13 in El Dorado Hills when an intersection hit-and-run driver struck them. The collision happened around 6:16 p.m. at Saratoga Way and El Dorado Hills Boulevard. The report by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) stated that it was uncertain whether the bicyclist could describe the car. The fleeing driver is being sought, and determining how the accident occurred is being handled by CHP traffic accident investigators.
Ways in Which a Motorist Causes an Intersection Bicycle Accident
Intersection bicycle accidents occur when a motorist fails to observe the right-of-way laws or is not paying attention while driving. These crashes can be devastating and often lead to serious injury or even death. Common ways in which motorists cause intersection bicycle accidents include:
- Failing to yield the right of way to cyclists at an intersection, crosswalk, or roundabout
- Speeding through intersections without looking for cyclists
- Driving too close to cyclists, which is a violation of the three-foot distance rule
- Not looking both ways before making a turn
- Making illegal turns across bike lanes
- Distracted driving, such as texting while driving, which leads to the failure to notice cyclists
- Not using their turn signals when turning
- Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Ways a Lawyer Locates a Hit-and-Run Driver
After an intersection hit-and-run, injured parties may feel hopeless and overwhelmed. An injury lawyer can help. Through diligent investigation and legal expertise, they may be able to locate the responsible party and maximize the compensation due to their client. Here are some of the ways that a lawyer may go about identifying a hit-and-run driver:
- Interviewing witnesses: Witnesses who saw what happened or have heard rumors may provide valuable information on the identity of an intersection hit-and-run driver. The lawyer will have training in interviewing techniques that allow them to get accurate details from those involved in or aware of an accident.
- Analyzing surveillance footage: If there is surveillance footage from CCTV cameras or other sources, the lawyer reviews it to see if there are clues as to who was driving the vehicle.
- Reviewing insurance records: By reviewing records and speaking with companies that cover drivers in the area, a lawyer may be able to trace the responsible party.
- Investigating social media activity: Sometimes, people post about their involvement in an accident or brag about getting away with an intersection hit-and-run on social media sites. A lawyer can investigate this activity and use it as evidence against drivers who have committed such acts.
Using Uninsured/Underinsured Insurance to Cover Accident Injuries
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) insurance is important coverage if you’re involved in an accident. If the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your medical bills and other expenses, UM coverage can help bridge the gap between what they pay and what you need. It also provides coverage if the intersection hit-and-run driver can’t be found. If you don’t have this coverage but a family member does, that can be used instead. The insurance rates don’t change.
The following tips from attorney Ed Smith will help you hire a lawyer who can provide good representation for your case:
El Dorado Hills Personal Injury Lawyer
I am Ed Smith, an El Dorado Hills personal injury lawyer. In the event of a motor vehicle accident caused by a negligent driver, an injury lawyer may be able to assist you. If you would like free and friendly advice, please call us at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. It is also possible to contact us online.
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Photo attribution: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLQ8I1W1gR8&t=10s; Image by Pexels from Pixabay
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