Elkhorn Boulevard and McDermott Way Site of Bicyclist Injury
On August 19 at a North Highlands intersection, a bicyclist injury resulted after the cyclist was struck by a motor vehicle. The police report by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) stated that the accident occurred around 1:27 in the afternoon at the intersection of Elkhorn Boulevard and McDermott Way. Emergency responders with the Sacramento Fire Department arrived at the scene and discovered that the bicycle rider, described as an adult male, had suffered a major injury.
Bicyclist Injury Accident Under Investigation
The responders transported the bicycle rider to a nearby hospital for evaluation and additional treatment. The driver of the van that struck the cyclist remained at the accident scene. The incident is under investigation by the CHP to determine how the major injury accident occurred.
Dangers of Intersections
Intersections are among the most dangerous places for bicyclists. With traffic coming from multiple directions, danger to a bicyclist can come from anywhere. A lawyer experienced in handling bicycle accidents can help by gathering the evidence needed to support your compensation claim. At my office, we have successfully handled many bicyclist injury accidents by getting our clients the compensation that they deserve.
Bicycle Accidents
The number of bicycle accidents is increasing due to the prevalence of cyclists on the roads. Cyclists face an enormous safety challenge since motorists are often unaware of them. Even though cyclists share the road with motorists and have the same rights, they are often relegated to second-class status. Some of the most common reasons for bicycle accidents are:
- Motoring too close to a bicyclist: In California, drivers are required to stay three feet away from a bicyclist as they pass or ride in the adjacent lane. When this rule is ignored, the motorist puts the cyclist in a dangerous position. Both the driver and the cyclist have little room to move when a collision is imminent.
- Distraction: Motorists who do not focus on the road may not be aware of a bicyclist.
- Reckless drivers: A driver who changes lanes repeatedly may be unable to see a cyclist in his path.
- Speeding drivers: Speeders find it difficult to stop in time to avoid an accident. In cases where the driver is traveling at high speed, the risk of causing serious injuries or death in a collision with a cyclist is high. However, even drivers traveling at a slower speed can cause a bicyclist injury.
- Turning: Many drivers make a turn without looking for a bicyclist in their path. This causes frequent accidents.
Intersection Accident Investigations
Investigators who work for us go to the accident site to gather all the evidence. The evidence is used in negotiations with the insurance company or when presenting a case in court. A few of the areas investigated include:
- The police report is checked for errors.
- Witnesses are interviewed.
- Accident reconstruction is performed. This forensic evidence shows the placement of the vehicle and injured person before and after the accident.
- Surveillance cameras from traffic and other road lights are sought.
- Road damage such as potholes, malfunctioning lights and lighting problems are noted. Signs of lack of maintenance that may have led to an intersection accident means the government entity in charge was lax. That entity can be held responsible.
North Highlands Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a North Highlands personal injury lawyer. A bicycle rider who is injured by a careless driver may be able to place a claim for compensation with a seasoned lawyer’s help. Call (916) 921-6400 if you would like my free and friendly advice. You can also reach me at (800) 404-5400 or by filling out our short form online.
Groups I’m proud to belong to include:
I’ve helped injured people in North Highlands get compensation for their accident injuries since 1982. From traffic collisions to traumatic injuries or wrongful deaths, I work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
Click the links below to learn more:
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/bike-blur-cars-city-cyclist-road-1836934/
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