Carmichael Crosswalk Accident
A Carmichael crosswalk accident happened on April 27 that left a teenage boy riding a bicycle with major injuries. The accident happened along Fair Oaks Boulevard close to Palm Drive at around 8:40 in the evening. The injury to the boy, 15, occurred when a Volkswagen Jetta, that was traveling north, ran through a red traffic light, striking the boy. The impact of the collision threw the young man off his bicycle where he collided with the Volkswagen’s windshield.
Bicycle Rider Was Legally Crossing
According to the report issued by the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the bicycle rider had a green light and was crossing the street on a marked crosswalk when the accident happened. Police have said that as of Monday night, the teen was listed in critical condition at a nearby hospital, where he was transported for treatment. The teenager was reported as not wearing clothing that would have made him more visible to motorists. He was also not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. The driver involved in the Carmichael crosswalk accident stayed at the scene and was cooperative in the police investigation. Neither alcohol nor drugs appeared to be a factor in the crash.
Bicycle Collisions
Just last November, a Carmichael man was riding a bicycle at Winding Way and Rampart Drive when he was killed by a motorist. Another bicyclist was injured last June in a crash at the intersection of Madison and Manzanita avenues after being struck by a vehicle. Sacramento County itself does not fair well when it comes to accidents involving motor vehicles and bicycle riders. The California Office of Traffic Safety reported that in 2016, there were 584 accidents involving vehicles and bicycles that caused either injuries or fatalities. Many of these occurred at intersections such as the Carmichael crosswalk accident, and the fault was due to negligent motorists.
How Motorist Negligence Contributes to a Bicycle Accident
Because a bicyclist has little protection against injuries when struck by a motor vehicle, both the rider and driver have to take needed precautions to avoid a deadly accident. Some ways in which a motorist is negligent, which can lead to a Carmichael crosswalk accident, are as follows:
- Running a red light or stop sign: This is a common cause of all types of intersection accidents. Failure to stop at an intersection with a stop sign or red light is a form of reckless driving. It can cause a serious Carmichael crosswalk accident.
- Speeding: Among the counties in California, Sacramento ranks third highest in the number of speeders. If speeding causes an accident, the responsible party may be held liable for injuries or fatalities.
- Distracted driving: Talking or texting on a cell phone is a common cause of distracted driving. Taking your eyes off the road, even momentarily, can lead to a devastating accident.
- Fatigued driving: Drivers who are overly tired can lose their concentration on the road ahead and miss seeing a bicyclist or pedestrian crossing an intersection.
- Drugged or drunk driving: Those who are under the influence of alcohol or other substances are a danger to others.
Seeking Legal Advice
When a bicycle rider or motorist has been injured through the negligent actions of another, they may claim fair compensation for injuries and other costs. Personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation to answer questions and tell you whether you have a case. An experienced injury lawyer can work with the insurance company on your behalf or prepare a strong case to present in civil court.
Carmichael Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Carmichael car accident lawyer. If you or a loved one were injured in a car or bicycle crash with a negligent driver, I have free and friendly advice to offer you. Contact me at (916) 921-6400 locally. I also offer a toll-free line at (800) 404-5400 as well as a contact form online.
I’ve helped Carmichael residents for 37 years to obtain the injury compensation they need and deserve. Areas that I work in include traumas such as brain injuries, motorcycle collisions and all kinds of car accidents.
Two groups that I am particularly honored to belong to are:
- National Association of Distinguished Counsel: This group was set up to honor the lawyers who uphold the highest legal standards.
- Million Dollar Forum: Only trial lawyers who’ve obtained more than $1 million for a client can join.
Look over my clients’ reviews and some cases my firm has handled at:
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_54647385_l-2015
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