Fleeing Driver Abandons Injured Bicycle Rider
A Sacramento bicycle rider, who was struck by a fleeing driver on April 27, was taken to a local hospital bleeding and unconscious. It was reported by the Sacramento Police Department that the bicyclist had suffered a head injury. The accident occurred at about 2:00 in the morning at T Street and Alhambra Boulevard. The accident investigation is ongoing by local police. However, so far the vehicle has not been identified, and no witnesses to the crash have come forward.
Update to Accident
The bicycle rider has been identified as Francisco Rodriguez. He was found lying face down by a passing driver who called for medical assistance. Rodriguez was taken to UC Davis Medical Center where he underwent surgery for swelling due to a brain injury. According to his mother, Elisa Castellanos, he is sedated and under observation for pneumonia and seizures.
His brother was at the hospital and said that he had been riding with Rodriguez earlier in the evening. The injured bicyclist is a rap singer who performs under the name Paco Via. Along with his family, his fans and friends are praying for his recovery. For a man who is known as one who is kind to everyone, this is a distressing time for all.
The hospital has issued a statement saying that they are looking into why the family was not notified sooner. Rodriguez’ mother said that it was distressing to her and other family members that her son had surgery, and they were not informed.
Accidents After Dark
Bicycle riders are more at risk after dark because they are harder for motorists to spot. Considering over 10,000 California bicycle riders are injured in a collision every year and hundreds killed, it makes sense to take precautions. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, after dark, a bicycle should have a front lamp and reflectors on all sides. It is also a good idea to wear reflective clothing or place strips on your clothing that reflect the light. This helps to make a rider more visible to others.
Dangers of Riding After Dark
While bicycle riders may be doing their best to stay safe while riding after dark, motorists may put them at risk, particularly on weekends. During the early hours of the morning over the weekend, traffic is lighter but people may have been out drinking. Weekends are the times when drunk drivers are more likely to be on the road. Someone who has been drinking is more apt to be a fleeing driver because they know it carries serious repercussions. In addition, the early hours are times when the following negligent behaviors are seen more often:
- Fatigued driving: A motorist who has been out late, perhaps at a gathering or dinner, is more likely to be overly tired. This means they are more likely to miss seeing a bicycle rider.
- Speeding: Because traffic is lighter and there is less police presence, a motorist may be more tempted to speed. However, a bicyclist or pedestrian can be around at any hour. Speeding reduces a motorist’s ability to stop quickly or take evasive action.
- Distracted driving: Talking or texting on a cell phone is a common cause of accidents at any hour. Even momentary distractions can lead to accidents. A fleeing driver may have been using their cell phone when the crash occurred. An experienced lawyer can discover whether the use of a cell phone contributed to the crash.
- Reckless drivers: Running a red light, improper passing, racing and failure to yield are all examples of reckless driving.
- Drugged drivers: Although a drugged driver can be on the road at any time, it is most common on the weekends. Just as a drunk driver might, a fleeing driver may be trying to escape the consequences of his or her actions.
Locating a Hit and Run Driver
Although realizing that a hit and run driver caused your accident injuries is devastating, an experienced lawyer can often locate that motorist. In addition to existing evidence such as the police report and witness accounts, a lawyer has other methods at their disposal. This includes accident reconstruction, forensic specialists and others. However, calling quickly is important before evidence disappears.
Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer. If a fleeing driver caused your injuries, it is important to locate them right away. For free and friendly advice, phone me at (916) 921-6400. Outside the area, you can reach me at (800) 404-5400 or through our online contact form.
Look over some of the cases my law firm has handled and client reviews at:
I’ve been an injury lawyer for 37 years and have obtained compensation for many Sacramento residents. This includes in cases of wrongful death, motorcycle accidents and truck collisions.
I belong to Million Dollar Forum, which is for trial lawyers who’ve obtained over $1 million for a previous client. I am also a member of the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. It only invites as members those lawyers who have the highest standards of excellence in the field of law.
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_86744674_l-2015
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