Intersection Bicycle Accident in Rio Linda
A bicycle accident injury occurred on June 20 in Rio Linda after the rider was struck by a motor vehicle. The collision occurred at Rio Linda Boulevard and Elkhorn Boulevard at around 1:38 in the morning and was reported by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Sacramento Metro Fire was called to the accident scene where they discovered one injured person, who was riding a bicycle when the incident occurred.
Rider Hospitalized With Bicycle Accident Injury
That individual was taken by emergency responders to a nearby hospital for further evaluation and treatment. The condition of the bicycle rider was not released. The motorist who struck the rider stayed at the accident scene and was cooperative with the investigators into the crash.
Lack of Conspicuity
The reasons bicycle accidents occur vary, however, one of the main reasons is because motorists are unaware a cyclist is present. Even though this seems unrealistic, motorists are looking for other vehicles. This phenomenon is known as intentional blindness and occurs frequently. Basically, the driver can be looking at the bicyclist, but their mind does not register the cyclist’s presence.
Looked But Failed to See Crashes
Every moment, our brains are bombarded with a tremendous amount of data. However, to avoid sensory overload, our brains filter out the information it feels is unnecessary. Experts believe that driver ed courses should place emphasis on learning to expand our focus when driving to include bicycles, motorcycles and pedestrians.
Reasons Bicycle Accident Injuries Occur
Some common reasons bicycle accidents occur are:
- Sideswiping: When the driver is too close to a cyclist, it is possible for them to sideswipe the bicyclist. In California, a driver is required to obey the three-foot rule and give the cyclist enough room.
- Dooring accident: Motorists who are parked along the road often open their doors to exit the vehicle without looking. When they do this, they set the stage for a serious bicycle accident.
- Hitting a bicycle in the rear: This type of bicycle accident occurs when a driver is distracted and hits the cyclist from behind, usually at a stop sign. It can cause the cyclist serious or fatal injuries.
- Driving in front of a bicyclist: A driver who crosses in front of a bicyclist is setting the stage for an accident. It often happens at an intersection or when the driver is exiting an alley or a driveway. Usually, the bicycle has already entered an intersection. This places the liability on the driver who is distracted or looked and failed to see the cyclist. From a cyclist’s standpoint, it is important to be as visible as possible.
- Turning right at an intersection: Drivers who are turning right can cross in front of an oncoming bicyclist. It is important for motorists to check their blind spots before proceeding.
Investigating a Bicycle Accident at an Intersection
When our firm is investigating a bicycle accident, we dispatch our investigators to the site of the incident as soon as possible. They speak to witnesses and obtain video footage from traffic surveillance cameras. Our investigators also check police reports for mistakes since they are widely used in insurance negotiations and in court. Once all evidence is compiled, our lawyers are able to use it to build a strong case for our client.
Rio Linda Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Rio Linda personal injury lawyer. Bicycle accidents commonly cause serious injuries, but an experienced accident lawyer can help the injured person recover damages if negligence was the cause. I can be reached for my free and friendly advice at (916) 921-6400 or long-distance at (800) 404-5400. You can also contact me by using the online form.
The following links lead to client reviews and cases my law firm has handled:
I am a member of the Top 1 Percent and the Million Dollar Forum.
I’ve successfully handled many injury accidents for residents of Rio Linda in my 38 years being an injury lawyer, including cases involving traumas, traffic collisions, brain injuries and wrongful deaths.
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_11765047_l-2015
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