Jordan Rapp, 29, sustained major injuries in a Ventura car accident after his bicycle was struck by a driver who turned in front of him the evening of March 23, 2010. The Ventura County Star reports that Rapp, a professional triathlete, was riding his bicycle north on Lewis Road near University Drive, in Camarillo. Officials say, at that moment the driver of the other vehicle turned left, directly, in front of Rapp’s bike. Rapp was thrown to the ground in the collision. However, the driver did not stop at the scene. Police are looking for the hit-and-run driver. The vehicle has a shattered left window and possible body damage on the left side. Anyone with information is asked to Lt. Casey Cronin at 805-477-4100 or leave an anonymous tip at 1-800-6-Hit-N-Run (800-644-8678).
I sympathize with Rapp and his family for this horrific accident. Rapp is not only a champion triathlete, but also apparently a kind-hearted man who rode to raise money for underprivileged children. I hope his injuries were not catastrophic and that he can continue being the true champion that he is. Rapp and his family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Bicycle Accidents
There were no fatalities, but 21 injuries as a result of bicycle accidents in Camarillo, according to CHP’s 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Ventura County as a whole, bicycle accidents claimed two lives and injured 307 people in 2008.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
California Vehicle Code section 20001states: “The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.” I hope that this hit-and-run driver is apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Liability Issues
Rapp may be unable to pursue his career for an extended period of time due to this horrific crash, although I hope that is not the case. He would be able to seek compensation to cover medical expenses, lost earnings, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and other related damages. Rapp would certainly benefit from a consultation with an experienced California personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that the victim’s rights are protected. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also advise victims and their families, about how their own car insurance policy applies to an incident involving a hit-and-run driver, or an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
The Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.