California Injury Blog
A horrific hit-and-run crash involving a vehicle and bicyclist was caught on video and released by the LAPD with hopes of identifying the driver.
According to a CBS Los Angeles news report, LAPD is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the driver’s arrest.
The incident occurred on the afternoon of Jan. 16 when a 28-year-old bicyclist traveling south on Glendale Boulevard approaching Allesandro Street was rear-ended by a silver Hyundai Elantra. The bicyclist was thrown onto the street and the vehicle ran over the bicycle.
Felony Hit and Run
The driver continued southbound on Glendale Boulevard and was last seen driving west on Berkley Avenue from Allesandro, police said, adding that the driver could have gone to the left to avoid the collision, but it’s not clear why the driver ended up rear-ending the bicyclist. Officials also said the victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was lucky to escape with his life.
The suspect vehicle, a 2012 to 2016 Hyundai Elantra is likely to have right front-end damage and might be missing its right front hubcap. Officials said the driver could have avoided criminal charges if it were determined this was an accident. Now, it will be treated as a felony hit-and-run. Anyone with more information is asked to contact LAPD at 213-833-3713.
We are relieved to note that the bicyclist in this case escaped with injuries. We wish him the best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
California Vehicle Code Section 20001(a) states that all motorists involved in an injury or fatal collision must stop immediately at the scene of a crash, wait for authorities to arrive, exchange pertinent information with other parties, and most importantly, render aid to the injured victims. A failure to follow this law is a felony crime, regardless of whose fault the accident was.
If you have been injured in a hit-and-run crash, it is important that you seek the counsel of an experienced Los Angeles hit-and-run lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and help protect your legal rights and best interests. A knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer will also be able to advise how to approach a case where the at-fault driver is never identified or in a case where the driver is uninsured or underinsured.
Source: https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2022/02/02/bicyclist-dragged-by-vehicle-in-felony-hit-and-run/