California Injury Blog
A man suffered serious head injuries after the bicycle he was riding was struck by a pickup truck on Sea World Drive, ABC News reports in this article. The accident occurred the morning of February 16, 2009 near Friars Road when the eastbound pickup driver apparently looked down to pick up something and then drifted into the bike lane, hitting the cyclist from behind. Officials have not arrested the driver of the pickup driver but say that he may be cited for not paying attention.
My heart goes out to the injured bicyclist who is suffering now and possibly fighting for his life because someone else was negligent and not paying attention to his surroundings and the road. I wish the injured victim the very best for a quick and complete recovery.
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2006 statistics, in the city of San Diego, there were three fatalities and 390 injuries as a result of bicycle accidents. In San Diego County as a whole, there were seven deaths and 800 injuries as a result of bicycle accidents during the same period. Bicycle accidents are hardly ever solo accidents. Almost all bicycle accidents involve a collision either with a passenger vehicle, bus, big rig or some other type of moving vehicle. In most cases, the accident occurs because the bigger vehicle fails to see the bicyclist for whatever reason – inattention, negligence, impaired driving or dangerous roadway condition.
In this case, based on this news report, it is quite clear officials believe that the pickup driver’s carelessness and inattention caused this accident and the resulting serious injuries. There is no question here that the driver of the pickup should be held financially responsible for the accident and the injuries caused to this bicyclist. The injured victim could be eligible to receive compensation to cover medical costs — which I’m sure are astronomical given his serious head injuries — loss of wages and future medical expenses.
The victim would be well-advised to retain the services of an experienced California bicycle accident attorney, who will help determine the facts of the case and hold the negligent parties accountable for their actions. A skilled personal injury lawyer will also help the injured victim negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance companies involved. If you are involved in an auto accident it is very important that you get prompt medical attention. Not getting the medical attention and care you need could not only hurt you physically well-being, but it could also hamper your chances of getting fair compensation for your injuries and loss.
For more information about the mistakes you need to avoid after getting into an auto accident, please refer to my book “The Seven Fatal Mistakes That Can Wreck Your California Personal Injury Claim.” If you have been injured in an auto accident, you can get it free by visiting the Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys Web site, www.bestattorney.com.