California Injury Blog
Joshua Gene Cervantes, 40, was killed in an electric bicycle accident near a major intersection in San Clemente on the morning of June 7.
According to a report in The Orange County Register, the fatal hit-and-run bicycle accident occurred when Cervantes, who was riding along northbound Avenida La Pata near Avenida Pico, was struck by a vehicle.
Fatal Hit and Run Crash
Orange County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the scene and found Cervantes with head and neck trauma. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators found pieces of the vehicle at the scene and later found the vehicle, unoccupied, a short distance from the crash scene. The driver of the vehicle had left the scene and is still being sought. Officials have not released any other information about this collision. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Joshua Gene Cervantes for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Leaving the Scene of a Crash
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the vehicle that struck the e-bike abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene. This is a felony crime under California law. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) requires motorists who are involved in fatal accidents or incidents causing injury to stop immediately at the scene of the crash and remain there until authorities arrive. They are also required to exchange pertinent information with other parties involved in the collision and, most importantly, render aid to injured victims.
Protecting Victims’ and Families’ Rights
In such cases, it is often the victims of the hit-and-run and their families who face significant emotional and financial burdens stemming from mounting medical expenses, funeral costs, and the fact that the driver has yet to be apprehended. Injured victims or their families would be well advised to contact an experienced Orange County hit-and-run lawyer who will remain on top of the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.
A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can also help families secure compensation for medical expenses and other treatment costs even if the at-fault driver hasn’t been apprehended or identified.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2022/06/07/man-riding-electric-bicycle-in-san-clemente-dies-after-being-struck-by-vehicle/