California Injury Blog
A man who was killed in a bicycle accident in Newport Beach the morning of July 15, 2010, has been identified as Michael William Nine. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal accident occurred near the intersection of Spyglass Hill Road and Harbor Ridge Drive when a gardening truck apparently pulled into Nine’s path. Nine was taken to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officials are looking into who or what caused this deadly collision.
My heart goes out to everybody who knew and loved Michael William Nine for their terrible loss. They will be in my prayers.
Car Accident Statistics
There were six fatalities and 439 injuries involving car accidents in Newport Beach, according to California Highway Patrol’s 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Orange County, car accidents claimed 152 lives and injured 13,414 people during the same year.
Fault and Liability
I trust officials are looking into who was at fault for this tragic crash. Why did the truck driver fail to see Nine as he pulled out on to Spyglass Hill? Did alcohol or drugs play a part in the collision? Was the driver of the truck distracted or driving recklessly at the time? Was there a dangerous condition on the roadway that may have hampered the visibility of the truck driver?
If the truck driver is determined to have been at fault, he and his employer could be held liable for the bicyclist’s wrongful death. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased car accident victims can file wrongful death claims seeking compensation for medical and funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship and other related damages. A reputed personal injury attorney in Newport Beach will carefully examine all facets of the incident and ensure that the family’s legal rights and best interests are protected.
If the collision was caused as a result of a dangerous or defective roadway, the city of Newport Beach or the governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held financially liable. Under California Government Code section 911.2, any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a public entity must be properly filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.
What are some of the most dangerous roadways for bicyclists in your city or neighborhood?
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.