A 59-year-old man was riding his bicycle along Pinal Avenue in Casa Grande when he became the victim of a hit-and-run accident. He was struck by a large SUV, according to local police. The SUV fled the scene leaving the injured bicyclist behind.Police found what they believe to be pieces from both the bicycle and a Ford Expedition believed to have been involved scattered at the scene. Early evidence indicates the Expedition may have been manufactured between 2003 and 2006. The bicyclist had to be airlifted to Maricopa Hospital in Phoenix where it was reported he sustained internal injuries as well as a head injury. Fortunately it appeared that the bicyclist’s injuries were not life threatening.
Early reports indicate that the bicyclist and the automobile were traveling in the same direction just north of the airport when the automobile struck the rider from behind.
A suspect was arrested by Casa Grande police but no charges have yet been filed.
Police are actively investigating the collision and are looking for any tips from local residents. If you have any information regarding this crash, please contact Officer Chuck Schmidlin at (520) 412-8700.
Bicycle accidents are unfortunately very common in the state of Arizona. With beautiful weather all year round, there is a higher number of people in our state that use bicycles regularly. However, that means that there are going to be more bike crashes.
Drivers have to be diligent in their effort to keep a lookout for bike riders on the roadways. Even a low-speed collision with a bicyclist can cause catastrophic and long-term injuries.
In my experience as a bicycle lawyer, most of these accidents occur when motorist fails to observe a bike rider on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured while riding, call the Arizona bicycle lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free consultation. You can reach us today at (855) PHX-LAWYER or through the contact page on our website.
Prior Blogs:
Downtown Phoenix Considering Bike-Share Program, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, March 29, 2013.
Will Arizona and other states prematurely outlaw the use of Google Glass while driving?, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, March 25, 2013.
Resources:
Bicycle injured by hit-and-run driver on Pinal, by Scott McNutt, Casa Grande Dispatch, April 4, 2013.
County attorney still reviewing hit and run that injured bicyclist, Casa Grande Dispatch, April 12, 2013.