Spring time weather has hit Phoenix and it looks like it is here to stay. The mild temperature combined with the generally sunny weather means that many people are hitting the roads on bicycles, either for transportation or for exercise. With an increased presence of cyclists often comes an increase in the number of bicycle versus automobile collisions with those on bikes usually suffering injuries.
When an accident involving a bicyclist occurs, the same rules and laws that govern car accidents come into play. Those involved in the collision are required to remain at the scene until they are cleared by police and tickets may be issued to anyone determined to have violated a law. Despite these requirements, drivers in Phoenix continue to ignore their duties with many drivers fleeing the scene of a bicycle accident involving a cyclist. In the event a fleeing driver is later apprehended, the legal charges faced are likely to be greater as additional counts may be added for a hit-and-run accident.
Victims of bicycle accident may be entitled to seek relief for the injuries they sustain in a crash. These claims can provide payments to cover things like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering that must be endured as a result of an accident. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer in the Phoenix area may help you understand whether you have a valid claim, and if so, whether you may be entitled to financial relief.
Authorities with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department responded to the scene of an accident involving three people walking bicycles on Saturday night. The incident, which happened near 115th Avenue and Happy Valley Road, allegedly occurred when a pickup truck traveling near the bicyclists entered the shoulder of the road and struck the cyclists as they walked. The driver of the pickup truck then fled the scene without providing any information to the police or the victims of the crash.
All three bicyclists were injured in the incident and needed medical treatment. One cyclist’s injuries were serious and required that individual be transported by air ambulance to a local hospital.
At this time, police are still looking for the driver involved in the crash. If anyone has information related to the incident or the driver’s identity, they are asked to contact the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department. The truck has been described as a newer model GMC or Chevrolet and it may have damage on the passenger’s side from the incident, including a possible broken headlight.
If you have been a victim of a bicycle accident in Phoenix, call the lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us provide you with a free, no obligation telephone consultation. We are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191. Call us now and let us help you get the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Driver Critical After Truck Accident in Surprise, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published April 2, 2014.
Resource:
MCSO: Truck driver hits cyclists and flees the scene, by Hans Pedersen, Fox 10 News, published April 6, 2014.