Phoenix and the surrounding areas are experiencing a large number of bicyclists every year. Arizona’s mild climate for much of the year, sprawl-style layout of many of the cities, and the affordable nature of bicycles are leading to an increase in their popularity, making them visible in almost any city on any given day of the year.
With this increase in bicycle traffic has unfortunately come an increase in bicycle accidents. These accidents can occur between multiple cyclists or between a cyclist and a vehicle, whether that is a car, truck or van. When a vehicle and a bicyclist collide, injuries almost always result and they can be serious. In the worst accidents, a bicyclist can be killed in a crash.
Local police have reported a fatal bicycle collision between a cyclist in his 50s and a car in Phoenix last night. The cyclist, who has not yet been identified, was reportedly riding southbound on East McDowell Road near 28th Avenue shortly after 6:00 p.m. For reasons that are not yet known, a car in the area collided with the bicyclist, causing a collision that knocked the biker to the ground. Emergency crews responded to the scene and transported the biker to an area hospital but his injuries were too severe and he died a short time later.
The driver of the car was uninjured in the accident as were other passengers in the vehicle. According to authorities, none required medical treatment. At this time, police are still investigating the incident and trying to determine what caused the crash, including whether any person involved acted in a negligent or a reckless manner.
When the negligent actions of another cause an accident that leaves a victim injured or killed, the laws in Phoenix allow that victim to seek proper and just compensation for any injuries incurred. This can be brought through a personal injury claim, a civil claim in the Arizona system that enables a victim to seek a financial recovery to pay for injuries. Often, these claims seek reimbursement for expenses like medical bills, surgical costs, and lost income in addition to compensatory amounts for pain and suffering.
When a victim is killed in a crash, the right to bring a claim for damages may pass to the victim’s surviving family members who can seek relief in a court of law. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your family’s options and whether you may be entitled to a settlement following a crash.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., our team of experienced injury lawyers is standing by to help answer your questions regarding your accident. We can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally in Phoenix at (602) 819-5191. If you have been hurt in a crash, do not just wonder if you are entitled to relief. Call us today and let us help you understand your accident and your rights.
Prior Blog Entry:
DUIs Decreased in 2013 but Drunk Driving Still a Problem, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published January 7, 2014.
Resource:
Police: Phoenix man killed in bicycle vs car crash, by Brian Pryor, Fox 10 Phoenix, published January 9, 2014.