A 56-year-old man from Lodi, California, was seriously injured in a car accident in Ada County, Iowa the morning of June 26, 2010 after he was struck by two vehicles. According to a KTVB news report, the cyclist was riding north on Highway 55, when a 34-year-old man driving a 2000 Mitsubishi Montero north on the highway, clipped the bicyclist with the passenger side mirror of his SUV. The rider fell off the bicycle and on to the highway where he was hit by a Ford pickup whose driver was unable to stop in time to avoid the collision. The bicyclist, who has not yet been identified, sustained serious leg injuries as well as internal injuries, but is expected to survive.
I sympathize with this bicyclist and his family. I certainly hope that this victim did not sustain any catastrophic injuries and wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
What Caused this Accident?
Based on this news report, it appears it may take investigators several days to fully examine the crash and determine exactly what happened and who is at fault for this bicycle accident. Citations or charges are pending. Based on preliminary details, investigators say visibility may have been a factor in this particular case. The glare of the bright sun may have hampered the vision of both drivers. Officials are also issuing a warning to both motorists and bicyclists saying that they should take additional precautions while driving as this is a busy time of year for the nation's roadways.
Fault and Liability
If officials determine that the first driver or both drivers were at fault, then they can be held liable for the accident and injuries caused to the bicyclist. I trust officials are also looking into whether either one of the drivers was inebriated, distracted, reckless or otherwise negligent. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, injured victims can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, physical therapy, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
Victims and their families would be well-advised to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.
What safety precautions can motorists and bicyclists take to prevent accidents during this busy time of year?
The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm 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.
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