Harley McDaniel, 17, sustained injuries in a car accident after her bicycle was hit by a vehicle the morning of August 25, 2010. According to a report in The Tehachapi News, Harley was riding her bike near the intersection of Highline Road and Water Canyon Road in Tehachapi, when she was struck by a car driven by Philip Waterstradt. Harley sustained injuries, but they are not believed to be life-threatening. Police say dark clothing worn by the teenager may have contributed to this collision. Officials do not believe alcohol or drugs were involved. An investigation is ongoing.
My thoughts and prayers are with Harley McDaniel as she recovers from her injuries. It is indeed fortunate that Harley was not seriously injured in this crash. I wish her the very best for a complete and speedy recovery.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), no one was killed but two people were injured in Tehachapi bicycle accidents. In Kern County as a whole, three people died and 130 were injured as a result of bicycle accidents during the same year.
What Caused This Bicycle Accident?
Based on this news report, it is not clear what caused this car versus bicycle accident. There are still several questions here. Was Harley McDaniel riding her bike where she was supposed to? Was this an issue of visibility? The article states Harley was riding a gray-colored bike and was wearing dark clothing, which may have made it difficult for the driver to spot her on the roadway. There is also the question of whether a dangerous condition on the roadway may have caused or contributed to the accident. I trust officials are examining these and other factors in order to determine exactly what occurred here.
Liability Issues
If it is determined that the motorist is at fault for this injury bicycle accident, then, he could be held liable for the victim's personal injuries. In such cases, victims can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Victims or their families would be well-advised to contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all facets of the crash and ensure that the negligent parties are held accountable.
A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether a hazardous roadway may have caused or contributed to this crash. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining this roadway could also be held liable. Under California Government Code section 911.2, any personal injury claim against a public entity must be 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 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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