Jorge Alvarado, the 27-year-old pro biker killed in a San Bernardino car accident on April 8, 2010, was struck by a teenage driver involved in a street-race, The San Bernardino Sun reports. San Bernardino County Sheriff's officials say Patrick Roraff, 18, and a passenger were traveling north on Greenspot Road, in Highland, in a 2002 Honda Accord. He was apparently speeding behind a blue Honda and another silver Honda. All of the drivers and passengers in the Hondas are seniors at a local high school.
Roraff lost control of his car and struck Alvarado when he tried to change lanes and move past the vehicle in front of him. At the time, Roraff is believed to have been traveling at more than 70 mph. Alvarado died at the scene. Police have not made any arrests and say that the investigation could take several weeks to complete. But they also say they are confident that the district attorney will file criminal charges in this fatal bicycle accident case.
Tragic and Unnecessary
I offer my condolences to Jorge Alvarado's family. The cycling community has also lost a young and upcoming pro, apparently because of a few young people's recklessness. I trust investigators will prosecute Roraff and others involved in this fatal street racing incident to the fullest extent of the law.
The Law Relating to Street Racing
In California, racing on a public street or a highway is illegal. California Vehicle Code section 23109 (a) states: "A person shall not engage in a motor vehicle speed contest on a highway. As used in this section, a motor vehicle speed contest includes a motor vehicle race against another vehicle, a clock, or other timing device. For purposes of this section, an event in which the time to cover a prescribed route of more than 20 miles is measured, but where the vehicle does not exceed the speed limits, is not a speed contest."
Claim for Compensation
In such cases, families of deceased victims would be well-advised to contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure their legal rights are protected. If Roraff and the others are found guilty in this case, they can, not only be criminally prosecuted but, also held civilly liable for their actions. Family members of deceased victims, in cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, can file what is known as a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover medical or funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.
What can local governments and law enforcement agencies do to curb street racing on city streets?
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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