California roadways are a mixing bowl of pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and mass transit passengers. It stands to reason that with so much traffic across the state, accidents are collisions are virtually inevitable. What we hate to see is fatalities upon California roadways as many automobile accidents and collisions are easily avoidable. Unfortunately, California Highway Patrol reported a fatality over the weekend involving a collision between a bicyclist and an SUV.
The crash occurred Saturday afternoon in the Camarillo community of Ventura County. The male cyclist was immediately taken to Ventura County Medical Center where he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The crash occurred on Pleasant Valley Road in Camarillo.
Details of the accident have emerged over the weekend and the victim, a 76-year old man, was intending to turn right off of Pleasant Valley Road when he suddenly turned left into the path of an oncoming SUV, driven by a 63-year old woman. The driver was traveling 55 miles per hour when she collided with the cyclist, who was ejected from his bike immediately. The medical examiner is confidant drugs or alcohol were not a factor in the crash.
These types of tragedies are all too common as Californians often struggle to safely share the roadway with other motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Collisions involving bicycles continue to plague all areas of California. For these reasons, it is imperative for anyone choosing to ride a bicycle on the roadway to exercise prudent safety precautions at all times. This means always wearing a helmet and studying the rules of the road for bicyclists. Many communities and public interest groups also offer bicycle safety courses geared for teens and adults alike.
Just last week, a 25-year old man was struck and killed near the UCSC campus entrance. Police still have few details on the death but CHP confirmed that the victim had “severe road rash” and was found Wednesday morning on Empire Grade Road in Santa Cruz, California. His bicycle was found in the bushes and parts of his bike were found as far away as across the street. Using evidence left at the scene, law enforcement was able to deduce that the perpetrator was driving a maroon or red Nissan. It would have front end damage as a result of the collision. Police and family members urge anyone with information to contact the Santa Cruz police immediately.
Bicycle collisions and injuries are a serious problem across California. If you have recently been injured while riding a bike, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would love to review your case. You can reach our offices at (800)-300-0001.
