A cyclist was heavily injured after crashing into a truck in Bakersfield on Thursday evening, April 20, 2023.
According to the California Highway Patrol Traffic Incident Information Page, the crash happened around 8:56 p.m. on Airport Drive near Norris Road.
Highway Patrol Officer Eric Scott reported that a white truck and a group of cyclists were traveling in the same lane of Airport Drive’s southbound traffic.
A bicyclist was struck when the driver of the white truck, which was moving at a speed of about 45 mph, tried to merge back over after changing lanes to pass the cyclists.
The cyclists, according to Scott, were not wearing safety equipment. The bicyclist, who was taken to a nearby hospital, sustained major injuries.
According to CHP, the truck’s driver remained at the scene and was not found to be under the influence.
The investigation into the crash continues.
Award-Winning Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Bakersfield, CA
It is possible to file a claim for damages if you were hurt in a bicycle accident. Legal representation can make seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a bicycle accident much smoother.
A consultation with a lawyer who can give sound advice would be helpful in this challenging situation. Your insurance company will be notified, and your legal documents will be updated.
Our Bakersfield bicycle accident lawyers at Arash Law, headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., are aggressive advocates of defending people injured in bicycle accidents. Our firm has recovered over $500 million for clients all over California.
To speak with one of our lawyers, call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have a Case?” form.
What To Do After a Bicycle Accident
Being safe when riding a bicycle is paramount, but the odds are against you – cars outnumber two-wheelers in California. At some point, you or a fellow rider may be in an accident involving a motorist.
Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can affect how well you protect your rights or those of a companion who may be severely injured. Here’s a checklist to help you maintain control and preserve critical information:
- Dial 911: call the police or an ambulance immediately. If you are unable to do so, ask someone to help.
- Always wait for the police to arrive and file an official report. A police report provides documentation detailing the incident, including the identity of witnesses.
- Leave your bike in the same state after the crash, if possible. It is best if the police see the accident scene undisturbed.
- Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
- Immediately seek medical attention at the scene, emergency room, hospital, or doctor’s office. When in doubt, go to the ER! Give all complaints to the doctor. Medical records prove that you were injured and document the extent of your injuries.
- Take photos of injuries and your bicycle.
- Never negotiate with the vehicle’s driver, regardless of who may be at fault. Get the driver’s name and insurance information, along with the names of any passengers.
- Make a statement to insurance once you talk to a lawyer.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
Despite fewer bicycle accidents in 2018, there were still close to 800 cyclist fatalities nationwide, a 12% increase from 2001.
The National Center for Health Statistics reports that, in contrast to 377 deaths from other causes, 712 bikers died due to car accidents.
According to statistics, California has the most fatal bicycle accidents. According to a National Bicycle Safety Foundation study, 11,116 people were injured, and 145 died while bicycling in California in 2017.
Riders are constantly at risk from road hazards. Vehicles ride too closely to bikers and disregard their rights, regardless of the danger. As a result, accidents and even fatalities are possible.
Because they consistently don’t yield the right of way, drivers frequently slam through stop signs and red lights. Drinking or careless driving could result in a fatal bicycle collision.