[06-10-2025] Santa Cruz County, CA – 84-Year-Old Man Injured After Hit-And-Run Crash in Watsonville

An 84-year-old Bay Village resident was injured after being struck by an electric bike rider in Watsonville on Tuesday morning, June 10, 2025.

According to Watsonville Police, the incident occurred around 10:45 a.m. on a wide pedestrian path along the Salsipuedes Creek levee.

The man was walking when a male suspect on a black e-bike collided with him and then fled eastbound, leaving the victim on the ground. Witnesses rendered immediate aid and helped guide responding personnel from Watsonville Fire, paramedics, and police to the scene.

Authorities described the suspect as a white male in his 60s wearing a red and white checkered shirt, riding a black electric bike. Police have not yet located the individual.

It remains unclear whether the e-bike was legally permitted on the trail, as such regulations depend on the bike’s motor classification.

The incident is under investigation.

Talk To Our Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers In Watsonville, CA

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling confused and helpless, especially if the person responsible leaves the scene. Whether it’s a car, bike, or another vehicle involved, such accidents often lead to serious injuries and challenges.

Our team of hit-and-run accident lawyers in Watsonville is here to help guide you through the process. We can assist in gathering important details, such as police reports, witness statements, and any available evidence, to support your case. We also work closely with medical professionals to ensure your injuries are properly documented and understood.

Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies or if your case goes to court, we’re here to provide you with clear advice and help you navigate the situation. Our goal is to support you during this difficult time and help you understand your options.

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, contact us today at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free consultation.

Steps To Take After A Hit-and-Run Accident

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. However, knowing the right steps to take can help protect your health, legal rights, and any potential claims. Here’s a simple guide on what to do after the accident:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
   Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries might not be visible at first or could worsen over time. Getting checked by a medical professional ensures that your injuries are documented, which is important for both your health and any future claims.
2. Report the Accident to Authorities
   Call the police as soon as possible to report the incident. An official report is critical for any legal or insurance purposes. When speaking with authorities, provide them with all the details you can recall, including the time, location, and any descriptions of the vehicle or driver involved.
3. Document the Scene and Your Injuries
   If you are able, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your vehicle or nearby property. If you cannot do this yourself, ask someone nearby for help. Documenting these details can be vital for your case.
4. Gather Witness Information
   If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact details. Their statements can provide helpful information and support your case, especially when identifying the responsible party.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
   Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. This helps ensure that your claim is processed correctly. Your lawyer can also help you navigate this process, ensuring your interests are protected.
6. Contact A Lawyer
   It’s important to reach out to a lawyer who can help guide you through the process. A lawyer can assist with gathering evidence, help negotiate with insurance companies, and offer support if your case moves forward.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics

Between 2012 and 2021, fatal hit-and-run accidents saw a significant increase. In 2021, 2,783 deadly hit-and-run crashes were reported, nearly double the 1,469 cases in 2012. This represents an 89.4% rise in hit-and-run fatalities, which is much higher than the overall 27.4% increase in all fatal crashes over the same period.

The percentage of fatal crashes involving hit-and-run also grew substantially. In 2012, 4.7% of fatal crashes were hit-and-runs, but by 2021, that number had risen to 7.0%, marking a 48.7% increase.

California had the highest share of deadly hit-and-runs, accounting for 10.1% of fatal crashes. In comparison, states like Wyoming, Maine, and New Hampshire had much lower rates, with hit-and-runs making up only 1-1.4% of fatal accidents.

Fatal hit-and-runs were also more likely to happen at night, with 77.3% of them occurring after dark. Nighttime hit-and-run accidents were much more common, making up 9.5% of fatal nighttime crashes, compared to just 2.7% during the day.

Lastly, more than 60% of fatal hit-and-run accidents involved pedestrians. Over the 10-year period, pedestrian deaths from hit-and-run accidents increased by 53.7%, highlighting the increasing danger pedestrians face in such accidents.