[07-28-2023] Sonoma County, CA – 51-Year-Old Bicyclist Killed After Being Struck by Vehicle in Rohnert Park

A 51-year-old bicyclist was killed after being struck by a pickup truck in Rohnert Park on Friday afternoon, July 28, 2023.

According to the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety, the fatal crash occurred around 12:40 p.m. in the 5700 block of Commerce Boulevard.

The RPDPS determined that a Ram 1500 pickup truck was turning into the northbound lane from the parking lot when it collided with the bicyclist heading south.

The bicyclist from Santa Rosa, whose identity was not released, suffered life-threatening injuries and later died at a hospital.

The truck driver complied with the authorities and remained at the site. The accident was not believed to have been caused by drugs or alcohol.

Anyone who has information about the accident is requested to contact the authorities.

Award-Winning Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Rohnert Park, CA

You might be eligible to file a claim for compensation if you were hurt or a family injured was killed in a bicycle accident. Having legal representation can greatly ease the process of claiming compensation for injuries sustained in a bicycle accident.

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 award-winning Rohnert Park 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 while cycling is important, but the odds are against you because cars outnumber two-wheelers in California. You or a fellow rider might one day be involved in a collision with a car. 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.
• 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. It is best if the police see the accident scene undisturbed.
• Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
• Seek medical attention at the scene, emergency room, hospital, or doctor’s office. When in doubt, go to the ER and consult with a doctor. Gather medical records proving that you were injured and document the extent of your injuries.
• Take photos of injuries and your bicycle.
• Do not 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 the insurance once you talk to a lawyer.
• Consult with an experienced California bicycle accident lawyer on the next appropriate steps to take.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

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.

Cyclists are constantly at risk from traffic hazards. Despite the risks, drivers often ignore bikers’ space and violate their rights. As a result, accidents and even fatalities are possible.

Drivers frequently slam through stop signs and red lights because they consistently don’t yield the right of way. Drinking or careless driving could result in a fatal bicycle collision.