[10-07-2023] Orange County, CA – Bicyclist Killed After Being Stuck by Vehicle in Laguna Beach

A bicyclist was killed after being struck by a vehicle in Laguna Beach on Saturday evening, October 07, 2023.

According to the Laguna Beach Police Department, the crash happened at 6:53 p.m. along Oak Street and Glenneyre Street.

Reports say a man, who was riding his bicycle with a small dog in the front basket, was hit by a vehicle. The police reported that he later died as a result of the accident.

The victim sustained critical injuries and was brought to the trauma center, where he was pronounced dead. The small terrier was taken to a local animal hospital for minor injuries and is  expected to recover.

Based on the investigation, the vehicle’s driver stayed at the scene cooperating, and authorities have ruled out drugs and alcohol as not being factors in the accident.

The identity of the victim is pending until their next of kin has been notified.

Award-Winning Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Orange County

If you suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, you may be able to make a claim for compensation. Having legal representation can significantly simplify the process of recovering damages for injuries caused by 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 Orange County 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 $750 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 cycling is essential, but in California, cars outnumber two-wheelers, so the odds are stacked against you. 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. 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.
• Consult with an experienced California bicycle accident lawyer on the next appropriate steps to take.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Fatal 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.

Road dangers present a constant risk to riders. Regardless of the danger, vehicles ride too closely to bikers 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.