[10-07-2023] San Bernardino County, CA – Bicyclist Killed Following Hit-and-Run Collision in Rialto

A bicyclist was killed after a hit-and-run collision in Rialto on Saturday evening, October 7, 2023.

According to the Rialto Police Department, the incident occurred in the area of 2400 South Riverside Avenue at around 7:05 p.m.

Authorities stated that a 46-year-old San Bernardino resident named Santos L. rear-ended the bicyclist in the southbound lanes of the avenue and fled the scene without rendering aid to the victim.

The bicyclist eventually succumbed to injuries minutes later. The victim’s identity is being withheld until the next of kin is notified.

The suspect’s vehicle was located in Bloomington and identified as a white 2008 Hyundai Electra. The Hyundai contained evidence that tied the suspect to the incident, who is currently at large.

An investigation is underway to locate the hit-and-run driver. We encourage anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the authorities.

Dedicated San Bernardino County Hit-and-Run Accident Attorneys Specializing in Bicycle Accidents

After a hit-and-run accident, the legal system should be utilized to obtain compensation and justice. You can file a lawsuit or submit an insurance claim.

A person may suffer serious injuries and property damage due to negligence or indifference on the part of another. If this is the case, you may benefit from the assistance of a personal injury lawyer.

You can count on the advice of our trusted San Bernardino County hit-and-run accident attorneys specializing in bicycle accidents at Arash Law, headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., who can help you with your claim or effectively represent you in court proceedings.

Our personal injury law firm has recovered over $750 Million for clients and is widely acknowledged for its success and reputation as one of California’s most recognized personal injury law firms.

If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What to Do After A Hit-and-Run Accident in Rialto

While the at-fault driver may have fled the scene, it does not mean they cannot be found. You can help the authorities find and detain the hit-and-run driver by following the steps below. You can also use this information to improve your case if you file a lawsuit for damages. The following guidelines can help you if you are the victim of a hit-and-run:

1. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Move to a safe location away from traffic.
2. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Be sure to inform the dispatcher that it’s a hit-and-run.
3. Write down as many details as possible about the fleeing vehicle, including its make, model, color, license plate number (even a partial plate can be helpful), and any distinctive features.
4. Obtain the contact information of the witnesses. They may have seen the accident and be willing to provide statements to the police.
5. Take photos of the scene of the accident, your vehicle, and any visible injuries. These can serve as evidence later.
6. Report the hit-and-run to the local police and provide them with all your information about the other vehicle.
7. Contact your insurance company to report the accident. They can guide you on the next steps for filing a claim.
8. Get medical help immediately, even if you think you don’t need it. Complications may arise later on.
9. Preserve any evidence of the accident, such as damaged clothing or personal belongings. This could be important for your claim.
10. Consult a hit-and-run attorney in California. They can help you navigate the legal process and maximize your chances of compensation.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics

Leaving the scene of an accident in the United States without assisting the victims or reporting the incident to the authorities is illegal and unethical.

According to a report, from 2010 to 2019, 3,056 people in California lost their lives due to 2,948 recorded deadly hit-and-run collisions. California has one of the highest fatality rates out of all states.

About 737,100 accidents involving hit-and-run drivers were reported in 2015, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This equates to roughly one hit-and-run accident occurring every 43 seconds in the United States. A record number of 2,049 people were killed in hit-and-run accidents in 2016.