Bicyclist Killed by Drunk Driver in Sacramento Hit and Run
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento personal injury lawyer. A July 21 collision with a hit-and-run vehicle resulted in the death of a bicyclist in North Sacramento. The driver of the car, instead of staying at the scene as is required by law, fled instead and was apprehended later by local police. He has been booked into jail on a charge of suspicion of driving while intoxicated and felony hit-and-run. I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere sympathy to the family and friends of the deceased man in their time of loss and sorrow.
What Happened
The accident happened shortly before 2:00 in the morning along Highway 160 near Northgate Boulevard. Upon arrival of officers with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Sacramento Fire Department, the bicyclist was discovered. By using investigative techniques at the accident scene and going through the evidence that was found at the site of the collision, CHP officers identified the motorist who fled as Kamau Ndirangu, age 25, and a resident of Antelope. It was reported that the vehicle involved in the collision and driven by Ndirangu was a Honda Accord. No information has been released yet on the identity of the man who was killed in the crash.
Injuries Caused by Bicycle Collisions With Motor Vehicles
Armed with little protection in an accident with a motor vehicle, the injuries to a bicycle rider can be devastating or result in death. Those who lose a loved one in a bicycle accident may be able to recover damages through a wrongful death lawsuit. Some of the injuries that can be suffered in a collision with a motor vehicle include:
- Abdominal trauma can present right away, or symptoms may be delayed that include internal bleeding or damage to an organ.
- Head injuries can be lessened or prevented through the use of an approved bicycle helmet. From concussion to traumatic brain injury, any type of head injury may be severe.
- Chest injuries happen from striking the vehicle or landing on the ground and can cause deep bruising or broken ribs
- Bone fractures are common occurrences in bicycle accidents and may range from simple breaks to compound fractures requiring surgery.
- Back and spine injuries may range from muscle and ligament strain to damaged discs or fractured vertebrae.
- Facial trauma can damage the eyes, teeth or result in fractures.
Staying Safe While Out Bicycling
It is everyone’s responsibility to use caution when out riding a bike or driving a car. Some of the following suggestions might help.
- In California, drivers have to maintain a distance of three feet from bicyclists under the “Three Feet for Safety Rule.” However, not all motorists can be relied upon to obey that rule, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for cars encroaching into a bicycle rider’s space.
- Keep an eye out for vehicles coming out of side streets or backing from driveways.
- Keep your bike in good condition, and check tires and brakes on a regular basis. It is also important to ride a bike that is the right size.
- Bicycle riders should always obey traffic laws.
- Make sure your bicycle meets safety standards that are required in California.
- Wear clothing that motorists will spot easily such as bright colors, or place reflective strips on clothing.
- Do not become distracted by listening to music or chatting on a cell phone.
Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento personal injury lawyer. If you have been injured or lost a loved one because of a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, I can offer you compassionate, free and friendly advice. Please phone me at (916) 921-6400 in the Sacramento area. I also have a toll-free line at (800) 404-5400.
As a Million Dollar Forum member, I join trial attorneys around the nation who have won in excess of $1 million for a client through a verdict or settlement.
Learn more about my law firm by checking out our client reviews and looking over some of our previous cases and their results at:
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_93628166_l-2015
:cd cv