Call today to schedule a free initial consultation

Phone :415.835.6777

Palo Alto man loses his life in bike crash when struck by car

Bicyclists are always more vulnerable than motorists, even if they are wearing helmets. For this reason, it is not surprising that bicycle accident victims often suffer severe injuries, and in many cases a bike crash can result in death. A recent bicycle accident in Palo Alto claimed the life of a man believed to be about 30 years old.

California Highway Patrol officers were called to the scene of an accident shortly before 7 a.m. on a recent Tuesday morning. Officials reported that the crash occurred at an intersection on a route that is popular with bicyclists. The accident investigation was ongoing, and the only available details were that the bicyclist was struck by a car in the intersection.

A CHP officer reminded motorists that, just like vehicles, bicyclists have a right to be on the road. He urged all road users to respect each other and the vehicle code that adheres to vehicle operators and bicyclists alike. After undergoing a Breathalyzer test, the driver was free to go, as officers determined that he was not impaired.

The loved ones of the man who lost his life in this bike crash may be entitled to pursue recovery of financial losses sustained. However, in order to successfully litigate a wrongful death claim in a California civil court, negligence must be established on the part of the other party. Once this is done, the court may find financial liability and enter a monetary judgment in restitution for end-of-life expenses and other documented financial and emotional losses.

Source: ABC 7 News, “Bicyclist fatally struck by car on popular bike route near Page Mill Road in Palo Alto“, Matt Keller, Nov. 3, 2015