Bicyclist Critically Injured in Anaheim Hit-and-Run Crash
A male bicyclist suffered major head injuries after, officials say, he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene in a hit and run. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the major injury collision occurred the night of June 12, 2013 in the 900 block of North Harbor Boulevard in Anaheim. The man was transported to a local trauma center in critical condition. Officials say when they arrived the man was found with head injuries and his bicycle lay next to him. Authorities do not have vehicle or driver information. The investigation is ongoing.
 Crash Statistics
There were three fatalities and 1,187 injuries reported as a result of bicycle collisions in Orange County, according to California Highway Patrol’s 2010 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Also, 147 deaths and 19,009 injuries were reported as a result of hit-and-run car accidents statewide.
 Violation of the Law
Based on this news report, it appears that the bicyclist was struck by a vehicle, which then left the scene of the crash without stopping to render aid to the severely injured victim. Leaving the scene of an injury crash is not only unethical and inhumane, but it is also illegal. Drivers are required to stop immediately and remain at the scene of the crash regardless of who was at fault. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: “The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.”
 Holding Hit-and-Run Drivers Accountable
The Register report states that there is no information about this hit-and-run driver. If you have any information about this incident, please visit our dedicated hit-and-run website at www.hitandrunreward.com to offer an anonymous tip and to become eligible to receive a $1,000 reward.
In such cases, families of deceased victims would be well advised to contact an experienced Anaheim personal injury lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. A knowledgeable car accident attorney will also be able to advise victims’ families about how their own auto insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run crash or to an incident where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.