Man Killed in Bicycle Accident Involving DUI Collision
Man Killed in Bicycle Accident Involving DUI Collision
A 34-year-old man suffered fatal injuries in a bicycle accident after a suspected DUI collision. The fatal crash happened on the evening of June 11 in Rialto. According to a KTLA.com news report, the incident occurred in the 3300 block of North Riverside Avenue. Officials said 32-year-old John Godinez was driving a silver Toyota Solara at a high rate of speed, going northbound on Riverside Avenue near the intersection of Industrial Drive, when the car hit the bicyclist who was going west on Industrial Drive.
The bicyclist suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Godinez and his passenger suffered relatively minor injuries and were transported to an area hospital. Godinez was later arrested and booked on suspicion of DUI. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact 909-820-2550. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the bicyclist who was killed in this crash. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
DUI Collision Dangers
When it comes to a bicycle accident, cyclists are extremely vulnerable to negligent motorists such as those who are distracted, speeding, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. All it takes is a nick or a swipe for bicyclists to get thrown on to the street and suffer life-threatening injuries. In this particular case, officials say the driver may have been under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), it is illegal for a motorist to operate under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The same section also prohibits drivers from operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. In addition to vehicle code violations, drivers who cause a fatal crash while under the influence may face felony manslaughter or murder charges. A drunk driver is likely to cause a DUI collision because their ability to drive safely is impaired.
Justice for Victims and Their Families
In such cases, in addition to facing criminal charges, drivers may also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses they cause. Families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love, care and companionship. An experienced San Bernardino DUI victims’ lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options, and hold the at-fault parties accountable.
