Man Seriously Injured in Orange County Bicycle Accident

A man suffered major injuries in a Santa Ana bicycle accident, which was caused by two cars that were apparently racing. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the incident occurred the night of October 27, 2016 at 17th and Fairview streets. Witnesses told police that a white truck and black car had been racing northbound on Fairview Street from the Civic Center area. The white truck hit a bicyclist who was riding near the east curb line of Fairview north of the riverbed.

The man was knocked off the bike and sustained serious injuries. He was transported to an area hospital in critical condition. The drivers left the scene, but Christopher Rosalino Carrasco of Garden Grove turned himself into the police later that night. He was the driver of the white truck and told police he was involved in the crash. Carrasco was booked on suspicion of hit-and-run with injuries. The investigation is ongoing.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the injured victim of this collision. We wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.

Bicycle Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol’s 2013 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but 200 injuries reported as a result of bicycle accidents in the city of Santa Ana. In Orange County as a whole, 9 people died and 1,309 were injured due to bicycle accidents during the same year.

Violation of Laws

Based on this news report, it appears that the accident occurred when the white truck was racing with another vehicle. It is illegal under California law to race on a public roadway. California Vehicle Code section 23109 (a) states: “A person shall not engage in a motor vehicle speed contest on a highway. As used in this section, a motor vehicle speed contest includes a motor vehicle race against another vehicle, a clock, or other timing device.”

The article also states that the driver initially left the scene of the crash, which is also a violation of California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a). Motorists are required to stop immediately after a crash, remain at the scene and exchange pertinent information such as driver’s license, insurance, license plate information, etc. Most importantly, they are required to assist the injured.

Compensation for Victims

In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, injured victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, permanent injuries and pain and suffering. Injured victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced Orange County bicycle accident lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.