A cyclist was struck by two vehicles and killed on Saturday night in southern San Luis Obispo. The San Luis Obispo Tribune reported the hit-and-run tragedy occurred at the intersection of South Higuera Street and Prado Road on February 11, 2023.
San Luis Obispo police were sent to the scene around 9 p.m. They found a 23-year-old rider suffering from injuries. When emergency crews arrived, they declared the victim deceased.
Investigators determined that the victim had been struck by two vehicles. The first driver did not stay on the scene and was later located at a nearby residence. The driver, a 29-year-old San Luis Obispo man, was arrested for felony hit-and-run.
The second driver involved remained on the scene and cooperated with investigators. San Luis Obispo Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deadly crash. They ask that anyone who witnessed the accident call the San Luis Obispo Police Department.
Hit-And-Run Bicycle Accident Hazards in San Luis Obispo
Bicyclists in San Luis Obispo are owed a “duty of care” from drivers no matter where they meet. Motorists are legally obligated to monitor the roads ahead, and all mirrors and blind spots, for any rider who may be nearby. Drivers must hit the brakes in order to avoid any chance of a collision. This legal responsibility stems from the fact that cyclists travel with little to no protection when alongside heavier and faster cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Drivers must also stop once a collision has occurred in order to get a bicyclist medical attention as fast as possible. Remaining on the scene, turning on hazard lights, and blocking off traffic also reduce the chances of the victim being struck by approaching motorists who may not be able to see an injured bicyclist down in the street.
California transportation officials track bicycle accidents each year in San Luis Obispo County. They found that at least 89 bicycle accidents involving injury occurred on San Luis Obispo County roads in 2021. At least 6 of those accidents and at least one fatal incident involved a hit-and-run driver.
Drivers must somehow get the message to show more caution when traveling around bicyclists. They must also face stiffer consequences when they strike someone and then flee the scene without showing even basic care towards a victim.
A note about San Luis Obispo bicycle accidents…
Families who’ve lost a precious loved one after a tragic San Luis Obispo bicycle accident victims are encouraged to seek support from an at-fault driver’s car insurance provider.
A wrongful death claim is used to secure help with funeral costs and medical bills. The weekly income the victim can no longer provide close relatives in the future should also be reimbursed. To find out more about your options please visit our informational page here.
