Sacramento, CA – According to the Sacramento Bee, on December 27, 2023, in the North Highlands area of Sacramento 62-year-old bicyclist Wally Aginaga was killed by a hit-and-run driver in a crash that the California Highway Patrol continues to investigate.
Around 9:50 PM, the CHP was called to the crash site at Roseville Road and Winona Way to find Aginaga lying beside his Schwinn bicycle, which had a small carriage attached.
After Sacramento firefighters applied life-saving efforts, Aginaga received transportation to San Juan Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The CHP requests that any person with additional information on that fatal collision contact them to aid in their investigation.
Duty of Care toward Cyclists and Pedestrians
Cyclists and pedestrians 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 to avoid any chance of a collision. This legal responsibility stems from the fact that cyclists and pedestrians travel with less protection alongside heavier and faster cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Drivers must also stop once a collision has occurred to get medical attention for a cyclist or pedestrian 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 cyclist down in the street.