San Luis Obispo, CA – The San Luis Obispo Police Department is searching for a driver involved in a hit-and-run on July 23, 2024, that led to the death of 87-year-old cyclist Saul Goldberg and hospitalization of another, according to The San Luis Obispo Tribune.
Goldberg and a 73-year-old man, both from Avila Beach, were riding electric bicycles southbound on South Higuera Street near the cemetery when they were struck by an unknown vehicle. The driver sideswiped Goldberg’s bike first and then collided with the second cyclist.
Both men were thrown to the ground. Goldberg was rushed to a hospital and, unfortunately, passed away on July 30, 2024. The other cyclist sustained moderate injuries.
Witnesses reported seeing a white four-door sedan fleeing the scene shortly after the collisions. The police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the driver of this vehicle, who is wanted for questioning.
South Higuera Street is a popular route among local cyclists, known for its blend of residential and commercial areas and scenic spots like the San Luis Obispo Cemetery. The area’s relatively flat terrain and beautiful surroundings make it a frequent choice for bikers.
The San Luis Obispo Police Department urges anyone with information about the incident or the white sedan to come forward.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Bicycle Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Motorists bear an added responsibility, known as the “Duty of Care,” towards cyclists due to their heightened vulnerability in car accidents, often leading to fatalities. Motorists are expected to stay with injured cyclists to aid in securing help from emergency services and to cooperate with authorities upon their arrival.
For those who have lost a loved one in a vehicular fatality, understanding that a Wrongful Death claim, guided by an experienced personal injury attorney, can provide compensation is crucial. This compensation can alleviate the financial strain of medical bills, burial expenses, and the loss of income for dependents of the deceased.
If the at-fault driver evades legal consequences, compensation might still be accessible through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Seeking advice from a personal injury attorney can help ascertain the most suitable options in such circumstances.
