(San Diego, CA) A 57-year-old bicyclist suffered serious injuries in an Oliver Avenue collision on Sunday night in Pacific Beach after being struck and run over by a vehicle.
On Sunday, September 21, at about 9:15 p.m., the Oliver Avenue collision occurred at the intersection of Ingraham Street. According to the San Diego Police Department, a 31-year-old man drove a northbound Mazda CX-5 through a stop sign, broadsiding an eastbound bicyclist.
The impact knocked the rider to the ground directly in front of the SUV. Police said the driver stepped out without putting the Mazda in park, causing the vehicle to roll forward and run over the injured bicyclist. The SUV then continued into a curb and a metal gate.
Paramedics responded quickly and transported the victim to a hospital with multiple fractured ribs. Officers confirmed that the driver was not under the influence. SDPD’s Traffic Division continues to investigate the Oliver Avenue collision.
Legal Perspective on the Oliver Avenue Collision
Collisions involving bicycles often raise serious questions about driver responsibility. Under California law, motorists must exercise caution when approaching intersections and sharing the road with cyclists.
One critical statute here is California Vehicle Code 22450, which requires drivers to stop at stop signs before entering an intersection. Running the stop sign placed the Mazda directly in the path of the bicyclist, making this law central to determining fault. If speed influenced the driver’s inability to stop safely, California Vehicle Code 22350, the Basic Speed Law, may also apply. This law requires drivers to adjust speed to roadway conditions, visibility, and traffic. Since the bicyclist sustained severe injuries, he may pursue a personal injury claim.
California law allows victims to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering. The unusual detail of the rolling SUV running over the victim may also demonstrate negligence in failing to properly secure the vehicle.
What the Injured Cyclist Can Do
For the bicyclist and his loved ones, the coming weeks will be challenging. Seeking guidance from a personal injury attorney can help clarify his legal rights. An attorney can secure the police report, gather witness statements, and evaluate traffic camera footage to confirm liability.
A personal injury claim could provide crucial financial support, covering hospital bills, therapy, and time away from work. Beyond compensation, it ensures accountability for the driver’s actions and helps highlight safety concerns at the site of the Oliver Avenue collision.
We at Accident News Now offer our encouragement and support. We know this is a confusing time as you deal with the uncertainties resulting from this terrible incident. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
