We all know that police officers in our community are dedicated to serving and protecting us and our families, but we must also remember that they are human and can make mistakes.
A wrongful death happened in University City after a San Diego Police Department patrol car struck and killed in bicyclist in the early morning hours of Monday, November 9th, 2009. The cyclist, 63-years-old Walter Freeman, died at the site of the crash on Genesee and Governor Drive.
Our bicycle accident lawyers know how important it is for bikers on the road to be aware of their surroundings and traffic at all times, but we also know that it takes the auto drivers who share the streets with bikers to look out for them, as well as other motorists on the road.
Investigators Reinact The Collision Between A Biker And A SDPD Patrol Car In University City (Via Sign On San Diego)
The fatal bicycle accident in University City occurred because the police officer driving the patrol car was headed to another auto accident and did not see Freeman cross the southbound lane and made an abrupt left turn in the intersection where the officer was headed. The patrol car was going under the 45 miles per hour speed limit when it hit the bike, sending the rider into the windshield and cracking the sirens on the roof.
There does not appear to be any indication of drunk driving or drug use on the part of the police officer.
Freeman, who was wearing a helmet and other safety clothing at the time of the bicycle accident, died from his personal injuries he sustained in the crash. The SDPD officer, who was uninjured in the accident, is on standard paid leave from the department while the investigation is underway. His name has not been released yet.
Our firm’s bike accident lawyers want to give you some friendly reminders for bike safety when you hit the road on your two wheeled vehicle:
- Always wear your helmet
- Never cut in front of traffic
- Signal, even if you think no one is looking
- Obey all the laws of the road as if you were in a car
Overall, we want to help you and your family after your bicycle accident. If we represent you after your bicycle accident, we want you to know that you no longer have to worry about dealing with the legalities of the case. You will have our full attention and dedication from the moment we take your bicycle accident case.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a bicycle accident we urge you to contact our bilingual offices as soon as possible following the accident at 1-800-655-6585 or please click here for a free consultation with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer. We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis, which means that you do not pay anything until we recover money on your behalf.
About Michael PinesMichael Pines is a former insurance company attorney who specializes in car accident injury. While he was an insurance attorney, he learned from behind the scenes on how insurance companies work and how they decided to pay injured people. Now that he works against insurance companies, Michael's inside knowledge has resulted in significant benefits to his clients injured in car accidents.
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Tags: bicycle safety tips, fatal bicycle accident, San Diego Police Department
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