A 53-year-old man was seriously injured in a Garden Grove car accident after his bicycle was struck by a vehicle, which did not stop at the scene. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the hit-and-run collision occurred early morning on July 2, 2010 at the intersection of Magnolia Street and Chapman Avenue. Garden Grove police officials say the man sustained serious injuries, including a broken leg, and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

View Larger Map

Police say the bicyclist was traveling north on Magnolia when he was struck by a vehicle going east on Chapman. So far officials have not found anyone who witnessed the crash. Anyone who has information about the hit-and-run vehicle or suspect is asked to contact Garden Grove police at 714-741-5823.

My heart goes out to this injured bicyclist. I truly hope the hit-and-run driver will soon be apprehended and brought to justice. I wish the injured victim the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

Bicycle accidents

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities but 57 injuries involving bicycle accidents in Garden Grove. In Orange County as a whole, 10 fatalities and 1,087 injuries were reported as a result of bicycle accidents during the same year.

Laws and Compensation Issues

Leaving the scene of a crash is a serious crime under California law. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident." Motorists are required by law to stop, remain at the scene of the crash, exchange important information and provide assistance to the injured victim. In this particular case, it appears that the driver who hit the bicyclist chose to do none of the above. I trust officials are also looking into whose fault this street intersection collision was.

In such cases, injured victims would be well-advised to contact an experienced Garden Grove personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also advise victims about how their car insurance policy might apply to a hit-and-run accident or to an incident where the at-fault motorist is uninsured or underinsured.

What are some of the most dangerous intersections in your city for bicyclists?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.