Edwin Bermudez, an Oakland motorcycle officer, was injured in an Oakland car accident after a red light runner struck him at a local intersection the night of June 1, 2010. According to a news report in the Oakland Tribune, the officer was struck by an 18-year-old driver who ran a red light at the intersection of 98th Avenue and Empire Road in Oakland. The impact from the collision caused the officer to become airborne. The injured officer was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. He is expected to survive. Police say alcohol was not a factor, but an investigation is ongoing.

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My heart goes out to this officer. I'm relieved to hear that his injuries were not life-threatening. I wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. He will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Motorcycle Accidents

There were six deaths and 159 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Oakland, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 traffic accident statistics. In Alameda County as a whole, 14 people died and 495 were injured as a result of motorcycle accidents during the same year.

Red Light Running

Failing to stop for a red light is illegal under California law. California Vehicle Code section 21453 (a) states: "A driver facing a circular red signal shall stop at the limit line before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown."

Liability Issues

I trust officials are looking into how and why the teen driver sped through the intersection, against the light? Was he distracted? Was he speeding and could not stop in time for the light? Was he simply trying to "make the light?"

It appears that the officer was on-the-job at the time. If that was the case, he would be entitled to workers compensation benefits. If the other driver is ultimately determined to have been at fault, he could also be held liable for the officer's injuries. In such cases, injured victims could seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization and rehabilitation.

It would be in the best interests of victims in such cases to retain the services of an experienced Oakland personal injury lawyer, who will examine all aspects of the accident and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.

Are you in favor of red light cameras as a way to deter red light runners?

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.