One cyclist was killed while another was injured in separate bicycle accidents in Portland last week. Both collisions occurred on Northeast 22nd Avenue.

The Oregonian reported that on August 26, Thursday, 52-year-old James Neal Wagner was killed after a hit and run accident with an unknown car. Wagner was biking in the area of Northeast 122nd and Fremont street when the car accident occurred. When the police arrived on the scene, Wagner had already succumbed to his injuries and the driver had already fled. Police are requesting any witnesses to come forward with information.

Meantime, on Friday, another cyclist was injured after he collided with a Kia Sportage. According to the Oregonian, the car accident occurred early afternoon at Northeast 122nd Avenue and Glisan Street. The unidentified cyclist suffered serious injuries and was taken to the hospital while the police have arrested the driver of the Sportage on the possibility that the collision was intentional.

Third Fatal Bicycle Accident This Year

According to bikeportland.org, Mr. Wagner's accident was the third fatal bicycle accident in Portland this year. I would like to send my sincere condolences to his family and friends and I also urge any witnesses to come forward and help with the investigation to identify the driver who so callously fled the scene without attempting to help Mr. Wagner.

I also hope that the unidentified cyclist in Friday's collision recovers soon from his injuries.

Statistics from the Oregon Department of Transportation show that there were 657 accidents involving bicycles in the state in 2007 which resulted in 15 fatalities and 634 injuries. In Portland alone, four people were killed while 168 others were injured in 186 bicycle accidents during the same time period.

Portland Car Accident Lawyer

While the details of each of the collisions are still unclear, it is quite disturbing that both crashes took place in the same area. While police are investigating whether the second collision was intentional, one wonders how safe the area really is for cyclists.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident, please consult a Portland car accident lawyer who will help you fight for your rights. Aside from finding out what really happened, car accident attorneys will help also help victims and their families get the compensation they are entitled to for funeral or medical expenses and other damages. While there are many personal injury lawyers and car accident lawyers out there, the most reputable attorneys will always offer a free initial consultation to accident victims and their families.