Prosecutors in San Bernardino have charged two teenagers with vehicular manslaughter in connection with a bicycle accident in April, which claimed the life of 27-year-old pro bicyclist Jorge Alvarado. According to a news report in the San Bernardino Sun, the charges came more than two months after the crash, when the teens -- Patrick Roraff, 18, and Brett Morin, 20 -- were allegedly involved in a street-racing contest.

Vehicular Manslaughter Charges Filed

Prosecutors say the crash that killed Alvarado was caused by the two men street-racing. Officials say the men were driving at a high rate of speed and recklessly. Roraff lost control of his vehicle when he was trying to pass another car and struck Alvarado who was riding his bike. Police determined that Roraff was driving at more than 70 mph and that Morin was the driver of the other vehicle. The San Bernardino Sheriff's Department had recommended that murder charges be filed in connection with this fatal car accident. If convicted on vehicular manslaughter charges, both men face up to six years in state prison.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jorge Alvarado for their profound loss. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.

The Law Relating to Street Racing

Street-racing is not only a known menace on our streets, but it is illegal to get involved in a speed contest on a public roadway. California Vehicle Code section 23109 (a) states: "A person shall not engage in a motor vehicle speed contest on a highway. As used in this section, a motor vehicle speed contest includes a motor vehicle race against another vehicle, a clock, or other timing device. For purposes of this section, an event in which the time to cover a prescribed route of more than 20 miles is measured, but where the vehicle does not exceed the speed limits, is not a speed contest."

If these two men were in fact involved in street racing and are found guilty, I hope they receive the maximum punishment. I also hope Alvarado's family is talking to an experienced San Bernardino personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the case and make sure the negligent parties are also held civilly liable for their actions. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased car accident victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover medical or funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

Is street-racing common in your neighborhood or city? How do you think law enforcement can curb this serious problem?

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.