Driver Sought in Hit-and-run Bicycle Accident near Los Osos Valley Road and Madonna Road
On December 6, 2022, a hit-and-run accident occurred in San Luis Obispo, causing injuries to a bicyclist. Let’s explore the details of the news with Ehline Law and our Central Cal bicycle personal injury attorneys.
Felony Hit and Run in San Luis Obispo as Driver Flees Accident Scene
The hit-and-run accident occurred at around 5 50 PM near Los Osos Valley Road and Madonna Road in San Luis Obispo. According to the San Luis Obispo Fire officials, the injured bicyclist suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was immediately moved to a local hospital for medical treatment.
Police report that the woman driving Toyota 4Runner stopped briefly after hitting the bicyclist near the Shell gas station. The driver went to check up on the bicyclist and did not render aid as she returned to her Toyota 4Runner and headed westbound on Los Osos Valley Road.
The injured bicyclist described how the woman looked to the law enforcement authorities to help expedite the investigations.
Andrea Wilson Arrested and Facing Criminal Charges
On December 8, 2022, the San Luis Obispo police arrested Andrea Wilson, the 46-year-old woman who had hit the bicyclist and fled the accident scene without offering help.
The authorities booked Wilson in San Luis Obispo County Jail on charges of felony hit-and-run. Prosecutors have the burden of proof and will have to prove Wilson’s crime in criminal court.
When Does an Accident Constitute as a Hit and Run?
State law requires all parties involved in an accident to handle the incident properly, and their responsibility includes the following steps:
- Stopping the vehicle and moving to a safe location
- Exchange contact details with the other parties involved
- If any person suffers injuries, call emergency services
- Call the police for assistance and report the incident.
If a driver hits an unoccupied vehicle, it is their responsibility to make reasonable efforts to identify the property owner and notify them of the accident. They can leave a note with their contact details and how the incident occurred.
When a driver fails to follow the steps mentioned above and flees the accident scene, they fail to follow their legal responsibilities, which may constitute a hit-and-run.
What Are the Criminal Penalties for Hit and Run Accidents?
In most states, a hit-and-run involving an unoccupied vehicle may result in a misdemeanor. On the other hand, if the person flees the accident scene after injuring or killing someone, it can lead to a felony hit and run, resulting in significant jail time and criminal fines of up to $20,000.
Can an Injured Victim Pursue a Personal Injury Claim after a Hit-and-run Accident?
Even if a criminal case is going on against a negligent person, an injured victim can bring a civil action at the same time to recover compensation for their damages.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Ehline Law Bicycle Lawyers in Los Osos
If you suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, call (833) LETS-SUE for a free consultation, as you may be eligible for compensation.
