Hit-And-Runs in SOMA Seriously Injure Cyclist and Pedestrian
On Thursday, March 22, 2018, a San Francisco cyclist and a pedestrian were badly injured in separate hit-and-run car crashes in the South of Market district. According to the San Francisco Examiner, the first accident happened at 6:20PM on Folsom Street near the intersection with 12th Street. Police say they believe a driver struck the cyclist and then fled the area. Some reports from the scene of the accident suggest the driver got out of his car to check on the bicyclist, but then he quickly got into his car and drove away. The cyclist, 58, was quickly transported to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.
Police say the second crash happened around 7:45PM on Jessie Street near the intersection with 6th Street. When rescue crews arrived on the scene they found a man in his late 50s lying on the street with major injuries. Apparently a car made a sharp turn, struck the man, and just kept driving. Safety officials brought this person to a hospital where he is now receiving treatment for his injuries.
Did you see this crash?
Unfortunately, nobody got a clear view of the cars involved in these hit-and-run cases. Police are working with witnesses and the survivors to get a better idea what exactly happened in these crashes. Anyone who has information on these hit-and-runs is urged to contact the anonymous tip line for San Francisco’s Southern branch at (415) 552-4901.
Important Steps To Take After A Hit-And-Run
Recent statistics suggest at least half of all hit-and-run cases in California don’t get solved. Since most of these accidents happen so fast, cyclists and eyewitnesses are often so flustered that they don’t get a good glimpse of the vehicle.
Although it’s very difficult to fully resolve hit-and-run cases, that doesn’t mean you can’t be compensated for damages. Anyone who carefully follows the tips below can increase their odds of winning a hit-and-run case, sometimes even if they aren’t able to track down the negligent driver.
The single most important thing you or someone near you can do after a hit-and-run is to call the police to the scene of the crime.
Throughout the course of your treatment, the more evidence you can gather will only help you in the long run. The most obvious piece of evidence you should keep is your damaged bike. You should also keep any clothing or safety gear you were wearing at the time of the accident, especially if they are torn or broken.
If you are admitted to a hospital, then it’s critical to get all your bills in paper form and make copies of them. Although it might not be possible for you to do so, it’s a great idea to take pictures of the scene of the crime. If you’re traveling with a friend or family member, or if you happen to see passers-by in the area, try to get them to take as many pictures as possible and send them to your phone.
Contact Bay Area Bicycle Law After A Hit-And-Run
There’s no law binding you to give your insurer medical authorization or a written statement immediately after a hit-and-run. It’s a far better idea to call a professional Bay Area Bicycle Lawyer for a free consultation before handing over any information to insurance companies.
The lawyers at Bay Area Bicycle Law are well-versed in California bicycle law and we have extensive experience with hit-and-run cases. Given the specifics of your case, we’ll let you know all of the options available to you, and if retained we’ll help you get everything you’re legally entitled to.
Hit-and-run accidents can change your life in the blink of an eye. In your hour of distress, don’t count on insurance companies to give you a helping hand. Give the attorneys at Bay Area Bicycle Law a call as soon as possible to help you better understand your rights.