On the night of June 2, 2010, David Mark Clark was driving his Nissan Rogue sport utility vehicle through Potrero Hill when he encountered four bicyclists. As he drove, Clark hit each of the four cyclists with his vehicle. The four cyclists survived, but suffered serious injuries, including broken legs, bruised organs, lost teeth and a broken jaw.
Clark’s arraignment was initially scheduled for August, but was postponed until September 22. The Albany, California, man faces several charges, including four counts of attempted murder. This case brings to light the serious public safety issues that surround motor vehicles and bicycles.
Cyclists Face Serious Danger
Over 600 bicyclists were killed and another 51,000 injured on American roads in 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report on bicycle accidents. The fatalities accounted for 2 percent of all motor vehicle traffic deaths and 2 percent of crash-related injuries that same year. In 2008, 109 of California’s nearly 3,500 traffic fatalities were bicyclists.
The National Safety Council reports that cyclist-related injuries and deaths cost the public about $4 billion per year. Brain injuries and other head traumas are some of the more serious injuries that occur in bicycle-motor vehicle crashes. Other injuries often include broken bones, lacerations and bruises. Depending on the severity of the injuries, an injured cyclist may have a long recovery period and suffer physical harm that could have a lasting impact on his life.
Bicyclists risk a great deal when they attempt to share our nation’s roadways with fast-moving motor vehicles. Serious injuries, such as those suffered in the Clark cyclist crashes, often result in expensive hospital bills, permanent impairments or disabilities, and time lost from work. Subject to the mental health or attentiveness of motor vehicle operators, cyclists may find themselves the targets of road rage or driver carelessness.
An Experienced Attorney Can Help
If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident caused by the negligence of another, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages and more. For more information, contact an attorney today.
