LOMITA VILLAGE -- A 73-yeear-old bicyclist was killed Sunday morning when he was struck by a Dodge Caravan minivan on Skyline Drive, NBC San Diego reported. The victim, Ignacio Manriques Sanchez, of San Diego, was riding westbound in the 8000 block of Skyline Drive at about 7:30 a.m. when he was struck by a minivan that was also travelling westbound on Skyline. According to police, the 47-year-old woman driving the minivan veered to the right and struck the cyclist in the bike lane. Motorists passing the accident called 911 and although paramedics responded and initiated CPR, Sanchez died of his injuries at the scene of the crash.
Cause of the Fatal Bicycle Accident
The cause of the March 6th San Diego bicycle accident remains under investigation by the San Diego Police Department. However, if news reports are accurate, it is likely that the driver of the minivan was responsible for the crash. It is unclear why the woman veered into the bike lane - was she distracted by a cell phone, did she fall asleep at the wheel, or was she driving under the influence? Hopefully the investigation by law enforcement will reveal exactly what happened and why.
Bicycle Accident Wrongful Death Liability
If the driver of the minivan is determined to be responsible for this accident, she could face manslaughter charges. Additionally, the family may hold her liable for Sanchez's wrongful death. While this Lomita bicycle accident remains under investigation, the family of Ignacio Sanchez would be well-advised to speak with an experienced San Diego bicycle accident lawyer. An experienced attorney who understands the unique legal issues of car vs. bicycle accidents will be able to advise the victim's family of their legal rights and best course of action following this accident. The family may be entitled to damages for funeral and burial expenses, lost earnings or benefits, and loss of love, care, and companionship.
After a San Diego bicycle accident, call Estey Bomberger at 619-312-4399 for a free consultation.
Sources: Lemon Grove Patch, NBC San Diego
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