When an elite Colorado cyclist was on his way home after a training session on July 20, he was struck by a cargo van. As in many hit-and-run accidents, police are now asking witnesses to help them find the driver who fled the scene of the crash. The cyclist was later found by another motorist who made a 911 call that sent emergency workers who arranged for the cyclist to be airlifted to a Denver hospital.
The cyclist’s family says he is a strong, healthy and passionate cyclist who knew the rules of the road. They say he was found in an area where there is a wide shoulder, and they assert he would not ride in the roadway when there was sufficient space for cyclists on the side of the road. It is believed that the car that struck the cyclist was traveling at a high rate of speed. That driver then failed to remain at the crash scene and left the critically injured cyclist to die.
Reportedly, the cyclist was left with life-threatening injuries that included organ damage, fractured bones and significant loss of blood. He has been kept in a sedated state since the accident and has been unable to communicate with his family. Until they can talk to him, they have no information about the circumstances that caused his accident.
Although, in most cases, Colorado Police catch up with drivers who cause hit-and-run accidents, not knowing their identities complicates the victims’ ability to recover damages. However, it is always a good idea to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who might recover some losses through insurance. At the time when a driver is identified, a civil lawsuit might be a viable option, and the lawyer can provide valuable support and guidance every step along the way.
