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Wrong-way driver crashes into cyclists, paralyzing La Jolla man

On Behalf of | Sep 23, 2014 | Pedestrian Accidents |

Many cyclists in San Diego may be seen riding in a pack along the city’s roads. Training with a group is a great way for people to reach their fitness goals, as it provides motivation, camaraderie and support. Unfortunately, riding with the group does not guarantee protection from a hit-and-run accident or other run-in with an irresponsible driver. As one cyclist has learned, serious injuries can result from such an experience.

In the middle of August, a La Jolla man was finishing up his ride with roughly 30 other cyclists. The pack was on Fiesta Island when a 49-year-old woman drove the wrong way and crashed into the group. The man, who is a husband and a father, pushed another rider out of the way and suffered much of the impact. He is now paralyzed from the chest down. Several others in the group were also sent to the hospital with injuries.

As a result of the incident, local leaders have announced that the island’s safety will be enhanced with additional road signs posting the speed limit, indicating wrong-way driving and pointing out directions using arrows. A popular spot for bicyclists, Fiesta Island will also gain signs announcing for motorists to share the road.

While the cyclists continue to recover physically and mentally from the incident, the driver remains in jail, awaiting another court hearing in early October. The woman has been charged with felony DUI causing injury as well as possession of a controlled substance. People who are victims of pedestrian accidents should get in touch with an attorney to explore a personal injury claim, which can provide compensation for medical expenses.

Source: NBC San Diego, “New Road Signs, Arrows Coming to Fiesta Island,” Monica Garske, Sept. 9, 2014

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