Motorists are required by New Jersey law to stop and get medical treatment for parties they have injured in a vehicle collision. Still, many drivers seek to avoid their legal responsibility by fleeing the scene of an accident. The likelihood of a hit-and-run can be even higher when a car or truck strikes a bicycle, because the motor vehicle likely will not sustain severe damage in the crash. This is what happened in a fatal South Jersey incident.
Reports indicate that Neil Burman, a local resident, was struck by a car while cycling in Egg Harbor Township. First responders reported to the site of the accident and discovered Burman with life-threatening injuries. Despite efforts to save him, Burman was pronounced dead at the scene. According to law enforcement, the victim was struck by a 2011 Dodge Ram, but the driver did not stop after hitting Burman’s bicycle.
Anytime a car or truck collides with a bicycle, there is a high chance for a catastrophic injury as the rider has virtually nothing to protect them against the speed, weight and force of a motor vehicle. This makes the potential consequences of a hit-and-run even worse, because the driver might be the only person at the scene who can contact emergency personnel in time to save the cyclist.
Some of these cases occur because the motorist is distracted or impaired by drugs or alcohol. Bikes are much harder to see than cars when one’s focus is compromised. A person who knows they’ve violated the law while behind the wheel might have extra motivation to leave the accident scene, despite the law and moral obligation to help a victim in desperate need.
If you’ve been hurt in a bicycle accident caused by the operator of a car or truck, it is critical to get immediate medical attention and to speak with an attorney about your right to compensation. Cases involving hit-and-run drivers can be more complicated, but a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can advise how your auto insurance policy as well as state funds can assist you while the search continues for the liable motorist.
Seigel Law in Ridgewood firm handles all types of New Jersey bicycle injury claims, including cases where the potential defendant left the scene of the accident. Please call 201-444-4000 or contact us online to set up a free initial consultation.