Cyclist Killed by Hit-and-Run Driver in Austin
A 73-year-old bicyclist died on Thursday after being struck by a hit-and-run driver in southeast Austin.
Details of the Fatal Bicycle Accident
According to KXAN, the fatal crash occurred March 30 around 9 a.m.
Police say a bicyclist was struck by a car in the 6300 block of East Stassney Lane. The driver fled the scene, leaving the victim, 73-year-old Keith Culver, without aid.
Culver was rushed to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries. He died the following day on March 31.
The Austin Police Department is now asking for the public’s help in identifying the hit-and-run driver. Police are looking for a small, four-door, dark-colored vehicle.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Highway Investigation Tip Line at (512) 974-8111.
What Are Some Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
When a bicycle accident does occur, it may not be immediately clear who is at fault. Below are a few common examples of bicycle accidents and who is typically at fault.
- A Car Pulls Out from a Side Street or Parking Lot – This is probably the most common cause of bicycle accidents involving a motor vehicle. Studies have found that drivers tend to look into the middle of the road for oncoming traffic (where cars would normally be) and often fail to check bike lanes or sidewalks. In this example, the driver is at fault as the bicyclist would have the right-of-way.
- A Driver Opens their Car Door into a Bicyclist – Motorists often fail to check their rear-view mirrors and blind spots for bicyclists before opening their door. In this case, the motorist would again be at fault provided the bicyclist was traveling in the same direction as traffic. If the bicyclist was traveling in the wrong direction, it could be shared fault.
- A Car Turns in Front of a Cyclist – If a car turns in front of a bicyclist, it is the motorist’s fault. Drivers are expected to check for motor traffic, bike lane traffic, and pedestrian traffic before completing a turn.
- A Car Hits a Bicyclist Traveling in the Same Direction – Currently, Texas does not have a state law for safe following distances or safe between distances when it comes to bicyclists. So, there can be confusion about what a safe distance is. Still, if a motorist strikes a bicyclist from behind, side-swipes a bicyclist, or enters a biking lane occupied by a cyclist, they will normally be held at fault.
Contact an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident in or around Austin, call Thomas J. Henry Law as soon as possible.
For nearly 30 years, our law firm has helped injured clients recover fair compensation for accidents and injuries. We have the experience and resources to handle your claim with the dedication you deserve.
Call now to speak with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer. We are available 24/7, nights and weekends.
