Antioch, CA ‒ On December 10, 2024, 33-year-old bicyclist Brandon Hasenpusch was injured by a vehicle in a hit-and-run collision, according to NBC Bay Area.
The Antioch Police Department reports that the crash took place at the intersection of Sycamore Street and L Street.
Nearby surveillance cameras recorded video of Hasenpusch riding his bike through a crosswalk when he was struck by a white two-door sedan. Authorities have stated that, while Hasenpusch may not have had the right of way at the time of the crash, that did not absolve the driver of their duty of care toward him.
Hasenpusch survived the crash and was taken to a nearby medical facility, where he received several days of treatment for injuries which included a broken leg, lacerated liver, and a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
As of a week later, Hasenpusch was still recovering from his injuries. While unable to hold a conversation, he had regained the ability to sit up and speak a few words. It remains unclear if a full recovery is possible.
Investigators are continuing to seek the driver involved in this tragic hit-and-run collision.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Duty of Care Toward Bicyclists
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards bicyclists, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for bicyclists with whom they share the road and, if a collision occurs, staying with the victim to ensure they get proper medical treatment and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those injured in a bicycle accident, filing a Personal Injury claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
