Salt Lake City, Utah Bicycle - Car Accident Turns Fatal
KSL News reported a serious Salt Lake City, Utah bicycle accident that took place on February 9, 2009. 61-year-old, Leroy Martinez was riding his bicycle early in the morning close to downtown Salt Lake City. He was riding north in a crosswalk at 1352 North and 830 South when he was suddenly struck by a Mazda. Police officials say the driver of the car saw the bicyclist but was unable to stop in time. Leroy Martinez was taken to the hospital in critical condition, but later died from his injuries. The accident is still under investigation, but the police allege that Mr. Martinez suddenly cut back into the car's lane of travel.
As more and more people are using bicycles for their commute, the rates of accidents are also increasing. In 2007, over 700 bicyclists died on the road. 90% of these fatalities resulted from accidents involving a motor vehicle. In Utah, an average of 940 bicyclists are injured each year. Additionally, an average of 7 Utah bicyclists die from traffic accidents every year. If you are riding your bike, please be sure to follow standard safety measures, including the use of a helmet. If you are a Utah driver, please keep your eye out for pedestrians and bicyclists and always remember to share the road.
Even though the media and police are quick to place fault with Mr. Martinez instead of the driver of the car, the Martinez family would benefit from talking to an experienced Utah Wrongful Death Lawyer to ensure the accident is properly investigated and all legal options are fully considered.
