Investigators have determined that a bicycle accident that happened in November was caused by the negligence of a bus driver. The male driver was employed by Kitsap Transit bus company and was transporting three passengers when he struck a bicyclist on November 3rd at around 6:30 a.m. The 55-year-old bus driver told police that he did not see the bicyclist but heard the bus strike him. One of the passengers claimed that the bicyclist had a headlight and tail light that could be seen from inside the bus just before the accident. A witness traveling behind the bus told police that the bus had veered a couple of feet onto the shoulder where the bicyclist was traveling. That witness also confirmed that the victim was using lights on the bicycle. The 52-year-old victim was airlifted to the hospital for serious injuries including broken ribs, vertebrae, and a broken pelvis. Kitsap Transit placed the bus driver on paid suspension during the investigation, and it is unknown if he has been allowed to return to work.
The majority of all bicycle and pedestrian accidents involve a driver of a vehicle not seeing the individual. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourage all pedestrian and bicyclists to wear reflective clothing, travel in well-lit areas, and use sidewalks and crosswalks when available. However, the most visible pedestrian or bicyclist still has a chance of being struck by a vehicle due to the negligence of the driver. Unfortunately, distracted driving, fatigued driving, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol are to blame for these accidents. If a negligent driver caused you to suffer damages, you may be entitled to compensation.
The bicycle accident attorneys at Meyerkord & Kurth have recovered over $350 million in compensation and fight to recover the maximum amount possible for your case. Our attorneys will work diligently on your case while communicating with you throughout the process. Contact us today for a free no-obligation consultation.