A male biker was killed after getting hit by a vehicle on the freeway in Taft early Monday morning, July 15, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the bicycle vs. vehicle collision occurred around 12:57 a.m. on northbound Highway 33, south of Cadet Road.
Initial investigation suggested that a driver of a Toyota Highlander traveling northbound on the freeway tried passing the bicyclist but miscalculated the distance. The vehicle then struck the bicycle with its right front end, throwing the biker down on the ground.
The bicyclist, described only as a Taft man, was pronounced dead at the scene. CHP said that the victim was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
The driver in the Toyota was later identified as 32-year-old Denise A., also from Taft. There is no word yet on whether she was injured due to the crash.
CHP is still investigating the official cause of the collision. As of now, they have ruled out drugs or alcohol as possible factors.
Additional information was not immediately available.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
