Bicyclist fatally injured in hit-and-run accident

A recent news report leaves more questions than it provides answers. Why would a bicyclist be on the road at 2:00 in the morning? Why would a car strike a bicyclist in an intersection with traffic control lights? How could someone fatally strike a bicyclist and then drive away?

A 23-year-old woman from West Yarmouth is expected to be charged for a fatal hit-and-run accident. In addition to the criminal charges, she could be held liable in civil court for the wrongful death of the cyclist.

News sources stated that the accident was reported at 2:00 a.m., although the time of the accident was not made clear. A female bicyclist was struck by a car in the intersection of Route 28 and Pitchers Way in Barnstable, Massachusetts. She was reported to have life-threatening injuries and was transported to Cape Cod Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Police located the vehicle they claim was involved in the accident. The car was on Main Street in Falmouth — about 6 miles away from the accident scene. The driver claimed to be aware that she struck something, but she kept on driving without checking to see what or whom she may have hit. Criminal charges are expected to be filed, although the accident is still being investigated.

There was no mention whether or not alcohol or drugs were involved in the accident.

It was also not mentioned whether or not the bicyclist was wearing a helmet, although it may not have mattered. What could have mattered most is that the woman receives prompt medical attention. Cape Cod Hospital is very close to the accident scene. By hitting the cyclist and driving away, the 23-year-old driver could be viewed as negligent. The cyclist’s family could seek compensation for the wrongful death of the woman who died.

Source: The Boston Globe, “Yarmouth woman faces charges in Hyannis fatal hit and run,” Alli Knothe, june 14, 2012