Bicycle Crash Occurred As Pickup Was Passing On Right Side Of Road
Turlock, CA (May 17, 2017) – A bicyclist was killed Wednesday morning when a 2016 silver Chevy Silverado pickup truck fatally struck him along the right side of the roadway.
The bicyclist was identified as Nathan Miller of Denair, California. Miller was riding along the white line on the right side of the road, heading eastbound on East Avenue near its intersection of Santa Fe Avenue in Turlock. Chad Russell of Turlock was traveling on East Avenue in the same direction as Miller. Russell struck Miller’s bicycle with with the front right side of his truck.
As reported by the Modesto Bee, CHP officers spent hours investigating the crash site, taking photos and measurements. Miller’s bicycle was split in half at the frame and pieces were scattered along the roadway, according to the Modesto Bee. CHP spokesman Officer Thomas Olsen stated, “There is no indication of braking. … Why he did not see the rider is under investigation.”
Miller had been a member of the armed forces and his body was draped in an American flag after the crash took place.
California Law Requires Drivers Always To Give Bicyclists Space Passing
The California Three Feet for Safety Act (California Vehicle Code Section 21670) mandates drivers who overtake and pass a bicycle that is proceeding in the same direction on the roadway “shall do so at a safe distance that does not interfere with the safe operation of the overtaken bicycle.”
The law requires that drivers provide a three feet buffer between their vehicles and bicycles when passing. However the law recognizes that this may not always be possible due to “traffic or roadway conditions.” In such circumstances, the driver must (1) slow to a reasonable and prudent speed when passing and (2) only pass when doing so would not endanger the safety of the bicyclist.
Contact A Bike Accident Attorney Today
The Dolan Law Firm represents injured bicyclists and the families of loved one who died in bicycle crashes across California. We are proud to have been repeatedly recognized as one of the best injury law firms in California.
If you or a loved one have been in a serious bike crash due to the fault of another, contact our attorneys today by completing our contact form or call 415-636-8160. We will review your case for free, promptly and with no obligation on your part.
