Los Angeles, CA (October 26, 2023) 65-year-old Francisco Gonzalez was killed in a hit-and-run accident on Tuesday, October 24th, while riding his bicycle in southeast Los Angeles. Officers arrested Felipe Avalos, 66, following the hit-and-run. The collision occurred around 9:00 a.m. as Gonzalez was crossing near 115th Street, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
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Gonzalez was crossing the street near 115th Street when he was hit by a van heading south on Broadway. Gonzalez became lodged under the van and was dragged down several city streets for nearly a mile in the southeast Los Angeles area. Authorities do not know why the driver of the van didn’t stop. He finally became dislodged at Broadway and El Segundo Boulevard, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Emergency crews arrived and pronounced Gonzalez dead at the scene. Avalos fled the scene and was later caught and arrested. He was booked on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter, according to police. There were reports that Gonzalez may have been intentionally struck, but police officers couldn’t officially confirm this.
Witnesses aided in finding the suspect by giving police officers the license plate of the van as well as a description of the van and its driver. They found the van parked in a driveway at a Compton house.
Liability In Los Angeles Bicycle Accidents
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting bicyclists and other pedestrians. According to California Vehicle Code 21200, “A person riding a bicycle or operating a pedicab upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle by this division, including, but not limited to, provisions concerning driving under the influence of alcoholic beverages or drugs, and by Division 10.” There are number of common causes of motorcycle accidents including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Driver fatigue
- Prescription drug use
- Inclement weather
The family of any victim that died in a car accident may be able to seek justice through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is extremely important that evidence is properly preserved and protected after an accident. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Los Angeles Bicycle Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Francisco Gonzalez. Any person that may have seen what happened should reach out to police as they continue their investigation. There needs to be a thorough investigation for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Los Angeles? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We are committed to making sure that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have questions about the law or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.