As reported in local news, Tucson has once again been the scene of yet another wrongful death following a hit-and-run accident between an apparently-intoxicated driver and an innocent bicyclist. The victim this time was a 58-year-old Tucson citizen. Although the accident was witnessed and the victim was quickly transported to a hospital, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after admission there.
Late-night cyclist meets drunken motorist
Fortunately, the suspect in this case has been apprehended. She’s a 23-year-old local resident, and is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.
News reports indicate that the male bicycle rider was enjoying a late-night ride southbound in the bike lane on Oracle Road near Jacinto Street at about 12:25 a.m. That’s when the allegedly tipsy female driver drifted into the bike lane and struck him from behind. She then apparently left the scene at a high rate of speed.
Although it was already too late to help the bicycle crash victim, the fleeing driver was followed by a vigilant citizen to a residential area near the intersection of Grant and Silverbell Roads, where the suspect vehicle, a 1996 four-door Honda, was later found abandoned by Tucson police in the apartment complex at 2299 North Silverbell.
By canvassing the area, police learned the name of the vehicle’s driver, and she was arrested at her home in the apartment complex. At the time of her arrest, she was reportedly still showing signs of intoxication. Of course, she was booked into the Pima County Jail on charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
A worrisome trend
In recent years, Tucson-area roadways have become more crowded with motor vehicles and bicycles. Our population is growing, and many people seeking a healthier and “greener” lifestyle are now choosing cycling for transportation instead of cars. The downside is that bicycles are more vulnerable to roadway accidents, especially those fueled by alcohol, as appears to be the case here.
Although courts may punish intoxicated drivers, the families of those who suffer wrongful death need more concrete results.
If you or a loved one has been affected by the wrongful death of a family member in Pima County, whether through a traffic accident or otherwise, you should contact the Bob Barber Law Firm, Tucson’s leading advocates for victims of wrongful death.
We can help
Bob Barber can find the answers you need, help hold irresponsible drivers accountable for their actions, and work to obtain the financial relief to which you are entitled. To begin the healing process today, call the Bob Barber Law Firm at 520-293-4440.