Many Washington residents enjoy cycling, especially during the warmer months. Some people use a bicycle as their primary mode of transportation, while others enjoy it as a leisure activity as it provides them exercise and a chance to see off-road sites they would not see while traveling in a car. Sometimes, however, cyclists travel on the same roadways as larger, motorized vehicles. Unfortunately, when collisions happen, most often, the person on the bicycle does not fare well. Such was the case when, recently, a bicyclist suffered serious personal injury when she was hit by a tow truck.
Reportedly, the 65-year-old woman was cycling on a roadway near Mead early one Friday morning. She was nearing an intersection when she was struck by the tow truck. Apparently, she was wearing a helmet. A Washington State Patrol spokesperson has said the victim suffered serious injuries and was transported via helicopter to a hospital in Spokane.
A police press memo stated that drugs or alcohol were involved in the crash. According to court documents, the 46-year-old truck driver had a licence suspension last year related to drunk driving. State troopers are continuing to investigate the crash.
Some Washington residents may find it difficult to understand why some drivers, even following a DUI charge, continue to make the reckless decision to ingest alcohol and/or drugs before driving. Sadly, some do, as seems to be the case here. In addition to suffering physically and emotionally, this woman and her family are likely encountering various unexpected expenses, such as medical costs and possibly lost future income. Often, victims of car accidents like this one turn to an attorney experienced in personal injury law who can advise them of their legal options moving forward.