Los Angeles Injury Attorney Blog

A 66-year-old Tustin man has been arrested following a major injury collision with a 23-year-old bicyclist Wednesday night in Tustin. The accident happened about 7:30 p.m., on Walnut Avenue near the intersection of Browning Avenue. According to the Orange County Register, the bicyclist was rear-ended by a red Ford Mustang driven by Renato Demartino, 66, of Tustin. Demartino reportedly fled the scene and abandoned his vehicle in a cul-de-sac in the 13000 block of Epping Way. His vehicle was found about three hours after the accident. Demartino was located at his home nearby a short time later and was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run. The bicyclist suffered severe head trauma and remained hospitalized at Western Medical Center in Santa Ana in critical condition Thursday.

Drivers Must Stop at the Scene of an Accident

There is never any excuse for not stopping at the scene of an accident, and it is unclear why the driver fled the scene of this accident. Under the California Vehicle Code § 20001, "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident." It is fortunate that law enforcement was able to locate the suspected hit-and-run driver.

Bicycle Accident Personal Injury Liability

The family of the seriously injured bicyclist would likely benefit from talking with a California bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. If news accounts are accurate and the hit-and-run driver is responsible for the Tustin car vs. bicycle accident, he may be held financially responsible for the victim's serious injuries, including medical care expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering and other related expenses. A skilled attorney can help the victim and his family protect their legal rights to recover the maximum compensation possible following this very serious bicycle accident. As a general rule, it is advisable for injured victims to consult with a lawyer before making statements to an insurance adjustor or accepting any settlement offer.