Jason Shevach, of Burlingame, Injured In Santa Barbara Hit-And-Run Collision While Riding Bicycle Along Highway 154
SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA (April 28, 2022) – A bicyclist identified as Jason Shevach was injured in a Santa Barbara a hit-and-run car accident along Highway 154.
Santa Barbara County police officials are saying that the accident took place around 7:30 p.m. on April 16. Jason Shevach was riding his bicycle when he was struck from behind by a Toyota Scion XB.
That driver fled the scene of the collision and is currently being sought by police. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim.
Jason Shevach was flown via CalSTAR to the Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital with major injuries. The Scion is believed to be missing its emblem. It may also have damage to the right front side of the vehicle.
CHP is asking anyone with more information to contact their Buellton office.
Liability In Santa Barbara Hit-And-Run Car Accidents
Far too many people are killed or seriously injured in hit-and-run collisions every year. According to Value Penguin, “California experienced the largest share of fatal hit-and-runs [between 2,012 to 2016]. The number of Golden State crashes accounted for 17% of the U.S. total, with 2,948 crashes causing 3,056 deaths.” Around 32% of all drivers involved in a fatal collision were intoxicated at the time of the crash. But there are many factors that could contribute to an accident.
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Traffic conditions
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care to avoid hitting bicyclists. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21200, bicyclists have all of the rights and obligations afforded to the driver of any vehicle. Many bicycle accidents are due to drivers that commit traffic infractions such as speeding or unsafe lane changes. Any driver that is negligent and hits a bicyclist can face liability through a civil claim.
If a driver hits a bicyclist and then flees the scene, they could also face criminal liability. It is illegal to flee the scene of any collision that results in bodily injury or death under California Vehicle Code 20001. All drivers must remain at the scene, call police and exchange insurance information with the affected party. Victims of bicycle accidents tend to suffer very serious injuries including:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- PTSD
Any person that is injured in a bicycle accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. It is important that evidence is properly collected after any hit-and-run collision. Even fragments of the fleeing vehicle can help track down the driver that fled the scene. A bicycle accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Santa Barbara Hit-And-Run Bicycle Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our best wishes to Jason Shevach as he continues to recover. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. The driver responsible for this crash should do the right thing and turn themselves in. It’s never too late to do the right thing.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a hit-and-run collision? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of bicycle safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
