Fatal bicycle crash could lead to wrongful death lawsuit

Many Colorado residents find pleasure in riding a bicycle, either as a relatively inexpensive transportation alternative to motorized vehicles or simply for leisure and exercise. Often, bicyclists will travel off-road, on trails and such, to enjoy nature and avoid traffic. However, sometimes cyclists travel on the same roadways as cars and trucks, and when a collision occurs, unfortunately, the cyclist does not usually fare well. Such was the case when a bicyclist was killed after being struck by a vehicle, and his family may now have grounds to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.

According to a Colorado State Patrol trooper, the 57-year-old Louisville man was riding west on his bicycle on a road in Boulder County late one recent morning. He was struck by an eastbound SUV that was making a left turn at an intersection. The cyclist was transported to a local hospital, but sadly, he was pronounced dead on arrival. The 67-year-old driver of the SUV, a Boulder resident, was not injured.

Reportedly, there has been some confusion as to whether the area was open to cyclists at the time of the crash. Apparently, initial reports indicated a complete closure to cyclists, but the Boulder County website states only that cyclists are required to merge with traffic due to ongoing construction. Police are continuing to investigate the crash and have stated that neither speed nor drugs or alcohol appear to have been factors. They have not filed charges at this point.

Whether the cyclist was on his way to work or some sort of social engagement or he was just out for some exercise and fresh air, unfortunately, he lost his life while doing so, possibly due to negligence and/or recklessness on the part of the driver. If evidence indicates the SUV driver is responsible, the victim’s family have every right to explore their legal options. In Colorado, as in other states, according to state law, those who have lost a loved one in this way have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the person believed responsible.