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A California bicyclist has been sentenced to community service and probation after allegedly killing a pedestrian, according to a report from Reuters. Renowned bicycle accident attorney Jeff Nadrich weighs in.
LOS ANGELES, CA -- A California bicyclist has been sentenced to community service and probation after allegedly killing a pedestrian, according to a report from Reuters. The suspect, 37-year-old Chris Bucchere, pleaded guilty to felony vehicle manslaughter after hitting and killing 71-year-old Sutchi Hui on his bike last year, and will serve 1,000 hours of community service. Renowned bike accident lawyer Jeff Nadrich recently commented on the conviction, which is believed to be the first of its kind in California.
According to Nadrich, “We don't typically hear about bicyclists being convicted of vehicular manslaughter, but it's not unprecedented that such a sentence should be handed down. If you look at our California statutes, bicyclists are awarded the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, and bicycles are commonly identified under the umbrella of motor vehicles. Bicyclists are responsible for following the same laws, honoring the same speed limits and sharing the same roads. It is appropriate that they would be subject to the same consequences.”
Nadrich further noted that pedestrians' rights are often overlooked. “Pedestrians always have the right of way. Period. Whether you're riding a bike, driving a car or passing on a skateboard, it's important to remember that. Even a jaywalking pedestrian will usually prevail in a court of law if hit by a car or bike that was ostensibly driving legally, so it's important for all commuters to be mindful.”
According to the Reuters report, Bucchere was passing through a crowded intersection in the Castro District of San Francisco last March when he collided with Hui. The victim reportedly died 4 days later. According to San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon, "Mr. Hui was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who tragically lost his life in an incident that could have easily been prevented. Motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists must share the road in a responsible way because there are dire consequences when traffic laws are disregarded."
About Nadrich & Cohen: Jeffrey Nadrich is a bicycle accident attorney with Nadrich & Cohen, a California based law firm with offices in 18 locations across the state. Nadrich & Cohen handles all types of wrongful death and serious injury accident cases, and victims are encouraged to call 1-800-718-4658 for a free consultation with a Nadrich & Cohen attorney.
Source:
Reuters: Cyclist sentenced for manslaughter by bike in landmark California case; August 15, 2013
