Bicyclist killed in hit-and-run accident in Galveston

Galveston, TX – A 77-year-old man died early Sunday morning after a truck struck his bicycle in the 2300 block of 53^rd Street.

According to Click2Houston, the crash occurred at around 6:00 a.m. near Avenue R. Witnesses reported that the driver of a white or silver Ford pickup truck carrying a ladder struck the bicyclist, continued driving, and fled west on Avenue S/Stewart Road.

A witness called 911 and remained at the scene with the victim, who was transported to a local hospital and later died due to his injuries.

Authorities are still trying to identify the hit-and-run driver and encourage anyone with information to contact the Galveston Police Department.

How Common Are Hit-and-Run Accidents?

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2,872 people died in hit-and-run collisions in one recent year. Of these, 1,818 were pedestrians and 274 were pedalcyclists. Another report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety revealed that only California saw more fatal hit-and-run accidents than Texas.

All Texas drivers have a legal duty to stop after an accident. Failure to stop after a collision resulting in serious bodily injury is a third-degree felony, while failure to stop after a collision resulting in death is a second-degree felony. In addition to criminal penalties, hit-and-run drivers may also face civil liability, as victims have the right to seek compensation for their losses.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Collision

The moments immediately following a hit-and-run accident can feel disorienting. If possible, move to safety and call 911. Remain calm and alert at the scene and take any steps you can to preserve key evidence. The process of seeking justice when an at-fault driver flees can present some unique challenges, but there are important measures you can take in the days and weeks that follow to protect your rights and strengthen any potential claim:

• Write down everything you remember about the fleeing vehicle, such as its color, make, model, license plate number (even if only partially known), and direction of travel.
• Photograph the scene, including damage to your vehicle, debris, skid marks, and any injuries.
• Ask witnesses for their names, contact details, and any photos or dashcam footage they may have.
• File a police report as soon as possible and obtain a copy for your records.
• Notify your insurance company promptly and inquire about your uninsured motorist coverage.
• Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries, to document any trauma and prevent complications.
• Keep records of all expenses, medical visits, and time missed from work.
• Follow up regularly with law enforcement about the investigation.
• Consider consulting a Houston personal injury lawyer to review your recovery options and handle communications with insurers.

Contact a Houston Accident Attorney to Discuss Your Case

Were you or someone you love involved in a vehicle accident someone else caused? An experienced lawyer can help you seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other financial and personal losses. Consider reaching out to a Houston collision lawyer today to share your story and learn more about your legal options.