A car accident in Irvine proved fatal for a bicyclist whom authorities have identified as 28-year-old Christian Rhineer. The Orange County Register reports that the fatal bicycle accident happened on Von Karman Avenue at Michelson Drive. Rhineer who was riding his bike at the intersection war hit by a Volvo sedan driven by a 26-year-old man. Rhineer sustained life-threatening injuries. He died from his injuries the same day. The investigation is ongoing.

My heartfelt sympathies go out to everyone who knew and loved Christian Rhineer for their devastating loss. His grieving family will be in my prayers.

Bicycle Accidents

There were 12 fatalities and 1,199 injuries involving bicycle accidents in Orange County, according to California Highway Patrol’s 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In the city of Irvine, there were no fatalities but 70 injuries reported as a result of bicycle accidents in 2009.

Laws and Liability Issues

It appears that investigators are still looking into who had the right-of-way at the time of the collision. Under California law, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists. Also, California Vehicle Code section 21800 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from a different highway."

If it is determined that the driver was at fault, then, he can be held liable for Rhineer’s wrongful death. It would be in the best interests of victims’ families in such cases to seek the counsel of a skilled Irvine personal injury lawyer, who will help protect their legal rights. A knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney will also be able to determine whether a dangerous roadway condition caused or contributed to the incident. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway can also be held liable. Under California Government Code Section 911.2, any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a public entity must be filed within 180 days of the incident.