Ottawa Lawyer: Ottawa Cyclist Struck By Alleged Drunk Driver

OTTAWA- On February 2, 2012, an Ottawa cyclist was hit by a car driven by, what some witnesses claim was, a drunk driver.  The 31 year old cyclist was riding in Ottawa on Carling Avenue near Archibald St. when he was struck.  He was rushed to hospital with critical head injuries, according to paramedics who were on the scene.  Police are investigating and charges are pending.

Police responded to a call from employees of the LCBO in Ottawa’s Hampton Park Plaza who refused to serve the driver as he appeared heavily intoxicated.  They then notified police when they saw him getting behind the wheel of his car.

Ottawa has seen its share of car-bicycle related accidents the last few years and this latest incident is a reminder of how quickly tragedy can occur to the more vulnerable commuters who share our streets like bicycles and motorcycles.  While it is up to police and all drivers to help maintain safety on the road, if provides little comfort when that safety fails.  Legal action is often the strongest recourse.

The young man who was struck this afternoon and his family will need to contact a professional, qualified personal injury lawyer.  They will need to deal with injury compensation and claims benefits for injuries and work loss amongst many other legal issues.  While secondary to health and recovery, it is a crucial form of financial recovery, compensation and justice for such accidents.

With each tragedy comes the hope that something good will come from our education.  This latest incident inOttawawill once again open a number of issues:  The prevention of drinking and driving and reviewing increased penalties, the safety of all cyclists and the need for more bike lanes and the importance of legal representation, compensation and resources for the victims.

Let us hope this latest incident can provide all of us with some insight on these important issues in hopes of preventing and helping victims in the future. If you or a loved one has suffered a cycling injury, contact the personal injury lawyers at Auger Hollingsworth for a free no charge consultation.  Call us at 613 233-4529.

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