Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa was injured in a bicycle accident after a taxicab stopped in front of him the evening of July 17, 2010, LA Weekly reports. Los Angeles police officials say Villaraigosa was riding his bike in the 8600 block of Venice Boulevard, near Culver City's restaurant row, when the collision occurred. He sustained a broken elbow and underwent surgery, but is expected to recover.

Police say Villaraigosa was in the bike lane when the taxicab cut him off. The cab driver then left the scene of the accident. It is not clear whether any members the mayor's security detail got a description of the taxicab or the license plate number. LAPD's West Traffic Division is investigating this incident.

It is indeed fortunate that the mayor was not badly injured in this bicycle versus vehicle accident. I wish him the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. He will be in my prayers.

Bicycle Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 10 fatalities and 1,518 injuries involving bicycle accidents in Los Angeles. In Los Angeles County as a whole, 33 people died and 3,315 were injured as a result of bicycle accidents.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Leaving the scene of an accident or hit-and-run is a serious crime under California law. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident."

Protecting Victims' Rights

I trust this hit-and-run driver will be soon apprehended and brought to justice. The law requires motorists to stop and remain at the scene of an accident and assist the injured victim. However, in this case, the driver fled the scene of the crash. When apprehended, he or she could face a felony hit-and-run charge for leaving the scene of an injury crash.

In such cases, typically, injured victims would be well-advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.

What are some ways law enforcement officials can encourage members of the public to provide more information about hit-and-run drivers?

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

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