Daniel Ornelas, 41, was seriously injured in a Portland car accident after his bicycle was hit by a car at a Gresham intersection. According to a news article in the Portland Tribune, Ornelas was riding his bike north on Southeast 187th Avenue and was crossing Stark Street in a marked crosswalk when a westbound vehicle on Stark hit him the afternoon of November 4, 2009. One of the vehicles stopped and yielded right-of-way for Ornelas, but a vehicle driven by 52-year-old Brian Cairns did not stop and struck Ornelas.

The bicyclist sustained serious head injury after he was knocked off his bike. Ornelas was apparently not wearing a helmet. He was transported to a local hospital. No arrests have been made in connection with this car accident pending a police investigation.

My heart goes out to Ornelas and his family for what they are going through right now. It is possible the severity of Ornelas' head injuries may have been lessened had he worn a bicycle helmet. I wish this man the very best for a quick and complete recovery. Please keep him in your prayers.

Bicycle Accidents in Portland

According to the Oregon Department of Transportation's (ODOT) 2007 traffic accident statistics, four fatalities and 168 injuries were reported in the city of Portland as a result of bicycle accidents. Overall, 33 fatalities and 3,537 injuries were reported as a result of all car accidents in Portland, Oregon, in 2007.

Based on this news report, it is not clear what caused Cairns to go right through the crosswalk and strike the bicyclist, who apparently seemed to have the right-of-way at this intersection. Police say alcohol does not seem to be a factor. So what caused Cairns to drive through the intersection when the other motorist stopped? Was Cairns distracted at the time of the collision? Was he driving too fast that he could not stop at the intersection in time to avoid the collision? Was Cairns driving recklessly or negligently? If I were a member of Ornelas' family, I would want to get some answers here.

Car Accident Liability Issues

If the motorist is determined to have been negligent, he could be held liable for Ornelas' injuries. In such cases, victims could seek compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings, cost of hospitalization, therapy and even long-term care, if that becomes necessary. Ornelas would be well-advised to contact an experienced Portland personal injury lawyer, who will protect his legal rights and make sure that he receives fair compensation for his injuries, damages and loss.

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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