Professional Cyclist Injured after Hit-and-Run Collision in Alexander Valley

A professional cyclist from New Zealand is in critical condition after being struck by a car in northern Sonoma County. On June 29, 2012, twenty-six-year-old Michael Torckler was on a training ride on Pine Flat Road in Alexander Valley. Pine Flat Road is dead-end road in the vicinity of Highway 128. It is popular among cyclists because it lightly travelled, picturesque, and steep. 

According to published reports, Torckler was riding downhill when he was struck by a car that was travelling uphill. The driver fled the scene following the accident. California Highway Patrol investigators put a bulletin out for a black Honda Accord. The next day, thirty-six-year-old suspect Arthur Ben Yu was arrested at his home in Rohnert Park. Preliminary reports suggest that Yu was intoxicated at the time of the accident. 

Following the collision, Torckler was airlifted to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. Torckler was reportedly in critical condition after suffering major facial fractures. Fortunately, it is reported that Torckler's injuries are no longer considered to be life threatening and he did not sustain any major brain trauma. At Matiasic Roth & Johnson LLP we wish the victim a speedy and complete recovery.

Cyclists do not have the same physical protection as drivers, and therefore often suffer fatal or severe injuries when drivers are negligent. A moment of driver inattention or recklessness can lead to life altering injuries and tremendous pain and suffering.

The bicycle accident lawyers at Matiasic Roth & Johnson LLP have extensive experience advocating on behalf of cyclists who have been injured as a result of driver negligence. Our compassionate trial lawyers are committed to making negligent drivers pay for the harm they cause. If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident contact our team of bicycle accident lawyers for a free consultation.