Maricopa County, AZ – James Thelen Killed in Bicycle Accident at Northern Ave
Maricopa County, AZ (January 5, 2020) – On Sunday afternoon, an 86-year-old man was hit and killed by a vehicle while riding his bicycle in Waddell.
The accident occurred just before 1:00 p.m. in the area of 177th Avenue and Northern Avenue. Authorities say James Thelen was riding his bike northbound on 177th Avenue near Northern Avenue when he was hit by a vehicle. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died.
The driver of the vehicle that hit Thelen remained on the scene.
The accident remains under investigation.
Our condolences go out to James Thelen’s family at this time.
Fatal Bicycle Accidents in Arizona
Per recent data released by the Arizona Department of Transportation, pedestrian and bicycle accidents are on the rise. In fact, approximately 40 percent of fatal bicycle crashes were caused by distracted drivers hitting cyclists, even when riders were observing traffic laws by using bike lanes or the sidewalk.
Cyclists are especially vulnerable to serious injuries or death after a crash. These victims are often left with high medical costs, long-term physical problems, and severe emotional trauma. And when victims succumb to their injuries after a bicycle crash, families are left to pick up the pieces. From negotiating with insurance companies and handling funeral costs to grieving their loved ones through it all, families must deal with devastating consequences in the aftermath of a crash. However, the victims and families affected by these bicycle accidents can seek legal aid from a skilled injury lawyer.
When it comes to advocating for victims and their families after a crash, ELG Law’s team of bicycle accident lawyers has years of experience. Contact our accident attorneys today at (623) 562-3838 to schedule your free consultation and learn more about seeking the fair compensation you deserve from a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
Note: As a result of the secondary sources that were used to complete this post, the information included within has not been independently verified by our own staff and may include misinformation. If you read something that, to your knowledge, is incorrect, please contact us as soon as possible and we will correct the inaccuracy.
Disclaimer: As members of the local Phoenix and broader Arizona community, we hope everyone in our community is safe and protected. We cover the events included in this blog as a way to offer support to the victims in similar circumstances and to provide relief during these difficult times. However, this information should not be misconstrued as legal advice, and you should speak with a trained legal professional for more information regarding your situation.
