Bicyclist Suffers Critical Injuries after Struck by Car in Santa Rosa, Driver Arrested on Drug Charges
SANTA ROSA, CA (May 23, 2023) – A woman was critically injured and Michael Steven Gutierrez was arrested in a bicycle crash in Santa Rosa late Thursday afternoon on May 18.
The crash happened around 5:07 p.m. in the area of Steele Lane and McBride Lane. According to the Santa Rosa Police Department, both the female bicyclist and Gutierrez who was driving a black Honda, were traveling westbound on Steele Lane. As they passed McBride Lane, the bicyclist appeared to swerve into the westbound lane of traffic.
The Honda then struck the bicycle, throwing the victim onto the ground.
First responders found the bicyclist unresponsive and rushed her to a local hospital with significant life-threatening injuries. The victim’s name is not being released at this time.
During the investigation, officers located drug paraphernalia in plain sight in the Honda. Based on this, a search of the vehicle was conducted to which several large bindles of suspected methamphetamine, a scale and more drug paraphernalia were found.
Officers determined that Gutierrez, a 65-year-old Santa Rosa resident, was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. But they placed him under arrest for possession of narcotics and possession of narcotics for sale.
The crash remains under investigation.
Being vigilant and paying attention to your surroundings while driving is the best way to avoid a traffic accident. Focus on the road and be sure to check both directions twice before crossing an intersection. Manage your speed and do not drive while under the influence.
If you have suffered injuries from a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, you can count on The Law Offices of Daniel Kim. We work hard day and night to ensure that injured victims receive the compensation they rightfully deserve. Our firm has won over two hundred million dollars for our clients in thousands of successful settlements. For a free consultation, please call us at (800) 895-7199. If you need a copy of the police report, our team can also help you get one.