Free Consultation: (312) 924-7575
Abels & Annes, P.C. Personal Injury Blog

Man pleads to charges in fatal Phoenix bicycle accident after attempting to trade vehicle during Cash for Clunkers program

A man who tried to trade his vehicle in during the government’s “Cash for Clunkers” program to hide evidence of its involvement in a fatal Phoenix bicycle accident has pleaded guilty to multiple charges.

The Associated Press reports the defendant pleaded guilty to manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident and tampering with evidence. The charges stem from an Aug. 8 crash, which claimed the life of a 52-year-old cyclist who was riding with lights and reflectors.

The Phoenix New Times reported the 23-year-old defendant was driving a 1992 BMW when he struck the cyclist shortly after midnight on a Saturday night. The accident happened at the corner of Cave Creek Road and Mountain Gage Pass Road. The cyclist was killed and the defendant left the scene of the accident.

Police said a fog light from a silver 1992 BMW was found at the scene and investigators determined the car must have sustained significant damage to the passenger side. The defendant attempted to trade the car in the next morning to take advantage of the government’s Cash for Clunkers program; he told personnel at the dealership he had struck a javelina.

The dealership contacted police and the defendant was booked into the Maricopa County Jail and charged with leaving the scene of a fatal accident and tampering with evidence.

The Arizona Department of Transportation reports nearly 2,000 Arizona bicycle accidents occurred in 2008, injuring 1,682 riders and claiming 19 lives.

Client Reviews

★★★★★ I had no trouble reaching my attorney at any time. I was always updated on the case. I could text him, call him, or leave him a message and he would get back to me. Dave
★★★★★ After contacting several law firms, I sent an email to Dave [Abels] and he responded fairly quickly, asked me several questions, and took the case straight away. From there forward, it was simple and easy. Nik
★★★★★ These guys were great to work with. At the end of the day, tough case and all, Abels & Annes helped us get enough to pay our bills and then some. My wife has now recovered and we are able to move forward without the cloud of a huge medical debt. Brett
★★★★★ They were very detailed and communicated well. I felt very secure with professional looking out for my interests. They didn’t talk down to me and explained things in terms I understood. Robin
★★★★★ Everything was pretty smooth and there was a lot of communication between my attorney and myself. I am really happy with my settlement and I got more than what I expected. Arturo
★★★★★ I would give Abels & Annes an A+, a 10, they have far exceeded my expectations. Professional, direct, very educated and very honest. Molly
Read More Client Reviews