Driver Escapes Jail for Fatal Bike Accident in San Francisco

One of the most notable cyclist fatalities of 2023 was the death of Ethan Boyes. This cycling champion lost his life this past spring when he was struck by a senior driver. Now, the driver who caused his death is set to walk free with virtually zero consequences. This story is unfolding even as other cyclists lose their lives in San Francisco – including children. If you were injured in a San Francisco cycling accident, you may struggle to hold negligent drivers accountable in criminal courts. However, you can still push for penalties in civil court with help from an experienced bicycle accident lawyer in San Francisco. Speak with one of these legal professionals to determine whether a lawsuit might be possible. 

Driver Who Killed Cyclist Escapes Criminal Charges Despite Guilty Conviction 

Ethan Boyes lost his life last year when an intoxicated 82-year-old driver struck him. After less than a year, the senior driver has escaped incarceration – something that has drawn various reactions from different circles. The victim’s parents apparently lobbied to keep the senior driver out of jail, arguing that this is what the cycling champion would have wanted. 

On the other hand, the cyclist’s long-term romantic partner believes that the intoxicated driver should have been incarcerated. The judge who presided over this case seems to have agreed with this sentiment. This judge criticized the U.S. Attorney’s Office for offering the driver a plea deal, lowering the felony manslaughter charge to misdemeanor manslaughter. 

Judge Denato stated that the plea deal “sends a terrible message” to any future drunk drivers. She also argued that it reverses decades of efforts to discourage drunk driving, essentially assuring motorists that they will receive a light sentence for killing cyclists. 

The prosecutor eventually recommended a sentence of two years probation, while the maximum sentence for misdemeanor manslaughter was one year behind bars. In the end, Boyes’ closest loved ones could not agree on whether this was the best outcome. Various people claimed to know what he would have wanted, but it’s impossible to know for sure. 

After drinking at least two glasses of wine, the defendant struck a curb and overcorrected, bringing him into a bike lane and oncoming traffic. Investigators later determined that the defendant never applied the brake before striking the cyclist. First responders say they found the victim halfway in the defendant’s windshield, and he was pronounced dead soon afterward. 

11-Year-Old Scooter Rider Dies in San Jose

People continue to die in similar accidents throughout the Bay Area. In August of 2024, a 12-year-old boy riding a scooter was struck and killed in San Jose. Police say that the child was riding a non-electric scooter near a marked crosswalk at the time of the collision. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with police, and an investigation is ongoing. 

This incident highlights the consequences of lenient sentences for drivers who kill pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders. If drivers continuously get away with causing fatal accidents, then what message does that send? Will it make drivers more careful, or will it create a sense of apathy?

While some might instinctively push for lenient sentences, the truth is that incarceration sends a powerful message to the Bay Area community. When people see negligent drivers put behind bars, they may be very careful to avoid similar consequences in the future. 

Civil Consequences Can Send a Clear Message

While only criminal courts can send people to jail or prison, civil courts can also ensure consequences for negligent drivers. The penalties in civil courts are financial in nature, but they can send a clear message nonetheless. When people see drivers sued for millions of dollars after fatal accidents, they may realize just how bad the consequences of negligence can be. If you are ready to sue a driver for a fatal bicycle accident in the Bay Area, speak with a legal professional to learn more about your options. 

Find an Experienced Bike Accident Lawyer in San Francisco

If you have been searching for an experienced bicycle accident lawyer in San Francisco, look no further than Mary Alexander & Associates. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured plaintiffs throughout the Bay Area, including those who have been harmed in bike accidents. We know how frustrating it is for negligent drivers to walk free after causing serious harm. With our help, you can pursue justice, compensation, and closure. A personal injury lawsuit may help you cover medical expenses, missed wages, and emotional distress. Reach out today to learn more.