My only hope...

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Date: 05 Nov 2006 15:06:41
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: My only hope...

...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
acceptable behavior.

I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
left wrist may need surgery.

\\paul
--
Paul M. Hobson
Georgia Institute of Technology
.:change the f to ph to reply:.

Date: 13 Nov 2006 22:57:12
From: Ravi
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> acceptable behavior.

sorry for the delayed reply - just couldn't believe this guy would just
walk away with it - that too in front of his kids. I see in your threads
you do not have much interest in pursuing for monetary benefit... but
ask for a judgement that he serve X hours in social service or manning a
school crossing or something - that way he will know have a chance to
learn how it is out there....

> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
> left wrist may need surgery.
>

glad that you are ok. get well soon.

+ravi

> \\paul

Date: 08 Nov 2006 15:32:50
From: Dane Buson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Date: 07 Nov 2006 20:09:33
From: Bob
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Zoot Katz wrote:
> On 6 Nov 2006 18:22:32 -0800, "Johnny Sunset aka Tom Sherman"
> <sunsetss0003@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> >$100 for an ambulance ride? You got to be kidding!
> >
> >A five minute ambulance ride (at the insistence of my misguided
> >co-workers) cost over $400 and the five minute check-up by the doctor
> >at the emergency room (with no treatment) cost over $600.
>
> My ambulance ride took ~35 minutes after waiting about forty. I
> figure it saved me maybe two hours crawling to hospital where I spent
> the next 65 hrs.
>
> Two month later I got a bill from the ambulance service for $58 and
> change. That's all the ordeal cost me and I get to keep the titanium
> tibia forever!
> --
> zk

Titanium, huh? Closet weight weenie. ;-)

Regards,
Bob Hunt

Date: 07 Nov 2006 20:05:40
From: Bob
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Pat Lamb wrote:
> Bob wrote:
> > Personally, I wouldn't be too quick to hire an attorney and file a
> > civil suit. If you appear in court to testify against him when the
> > criminal case is up the judge can order restitution. Many judges do
> > just that as a matter of course. Talk to the prosecutor beforehand.
>
> Bob, is that the law in Georgia, or just in your state? If I understand
> correctly from the lawyers of my acquaintance, the norm here is to use
> the criminal conviction as prima facie evidence in a subsequent civil
> case for damages/restitution.
>

AFAIK every State allows judges to order convicted persons to make
restitution to their victims. That doesn't preclude an injured party
from filing a civil suit and yes, a conviction in a criminal trial is
often very persuasive evidence in a subsequent civil suit. There's a
difference though between restitution and "damages". When people say
they are suing for "damages" they are usually asking for a punitive
award. In short, a criminal trial can result in restitution and a fine
payable to the court while a civil suit can result in restitution and a
punitive award payable to the injured party. It seemed pretty clear to
me that the OP wasn't interested in extracting a pound of flesh, just
in being made whole again. Restitution can do that so my advice remains
the same.

Regards,
Bob Hunt

Date: 09 Nov 2006 16:46:09
From: Solvang Cyclist
Subject: Re: My only hope...

"Bob" <hunrobe@aol.com > wrote in news:1162958740.351874.236580
@b28g2000cwb.googlegroups.com:

> When people say
> they are suing for "damages" they are usually asking for a punitive
> award.

Unfortunately, the "ambulance chaser" lawyers have made that a true
statement, but it wasn't always so. Until recently, punitive damages were
rare and only for the most egregious actions by the defendants. Otherwise,
"damages" intended to make the plaintiff "whole" again rather than to make
them (and more typically - their attorneys) rich.

Sadly, this is no longer the case, and every tort case is assumed to be a
lottery ticket that lines the pockets of the lawyers and costs the rest of
us in higher prices for the goods, services and insurance we all buy.

Cheers,
David

Date: 06 Nov 2006 19:37:14
From: Johnny Sunset aka Tom Sherman
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Zoot Katz wrote:
> On 6 Nov 2006 18:22:32 -0800, "Johnny Sunset aka Tom Sherman"
> <sunsetss0003@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> >$100 for an ambulance ride? You got to be kidding!
> >
> >A five minute ambulance ride (at the insistence of my misguided
> >co-workers) cost over $400 and the five minute check-up by the doctor
> >at the emergency room (with no treatment) cost over $600.
>
> My ambulance ride took ~35 minutes after waiting about forty. I
> figure it saved me maybe two hours crawling to hospital where I spent
> the next 65 hrs.
>
> Two month later I got a bill from the ambulance service for $58 and
> change. That's all the ordeal cost me and I get to keep the titanium
> tibia forever!

I paid the $1,000 deductible and my insurance covered the other $90 of
the bill. :(

--
Tom Sherman - Post Free or Die!

Date: 06 Nov 2006 18:22:32
From: Johnny Sunset aka Tom Sherman
Subject: Re: My only hope...

nash wrote:
> <<In any case, as I recall the total of the checks was less than $100, but
> that was fine with me. I wasn't looking to make money on the deal and
> there was NO chance I would have hired an ambulance chasing attorney so
> that the lawyer could line his pockets at everyone else's expense.
>
> Ahhh, but an ambulance ride could have cost you that much anyway....

$100 for an ambulance ride? You got to be kidding!

A five minute ambulance ride (at the insistence of my misguided
co-workers) cost over $400 and the five minute check-up by the doctor
at the emergency room (with no treatment) cost over $600.

--
Tom Sherman - Post Free or Die!

Date: 06 Nov 2006 18:44:03
From: Zoot Katz
Subject: Re: My only hope...

On 6 Nov 2006 18:22:32 -0800, "Johnny Sunset aka Tom Sherman"
<sunsetss0003@yahoo.com > wrote:

>$100 for an ambulance ride? You got to be kidding!
>
>A five minute ambulance ride (at the insistence of my misguided
>co-workers) cost over $400 and the five minute check-up by the doctor
>at the emergency room (with no treatment) cost over $600.

My ambulance ride took ~35 minutes after waiting about forty. I
figure it saved me maybe two hours crawling to hospital where I spent
the next 65 hrs.

Two month later I got a bill from the ambulance service for $58 and
change. That's all the ordeal cost me and I get to keep the titanium
tibia forever!
--
zk

Date: 07 Nov 2006 03:20:27
From: nash
Subject: Re: My only hope...

>
>>$100 for an ambulance ride? You got to be kidding!
>>
>>A five minute ambulance ride (at the insistence of my misguided
>>co-workers) cost over $400 and the five minute check-up by the doctor
>>at the emergency room (with no treatment) cost over $600.
>
> My ambulance ride took ~35 minutes after waiting about forty. I
> figure it saved me maybe two hours crawling to hospital where I spent
> the next 65 hrs.
>
> Two month later I got a bill from the ambulance service for $58 and
> change. That's all the ordeal cost me and I get to keep the titanium
> tibia forever!
> --
> zk

Ouch. And you still ride. Rave on.
If you had 100% medical it would have cost you Zilch but that is in Canada.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 19:37:10
From: Zoot Katz
Subject: Re: My only hope...

On Tue, 07 Nov 2006 03:20:27 GMT, "nash"
<bbeffk4knjcuzfa@jetable.org > wrote:

>Ouch. And you still ride. Rave on.
>If you had 100% medical it would have cost you Zilch but that is in Canada.

I do live in Beautiful BC.
That's the "user fee" associated with an ambulance ride.

Of course I ride. It's what cyclists do.
--
zk

Date: 07 Nov 2006 15:30:03
From: nash
Subject: Re: My only hope...

"Zoot Katz" <zootkatz@operamail.com > wrote in message
news:1mvvk2d0lvfqvc60gseudgh0ikeb41o0ti@4ax.com...
> On Tue, 07 Nov 2006 03:20:27 GMT, "nash"
> <bbeffk4knjcuzfa@jetable.org> wrote:
>
>>Ouch. And you still ride. Rave on.
>>If you had 100% medical it would have cost you Zilch but that is in
>>Canada.
>
> I do live in Beautiful BC.
> That's the "user fee" associated with an ambulance ride.
>
> Of course I ride. It's what cyclists do.
> --
> zk
My medical paid 40 of the 50 I was charged by the ambulance. I know you are
Canadian and my medical is only 80% while others may have more or less.
Depends on what your policy covers.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 16:31:55
From: landotter
Subject: Re: My only hope...

nash wrote:
> 80% of bike accidents happen when a car at an intersection carelessly turns
> infront of an oncoming cyclist.
> Let's try to be 200% cautious knowing that. I know it stinks.

I assume that cars are going to blow the intersection when I have the
right of way. In my neighborhood, they do, something like 10 percent of
the time. Just stare through ya, or don't even look, and blast through
at 30mph.

One of my least favorite situations are people that are blinking to
take a left turn in front of you. They're in a center lane and start
turning before you can get by. So you really can't tell if they're
gonna cut you off or not. So you slow down. They turn a little bit
more. You slow down some more. Finally they get pissed and cut you
off--on purpose. Jeez, you'll get there soon enough w/o the turn creep.

Date: 07 Nov 2006 09:01:53
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

landotter wrote:
> nash wrote:
>> 80% of bike accidents happen when a car at an intersection carelessly turns
>> infront of an oncoming cyclist.
>> Let's try to be 200% cautious knowing that. I know it stinks.
>
>
> I assume that cars are going to blow the intersection when I have the
> right of way. In my neighborhood, they do, something like 10 percent of
> the time. Just stare through ya, or don't even look, and blast through
> at 30mph.
>
> One of my least favorite situations are people that are blinking to
> take a left turn in front of you. They're in a center lane and start
> turning before you can get by. So you really can't tell if they're
> gonna cut you off or not. So you slow down. They turn a little bit
> more. You slow down some more. Finally they get pissed and cut you
> off--on purpose. Jeez, you'll get there soon enough w/o the turn creep.
>

I think that was my pretty much a watered-down version of my situation,
only I was going downhill and didn't seem him myself until late in the
game b/c of the SUV that was just in front of my in the other lane.

--
Paul M. Hobson
Georgia Institute of Technology
.:change the f to ph to reply:.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 20:35:54
From: Zoot Katz
Subject: Re: My only hope...

On 6 Nov 2006 16:31:55 -0800, "landotter" <landotter@gmail.com >
wrote:

>One of my least favorite situations are people that are blinking to
>take a left turn in front of you. They're in a center lane and start
>turning before you can get by. So you really can't tell if they're
>gonna cut you off or not. So you slow down. They turn a little bit
>more. You slow down some more. Finally they get pissed and cut you
>off--on purpose. Jeez, you'll get there soon enough w/o the turn creep.

In those situations I stand up figuring that it makes me more
visible, conveys that I'm definitely exercising my right of way, and
also suggests that I'm hurrying to "get out of their way".
In the mean time I've moved more to the left, if possible, while
checking for escape options should they decide to fukup.

One of my friends recently bounced off the hood and windshield of a
left-turnig turdpack. Screwed up her bike bad, wrist not so bad and
cell phone totally. At least the scud scum stopped but she was in
shock so didn't get the witnesses contact information too. I'm afraid
she'll be getting fuckt when it comes to recieving any compensation
for damages.
--
zk

Date: 06 Nov 2006 16:08:26
From: Tom Keats
Subject: Re: My only hope...

In article <eilg3g$jmg$1@news-int2.gatech.edu >,
Paul Hobson <fobson@gatech.edu > writes:
> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> ground, and then drive off)

Wow. Talk about adding insult to injury!

> don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> acceptable behavior.

To tell ya the truth, I don't really expect much better from car drivers.

> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
> left wrist may need surgery.

I'm sorry you had to endure such a bad experience.

I hope good stuff happens for you, to help make up for it.

Good thoughts & good wishes for you,
Tom

--
-- Nothing is safe from me.
Above address is just a spam midden.
I'm really at: tkeats [curlicue] vcn [point] bc [point] ca

Date: 06 Nov 2006 14:23:37
From: Buck
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:

> But I'm insured. Would I just ask for the co-pay?

Let your insurance carrier know that your injuries are due to a
collision with a motorist who is at fault. They will go after the other
carrier for their expenses. You will have to go after the copay
yourself.

-Buck

Date: 06 Nov 2006 14:35:52
From: catzz66
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Date: 06 Nov 2006 02:42:49
From: Luke
Subject: Re: My only hope...

In article <eilg3g$jmg$1@news-int2.gatech.edu >, Paul Hobson
<fobson@gatech.edu > wrote:

> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> acceptable behavior.
>
> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
> left wrist may need surgery.
>

Sorry to hear about your Bianchi; Paul, I seem to recall that you had a
vintage Bianchi painted blue and converted to a FG. Was that it?

Its heartening to hear that you're emerged from the incident with your
health relatively intact. I wish you a speedy recovery and the SOB a
stiff sentence.

Luke

Date: 06 Nov 2006 08:52:13
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Luke wrote:
> In article <eilg3g$jmg$1@news-int2.gatech.edu>, Paul Hobson
> <fobson@gatech.edu> wrote:
>
>> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
>> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
>> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
>> acceptable behavior.
>>
>> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
>> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
>> left wrist may need surgery.
>>
>
> Sorry to hear about your Bianchi; Paul, I seem to recall that you had a
> vintage Bianchi painted blue and converted to a FG. Was that it?

Yeah, this guy:
http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~gtg611a/pics/bianchi.jpg

RIP, old friend :(

> Its heartening to hear that you're emerged from the incident with your
> health relatively intact. I wish you a speedy recovery and the SOB a
> stiff sentence.
>
> Luke

--
Paul M. Hobson
Georgia Institute of Technology
.:change the f to ph to reply:.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 20:00:55
From: nash
Subject: Re: My only hope...

80% of bike accidents happen when a car at an intersection carelessly turns
infront of an oncoming cyclist.
Let's try to be 200% cautious knowing that. I know it stinks.
I find in Surrey, BC, culture has a lot to do with how beligerent a driver
is. In other words all my close encounters have been with know it all
foreign cultures. I make them feel it back through ICBC and local Police
reporting. Makes me feel a little less helpless.
You can probably blame lawlessness in BC too.

IMHO
regards

Date: 06 Nov 2006 03:48:01
From: Stephen Dimmick
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson <fobson@gatech.edu > wrote:
> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> acceptable behavior.
>
> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
> left wrist may need surgery.

I'm really sorry to hear that, Paul. Last night a guy who used to work
at Intown Bikes stumbled into my house on crutches. He was hit at the
intersection of 10th & Techwood, and said the steel frame he was riding
at the time was bent into a pretzel-like mess. Lucky for him, though,
the girl who hit him felt downright awful about the accident and drove
him to the hospital, paid all medical expenses, and offered to buy him a
new bike.

A couple of years ago, a fellow who lives down the street found himself
in a situation similar to the one you've described - he was hit head-on
by a diesel-guzzling monstrousity of a truck whose driver fled the
scene. Unfortunately, he suffered permanent head injuries. Fortunately,
the police quickly found the driver who ended up settling for a
/very, very large/ sum of money (for whatever that is worth, in exchange
for having to live with brain damage).

As others have said, it sounds like you have a completely black and
white case on your hands! It's also great to hear you weren't
seriously injured. Hope the wrist heals quickly and you find yourself on
a hot new set of wheels at the expense of this jerk.

--
stephen dimmick :: sdimmick@cc.gatech.edu

Date: 09 Nov 2006 22:23:32
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Stephen Dimmick wrote:
> Paul Hobson <fobson@gatech.edu> wrote:
>> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
>> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
>> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
>> acceptable behavior.
>>
>> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
>> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
>> left wrist may need surgery.
>
> I'm really sorry to hear that, Paul. Last night a guy who used to work
> at Intown Bikes stumbled into my house on crutches. He was hit at the
> intersection of 10th & Techwood, and said the steel frame he was riding
> at the time was bent into a pretzel-like mess. Lucky for him, though,
> the girl who hit him felt downright awful about the accident and drove
> him to the hospital, paid all medical expenses, and offered to buy him a
> new bike.

Yeah. I took my wheels in to have Intown true them up and make sure
that they actually did survive the wreck. Mike mentioned him.

What sucks is that I was starting to think that Atlanta had gotten a lot
better for cycling the past year with the huge increase in its
popularity. I think that's still true in the sense that there's less
open hostility.

be safe
\\paul
--
Paul M. Hobson
Georgia Institute of Technology
.:change the f to ph to reply:.

Date: 05 Nov 2006 18:51:41
From: Bob
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> acceptable behavior.
>
> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
> left wrist may need surgery.

Best wishes for a rapid and complete recovery. Further downthread you
say there were 20 or so witnesses and a videotape. I hope the witnesses
all gave their identifiers/locators to the responding police and that
you have that videotape. I also hope that whatever officer grabs the
driver realizes that there are two (or more) other witnesses that need
to be interviewed- the kids. I've never found anything that guarantees
a full and complete confession quite as rapidly as an accused's own
children saying, "Daddy did it.".
Personally, I wouldn't be too quick to hire an attorney and file a
civil suit. If you appear in court to testify against him when the
criminal case is up the judge can order restitution. Many judges do
just that as a matter of course. Talk to the prosecutor beforehand.

Regards,
Bob Hunt

P.S.- Also downthread you wonder what, "we're looking for him", means.
Usually it means the police have already checked his residence but he
wasn't there. He'll likely be arrested at his home or job in the very
near future. Just FYI.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 10:11:12
From: Pat Lamb
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Bob wrote:
> Personally, I wouldn't be too quick to hire an attorney and file a
> civil suit. If you appear in court to testify against him when the
> criminal case is up the judge can order restitution. Many judges do
> just that as a matter of course. Talk to the prosecutor beforehand.

Bob, is that the law in Georgia, or just in your state? If I understand
correctly from the lawyers of my acquaintance, the norm here is to use
the criminal conviction as prima facie evidence in a subsequent civil
case for damages/restitution.

Pat

Date: 06 Nov 2006 11:27:47
From: Solvang Cyclist
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Pat Lamb <pdl678NOSPAM@comcast.net > wrote in
news:4r9550Fpsva0U2@individual.net:

> Bob, is that the law in Georgia, or just in your state? If I
> understand correctly from the lawyers of my acquaintance, the norm
> here is to use the criminal conviction as prima facie evidence in a
> subsequent civil case for damages/restitution.
>
>

I was hit by a drunk driver in California a number of years back. I
received a few VERY small checks from the county - referencing the guy's
name - about a year after the event (it was not an accident since he was
drunk at 11:00AM on a Sunday morning.) I assume the court ordered the
restitution be paid since I never asked for it (nor did I have to appear
at his trial - I suppose he plead guilty.)

In any case, as I recall the total of the checks was less than $100, but
that was fine with me. I wasn't looking to make money on the deal and
there was NO chance I would have hired an ambulance chasing attorney so
that the lawyer could line his pockets at everyone else's expense.

Cheers,
David

Date: 06 Nov 2006 20:06:53
From: nash
Subject: Re: My only hope...

<<In any case, as I recall the total of the checks was less than $100, but
that was fine with me. I wasn't looking to make money on the deal and
there was NO chance I would have hired an ambulance chasing attorney so
that the lawyer could line his pockets at everyone else's expense.

Ahhh, but an ambulance ride could have cost you that much anyway. ie you
get $0.00
Really taught him a lesson didn't they.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 19:11:41
From: Solvang Cyclist
Subject: Re: My only hope...

"nash" <bbeffk4knjcuzfa@jetable.org > wrote in
news:xBM3h.266532$5R2.152061@pd7urf3no:

> Ahhh, but an ambulance ride could have cost you that much anyway. ie
> you get $0.00
> Really taught him a lesson didn't they.
>

Well the combination of his minimal insurance and my "uninsured motorist"
insurance covered me. I wasn't looking to make any money and I wsa very
happy that no lawyers made any off of my misfortune.

It was my understanding that he spent a few months in jail since it was a
2nd (or 3rd?) offense DUI. That was enough for me.

Cheers,
David

Date: 05 Nov 2006 16:58:17
From: landotter
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> landotter wrote:
> > Paul Hobson wrote:
> >>> Paul Hobson wrote:
> >>>> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> >>>> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> >>>> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> >>>> acceptable behavior.
> >> Bill Sornson wrote:
> >>> Any witnesses? Police report? Description of vehicle and driver even if no
> >>> license plate number?
> >>
> >> Witnesses? About 20. I got up off of the ground and read his license
> >> out loud to him before all the other folks grabbed me and made me get
> >> back on the ground. A man in a car across the street actually *filmed*
> >> his car as he drove off (talk about lucky for me). When the police
> >> arrived they ran the tag and it matched all of the witness descriptions.
> >> They say that they're looking for him. I don't really know what that
> >> means though.
> >>
> >>>> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is
> >>>> fine. I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks
> >>>> like my left wrist may need surgery.
> >>> Totally sucks; sorry you got hit (and glad it wasn't worse)...
> >> Thanks, Bill. I'm thankful for that and also glad that the witnesses
> >> saw that I was going through a perfectly green light and he (going the
> >> opposite direction) failed to yield to me. I had ridden only one mile
> >> before this happened.
> >>
> >> \\paul
> >
> > Get a lawyer and sue the shit out of him. If it had been a simple
> > accident, a "Oh, sh*t, the sun got in my eye, are you OK?!" kind of
> > thing, then of course not. This man sounds like a shitheel of grand
> > proportions. An example needs to be set. Hopefully he'll spend some
> > time in jail. There's the accident, braking the traffic laws, assault,
> > property damage, leaving the scene of an accident, and even failing to
> > provide aide if Georgia has "good saitan" laws.
> >
> > It's such a cut and dry case, that if it got them some newspaper time,
> > a lot of young lawyers might do this one pro bono for ya.
> >
> > Make him hurt.
> >
>
> I understand your sentiment. But all I really want is 1) the frame
> replaced and 2) that he and _his children_ learn that it's not ok to do
> that. I'd rather not get into here, but I'm just not the type to sue
> someone for everything he's worth.

I'm not either. But suing for a new bike, medical bills, and $10K for
you to spend while you heal is fair enough. He needs to feel a
significant burn. Sell his car to collect the cash if need be.
>
> He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to get
> his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.
>

That's why you sue for property damage, medical bills, missed
work/school, and a few extra pennies to make 'em think twice.

There's a time and a place to hire a lawyer, this is one of them. I
hate dealing with them, had to hire one last year. Litigation makes me
wanna vomit, but sometimes you gotta. It's not like you just spilled
some McD's coffee on your groin and found it too hot, this is the real
deal.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 03:22:09
From: Luke
Subject: Re: My only hope...

In article <1162774697.137657.90080@b28g2000cwb.googlegroups.com >,
landotter <landotter@gmail.com > wrote:

> > I understand your sentiment. But all I really want is 1) the frame
> > replaced and 2) that he and _his children_ learn that it's not ok to do
> > that. I'd rather not get into here, but I'm just not the type to sue
> > someone for everything he's worth.

Excuse the impudence in discussing here what you'd rather not: Paul I
urge you to reconsider what you deem to be fair restitution. The
material loss of the bike is easily and immediately quantifiable; the
full extent of your injuries much less so -- in the years to come they
may limit your participation in activities that you now take for
granted, detracting from your quality and enjoyment of life.

Pursuing redress need not be synonymous with suing 'someone for
everything he's worth'.

>
> I'm not either. But suing for a new bike, medical bills, and $10K for
> you to spend while you heal is fair enough. He needs to feel a
> significant burn. Sell his car to collect the cash if need be.
> >
> > He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to get
> > his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.
> >

I echo Ozark's comment. Whatever the motorists culpability for the
accident, it pales in comparison to his response afterwards. I'd wager
that if he emerges from this incident without paying a significant
price, legally or monetarily, he'd continue on his merry way again
should he unwittingly mow down some unfortunate in the future.

Consider this criminal paying an appropriate price for his crime, be it
at your attorney's or the court's bidding, as a step toward ensuring
that your present ordeal is not needlessly inflicted upon another.

Luke

Date: 06 Nov 2006 13:13:18
From: brink
Subject: Re: My only hope...

"Luke" <lucasiragusa@rogers.com > wrote in message
news:061120060322099826%lucasiragusa@rogers.com...
> In article <1162774697.137657.90080@b28g2000cwb.googlegroups.com>,
> landotter <landotter@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> > I understand your sentiment. But all I really want is 1) the frame
>> > replaced and 2) that he and _his children_ learn that it's not ok to do
>> > that. I'd rather not get into here, but I'm just not the type to sue
>> > someone for everything he's worth.
>
> Excuse the impudence in discussing here what you'd rather not: Paul I
> urge you to reconsider what you deem to be fair restitution. The
> material loss of the bike is easily and immediately quantifiable; the
> full extent of your injuries much less so -- in the years to come they
> may limit your participation in activities that you now take for
> granted, detracting from your quality and enjoyment of life.
>
> Pursuing redress need not be synonymous with suing 'someone for
> everything he's worth'.
>
>
>>
>> I'm not either. But suing for a new bike, medical bills, and $10K for
>> you to spend while you heal is fair enough. He needs to feel a
>> significant burn. Sell his car to collect the cash if need be.
>> >
>> > He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to
>> > get
>> > his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.
>> >
>
> I echo Ozark's comment. Whatever the motorists culpability for the
> accident, it pales in comparison to his response afterwards. I'd wager
> that if he emerges from this incident without paying a significant
> price, legally or monetarily, he'd continue on his merry way again
> should he unwittingly mow down some unfortunate in the future.
>
> Consider this criminal paying an appropriate price for his crime, be it
> at your attorney's or the court's bidding, as a step toward ensuring
> that your present ordeal is not needlessly inflicted upon another.

FWIW, I agree completely. That's part of justice -- when applied properly,
it helps protect people from future incidents and problems.

brink

Date: 06 Nov 2006 21:03:37
From: nash
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Yeah, his next target could be your grandmother or your grandkids.

It is only going to get worse with time and population growth.
Killing people will mean nothing to these people. What is next?

Hope you feel better soon big guy.

Date: 05 Nov 2006 15:59:27
From: Ozark Bicycle
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> landotter wrote:
> > Paul Hobson wrote:
> >>> Paul Hobson wrote:
> >>>> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> >>>> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> >>>> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> >>>> acceptable behavior.
> >> Bill Sornson wrote:
> >>> Any witnesses? Police report? Description of vehicle and driver even if no
> >>> license plate number?
> >>
> >> Witnesses? About 20. I got up off of the ground and read his license
> >> out loud to him before all the other folks grabbed me and made me get
> >> back on the ground. A man in a car across the street actually *filmed*
> >> his car as he drove off (talk about lucky for me). When the police
> >> arrived they ran the tag and it matched all of the witness descriptions.
> >> They say that they're looking for him. I don't really know what that
> >> means though.
> >>
> >>>> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is
> >>>> fine. I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks
> >>>> like my left wrist may need surgery.
> >>> Totally sucks; sorry you got hit (and glad it wasn't worse)...
> >> Thanks, Bill. I'm thankful for that and also glad that the witnesses
> >> saw that I was going through a perfectly green light and he (going the
> >> opposite direction) failed to yield to me. I had ridden only one mile
> >> before this happened.
> >>
> >> \\paul
> >
> > Get a lawyer and sue the shit out of him. If it had been a simple
> > accident, a "Oh, sh*t, the sun got in my eye, are you OK?!" kind of
> > thing, then of course not. This man sounds like a shitheel of grand
> > proportions. An example needs to be set. Hopefully he'll spend some
> > time in jail. There's the accident, braking the traffic laws, assault,
> > property damage, leaving the scene of an accident, and even failing to
> > provide aide if Georgia has "good saitan" laws.
> >
> > It's such a cut and dry case, that if it got them some newspaper time,
> > a lot of young lawyers might do this one pro bono for ya.
> >
> > Make him hurt.
> >
>
> I understand your sentiment. But all I really want is 1) the frame
> replaced and 2) that he and _his children_ learn that it's not ok to do
> that. I'd rather not get into here, but I'm just not the type to sue
> someone for everything he's worth.
>
> He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to get
> his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.
>

Agreed, leaving the scene was the really bad part; the part that
*isn't* an "accident".

Date: 05 Nov 2006 15:16:20
From: Ted
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Good luck on your recovery. I hope you are right handed.

Ted.

Date: 05 Nov 2006 19:08:54
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Ted wrote:
> Good luck on your recovery. I hope you are right handed.

I am, but I definitely need both of my hands for the lab tests that I'm
running.

Ted, Claire, Ken: thank you very much for you sentiments.
\\paul
--
Paul M. Hobson
Georgia Institute of Technology
.:change the f to ph to reply:.

Date: 05 Nov 2006 14:20:22
From: Ozark Bicycle
Subject: Re: My only hope...

landotter wrote:
> Paul Hobson wrote:
> > > Paul Hobson wrote:
> > >> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> > >> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> > >> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> > >> acceptable behavior.
> >
> > Bill Sornson wrote:
> > > Any witnesses? Police report? Description of vehicle and driver even if no
> > > license plate number?
> >
> >
> > Witnesses? About 20. I got up off of the ground and read his license
> > out loud to him before all the other folks grabbed me and made me get
> > back on the ground. A man in a car across the street actually *filmed*
> > his car as he drove off (talk about lucky for me). When the police
> > arrived they ran the tag and it matched all of the witness descriptions.
> > They say that they're looking for him. I don't really know what that
> > means though.
> >
> > >> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is
> > >> fine. I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks
> > >> like my left wrist may need surgery.
> > >
> > > Totally sucks; sorry you got hit (and glad it wasn't worse)...
> >
> > Thanks, Bill. I'm thankful for that and also glad that the witnesses
> > saw that I was going through a perfectly green light and he (going the
> > opposite direction) failed to yield to me. I had ridden only one mile
> > before this happened.
> >
> > \\paul
>
> Get a lawyer and sue the shit out of him. If it had been a simple
> accident, a "Oh, sh*t, the sun got in my eye, are you OK?!" kind of
> thing, then of course not. This man sounds like a shitheel of grand
> proportions. An example needs to be set. Hopefully he'll spend some
> time in jail. There's the accident, braking the traffic laws, assault,
> property damage, leaving the scene of an accident, and even failing to
> provide aide if Georgia has "good saitan" laws.
>

Makes you wonder if something else was going on, as well. Alcohol?
Drugs? No license? No insurance? An illegal (and I'm not singling out
illegals, just suggesting it might make the guy flee the scene)?

Hitting Paul is one thing, leaving the scene is quite another. I do
hope they track him down; a stretch in the slammer is in order.

> It's such a cut and dry case, that if it got them some newspaper time,
> a lot of young lawyers might do this one pro bono for ya.
>
> Make him hurt.

Date: 05 Nov 2006 13:40:44
From: landotter
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> > Paul Hobson wrote:
> >> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> >> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> >> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> >> acceptable behavior.
>
> Bill Sornson wrote:
> > Any witnesses? Police report? Description of vehicle and driver even if no
> > license plate number?
>
>
> Witnesses? About 20. I got up off of the ground and read his license
> out loud to him before all the other folks grabbed me and made me get
> back on the ground. A man in a car across the street actually *filmed*
> his car as he drove off (talk about lucky for me). When the police
> arrived they ran the tag and it matched all of the witness descriptions.
> They say that they're looking for him. I don't really know what that
> means though.
>
> >> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is
> >> fine. I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks
> >> like my left wrist may need surgery.
> >
> > Totally sucks; sorry you got hit (and glad it wasn't worse)...
>
> Thanks, Bill. I'm thankful for that and also glad that the witnesses
> saw that I was going through a perfectly green light and he (going the
> opposite direction) failed to yield to me. I had ridden only one mile
> before this happened.
>
> \\paul

Get a lawyer and sue the shit out of him. If it had been a simple
accident, a "Oh, sh*t, the sun got in my eye, are you OK?!" kind of
thing, then of course not. This man sounds like a shitheel of grand
proportions. An example needs to be set. Hopefully he'll spend some
time in jail. There's the accident, braking the traffic laws, assault,
property damage, leaving the scene of an accident, and even failing to
provide aide if Georgia has "good saitan" laws.

It's such a cut and dry case, that if it got them some newspaper time,
a lot of young lawyers might do this one pro bono for ya.

Make him hurt.

Date: 05 Nov 2006 18:46:47
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

landotter wrote:
> Paul Hobson wrote:
>>> Paul Hobson wrote:
>>>> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
>>>> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
>>>> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
>>>> acceptable behavior.
>> Bill Sornson wrote:
>>> Any witnesses? Police report? Description of vehicle and driver even if no
>>> license plate number?
>>
>> Witnesses? About 20. I got up off of the ground and read his license
>> out loud to him before all the other folks grabbed me and made me get
>> back on the ground. A man in a car across the street actually *filmed*
>> his car as he drove off (talk about lucky for me). When the police
>> arrived they ran the tag and it matched all of the witness descriptions.
>> They say that they're looking for him. I don't really know what that
>> means though.
>>
>>>> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is
>>>> fine. I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks
>>>> like my left wrist may need surgery.
>>> Totally sucks; sorry you got hit (and glad it wasn't worse)...
>> Thanks, Bill. I'm thankful for that and also glad that the witnesses
>> saw that I was going through a perfectly green light and he (going the
>> opposite direction) failed to yield to me. I had ridden only one mile
>> before this happened.
>>
>> \\paul
>
> Get a lawyer and sue the shit out of him. If it had been a simple
> accident, a "Oh, sh*t, the sun got in my eye, are you OK?!" kind of
> thing, then of course not. This man sounds like a shitheel of grand
> proportions. An example needs to be set. Hopefully he'll spend some
> time in jail. There's the accident, braking the traffic laws, assault,
> property damage, leaving the scene of an accident, and even failing to
> provide aide if Georgia has "good saitan" laws.
>
> It's such a cut and dry case, that if it got them some newspaper time,
> a lot of young lawyers might do this one pro bono for ya.
>
> Make him hurt.
>

I understand your sentiment. But all I really want is 1) the frame
replaced and 2) that he and _his children_ learn that it's not ok to do
that. I'd rather not get into here, but I'm just not the type to sue
someone for everything he's worth.

He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to get
his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.

--
Paul M. Hobson
Georgia Institute of Technology
.:change the f to ph to reply:.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 10:07:10
From: Pat Lamb
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> landotter wrote:
>> Get a lawyer and sue the shit out of him. If it had been a simple
>> accident, a "Oh, sh*t, the sun got in my eye, are you OK?!" kind of
>> thing, then of course not. This man sounds like a shitheel of grand
>> proportions. An example needs to be set. Hopefully he'll spend some
>> time in jail. There's the accident, braking the traffic laws, assault,
>> property damage, leaving the scene of an accident, and even failing to
>> provide aide if Georgia has "good saitan" laws.
...
>> Make him hurt.
>
> I understand your sentiment. But all I really want is 1) the frame
> replaced and 2) that he and _his children_ learn that it's not ok to do
> that. I'd rather not get into here, but I'm just not the type to sue
> someone for everything he's worth.
>
> He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to get
> his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.

It's more than an accident, at least after he left the scene. It's a
crime, a matter of justice, and a matter of public safety. Of course,
we're dependent on the police and DA to make sure an example is made of
him to deter anyone else from trying this stunt on the rest of us.

After the world is made safe for cyclists, we get to compensating you.
As far as what you want, I'd guess you really want him (or his insurance
company) to also pay for your medical treatments. And don't be too
hasty to dismiss compensation for pain and suffering. When I was hit, I
pushed the insurance adjuster DOWN below the minimum she was offering,
on similar grounds (money can't make it better, so why should I take the
money?). Some months later, working on rehab, I came to the conclusion
that the high end the adjuster was offering would just about pay for the
time I spent working out that shoulder, at my going pay rate. That's no
money for pain or suffering, and payment for my time at 1/5 what I get
paid at work. I should have taken the new bike!

What's the pay scale for RA/TA in your graduate studies? How much time
are you going to waste getting better? How much extra money will it
cost you to take public transportation for the next 2-3 months? How
much time are you going to lose because you can't do your research
because this jerk hit you, and how much do you expect to get paid when
you graduate? I'm not a lawyer, but these costs are losses inflicted on
you, and it's completely reasonable for you to be compensated for them.

So help the criminal justice system nail the bastard, keep good records
of your costs and time lost, and recover them. If he loses his shirt
(or pants), well, that's his problem.

Pat

Date: 06 Nov 2006 16:12:26
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Pat Lamb wrote:
> Paul Hobson wrote:
>> landotter wrote:
>>> Get a lawyer and sue the shit out of him. If it had been a simple
>>> accident, a "Oh, sh*t, the sun got in my eye, are you OK?!" kind of
>>> thing, then of course not. This man sounds like a shitheel of grand
>>> proportions. An example needs to be set. Hopefully he'll spend some
>>> time in jail. There's the accident, braking the traffic laws, assault,
>>> property damage, leaving the scene of an accident, and even failing to
>>> provide aide if Georgia has "good saitan" laws.
> ...
>>> Make him hurt.
>> I understand your sentiment. But all I really want is 1) the frame
>> replaced and 2) that he and _his children_ learn that it's not ok to do
>> that. I'd rather not get into here, but I'm just not the type to sue
>> someone for everything he's worth.
>>
>> He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to get
>> his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.
>
> It's more than an accident, at least after he left the scene. It's a
> crime, a matter of justice, and a matter of public safety. Of course,
> we're dependent on the police and DA to make sure an example is made of
> him to deter anyone else from trying this stunt on the rest of us.

Agreed. Several people seem to be assuming that the APD is actively
looking for him. My optimistic belief is that if ever gets pulled over
again, this might pop up. I really think (like the others I know who've
been hit) that I'm SOL.

> After the world is made safe for cyclists, we get to compensating you.
> As far as what you want, I'd guess you really want him (or his insurance
> company) to also pay for your medical treatments.

But I'm insured. Would I just ask for the co-pay?

> And don't be too
> hasty to dismiss compensation for pain and suffering. When I was hit, I
> pushed the insurance adjuster DOWN below the minimum she was offering,
> on similar grounds (money can't make it better, so why should I take the
> money?). Some months later, working on rehab, I came to the conclusion
> that the high end the adjuster was offering would just about pay for the
> time I spent working out that shoulder, at my going pay rate. That's no
> money for pain or suffering, and payment for my time at 1/5 what I get
> paid at work. I should have taken the new bike!

very good point.

> What's the pay scale for RA/TA in your graduate studies?

Not to brag <g > but I get 750 USD per month from each of my
assistantships (one RA, one TA).

> How much time
> are you going to waste getting better?

No clue :(

> How much extra money will it
> cost you to take public transportation for the next 2-3 months?

$40/month + 1 to 1.5 extra hours per day (TA's slow when you work my
hours: 8am - Midnight)

> How
> much time are you going to lose because you can't do your research
> because this jerk hit you, and how much do you expect to get paid when
> you graduate?

I've back in the lab twice since I was hit Saturday. I'm definitely
slower. But that doesn't affect my pay, just my time.

> I'm not a lawyer, but these costs are losses inflicted on
> you, and it's completely reasonable for you to be compensated for them.
>
> So help the criminal justice system nail the bastard, keep good records
> of your costs and time lost, and recover them. If he loses his shirt
> (or pants), well, that's his problem.

Maybe, but I don't want him and his kids to be better when some punk kid
on a bike sends their dad into financial ruin. I don't think it will
happen judging by the make/model of the SUV that hit me, but...um, yeah.

Everyone: I do appreciate the input.

--
Paul M. Hobson
Georgia Institute of Technology
.:change the f to ph to reply:.

Date: 06 Nov 2006 16:15:10
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> Pat Lamb wrote:
>
>> How much time
>> are you going to waste getting better?
>
> No clue :(

Forgot to add: How much time would I be wasting with a civil lawsuit.
The hassle/headache of all that just doesn't seem worth it.
\\paul

Date: 05 Nov 2006 18:37:20
From: Zoot Katz
Subject: Re: My only hope...

On Sun, 05 Nov 2006 18:46:47 -0500, Paul Hobson <fobson@gatech.edu >
wrote:

>He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to get
>his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.

My hope is that his kids turn him in.
. . . and that you get satisfactory restitution.

Don't be anxious to "get it over with". Make certain your wrist is
going to be 100%. You're young, you'll heal well but don't rush it.
I'm not saying milk it. I think lawyers retard healing. It seems
that uncompensated injuries tend to heal faster. I'm thankful that
you have witnesses and weren't more severely injured.

Do the exercises and therapies. You don't want a gimpy hand later.

Sorry to hear about the bike.
--
zk

Date: 05 Nov 2006 21:07:49
From: Rich Clark
Subject: Re: My only hope...

"Paul Hobson" <fobson@gatech.edu > wrote in message
news:eilt05$hrj$1@news-int.gatech.edu...
> I understand your sentiment. But all I really want is 1) the frame
> replaced and 2) that he and _his children_ learn that it's not ok to do
> that. I'd rather not get into here, but I'm just not the type to sue
> someone for everything he's worth.
>
> He made a mistake and hit me. Accidents happen. I just want him to get
> his due for taking off and setting such a horrible example.

Not wanting to carve off a pound of flesh is admirable.

But the only way to achieve the goal you have set is to pursue this through
the courts, because the legal system is the mechanism by which our society
communicates messages like "it's not ok to do that," and "you're setting a
horrible example for your children, " and "kids, don't emulate your
sociopath father."

The law is the only viable messenger in this case.

Good luck.

RichC

Date: 06 Nov 2006 20:03:24
From: nash
Subject: Re: My only hope...

<<The law is the only viable messenger in this case

Not to mention it will help all of us.
lest we forget

Date: 05 Nov 2006 16:17:15
From: Ken C. M.
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> acceptable behavior.
>
Well you know what they say: You learn most of your behaviors from your
parents. So I don't hold much hope for those children. Maybe I am wrong.

> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my
> left wrist may need surgery.
>
> \\paul

Glad it wasn't worse. Sorry about your ride. And hopefully the wrist
isn't too bad to keep from riding again.

Ken
--
The bicycle is just as good company as most husbands and, when it gets
old and shabby, a woman can dispose of it and get a new one without
shocking the entire community. ~Ann Strong

Date: 05 Nov 2006 20:26:02
From: Claire Petersky
Subject: Re: My only hope...

"Paul Hobson" <fobson@gatech.edu > wrote in message
news:eilg3g$jmg$1@news-int2.gatech.edu...
> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw him
> hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the ground, and
> then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is acceptable
> behavior.
>
> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is fine.
> I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks like my left
> wrist may need surgery.

I'm sorry sorry to hear of this collision. That's awful.

--
Warm Regards,

Claire Petersky
http://www.bicyclemeditations.org/
See the books I've set free at: http://bookcrossing.com/referral/Cpetersky

Date: 05 Nov 2006 20:16:33
From: Bill Sornson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
> acceptable behavior.

Any witnesses? Police report? Description of vehicle and driver even if no
license plate number?

> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is
> fine. I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks
> like my left wrist may need surgery.

Totally sucks; sorry you got hit (and glad it wasn't worse)...

Bill S.

Date: 05 Nov 2006 16:27:29
From: Paul Hobson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

> Paul Hobson wrote:
>> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they saw
>> him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on the
>> ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he did is
>> acceptable behavior.

Bill Sornson wrote:
> Any witnesses? Police report? Description of vehicle and driver even if no
> license plate number?

Witnesses? About 20. I got up off of the ground and read his license
out loud to him before all the other folks grabbed me and made me get
back on the ground. A man in a car across the street actually *filmed*
his car as he drove off (talk about lucky for me). When the police
arrived they ran the tag and it matched all of the witness descriptions.
They say that they're looking for him. I don't really know what that
means though.

>> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is
>> fine. I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks
>> like my left wrist may need surgery.
>
> Totally sucks; sorry you got hit (and glad it wasn't worse)...

Thanks, Bill. I'm thankful for that and also glad that the witnesses
saw that I was going through a perfectly green light and he (going the
opposite direction) failed to yield to me. I had ridden only one mile
before this happened.

\\paul

Date: 05 Nov 2006 23:01:18
From: Mike Kruger
Subject: Re: My only hope...

"Paul Hobson" <fobson@gatech.edu > wrote in message
news:eilkqv$lfu$1@news-int2.gatech.edu...
>
> Witnesses? About 20. I got up off of the ground and read his license out
> loud to him before all the other folks grabbed me and made me get back on
> the ground. A man in a car across the street actually *filmed* his car as
> he drove off (talk about lucky for me). When the police arrived they ran
> the tag and it matched all of the witness descriptions. They say that
> they're looking for him. I don't really know what that means though.

This is an amazing story. Good luck on your recovery. Nail his ***.

Date: 05 Nov 2006 22:17:02
From: Bill Sornson
Subject: Re: My only hope...

Paul Hobson wrote:
>> Paul Hobson wrote:
>>> ...is that the children who were riding with their dad (when they
>>> saw him hit me, get out to move my bike out of his way as I lay on
>>> the ground, and then drive off) don't grow up thinking that what he
>>> did is acceptable behavior.
>
> Bill Sornson wrote:
>> Any witnesses? Police report? Description of vehicle and driver
>> even if no license plate number?
>
>
> Witnesses? About 20. I got up off of the ground and read his license
> out loud to him before all the other folks grabbed me and made me get
> back on the ground. A man in a car across the street actually
> *filmed* his car as he drove off (talk about lucky for me). When the
> police arrived they ran the tag and it matched all of the witness
> descriptions. They say that they're looking for him. I don't
> really know what that means though.

Well, he really should be in jail by tonight. He'll probably cop to "I
panicked and just took off" and MAYBE get probation (with a suspended or
revoked license hopefully), but at the very least he should pay for your
surgery, pain and suffering, and a brand-new bike.

How about forcing him to speak at schools about safe riding around bad
drivers (he being a prime example)?!?

>>> I'm fine btw. My Bianchi frame is toast, but everything on it is
>>> fine. I'll be riding the train for a few months though as it looks
>>> like my left wrist may need surgery.
>>
>> Totally sucks; sorry you got hit (and glad it wasn't worse)...
>
> Thanks, Bill. I'm thankful for that and also glad that the witnesses
> saw that I was going through a perfectly green light and he (going the
> opposite direction) failed to yield to me. I had ridden only one mile
> before this happened.

Hope you recover fully, Paul. Good luck.

BS (no, really :) )