On July 23, 2009, Taylor Tolleson, a 25-year-old pro-bicyclist, was hit from behind while riding his motorcycle on Highway 1 in Santa Cruz County, Calif.
Tolleson was allegedly hit by 25-year-old Thomas John Legan who was speeding in his father's car. Legan fled the scene after knocking Tolleson into the fast lane of the highway. Legan turned himself in to the California Highway Patrol at the end of July and was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run. He was never criminally charged in the case, though the CHP says it is reopening the investigation.
Tolleson was taken to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center in critical condition after the accident. He suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and a fractured L1 vertebra as a result of the collision. Though Tolleson is recovering a year later, he will never again compete as a pro-bicyclist and still suffers from pain due to the vertebra injury. Tolleson's brain injury may have a long term impact on him and his ability to live a normal life. He recently filed a civil suit against Legan and Legan's father, who was the registered owner of the car that hit him.
Tolleson has undergone operations as well as physical therapy and rehabilitation to help recover from his injuries. He is back to bicycling but is very limited in how long and how hard he can ride. Hunching over the handle bars causes him back pain. His traumatic brain injury still causes him to suffer from memory loss and mood swings and he says he has trouble focusing. Other symptoms of traumatic brain injuries include dizziness, headaches, confusion, blurred vision, fatigue and mood changes. Tolleson has lost income due to his injuries and will need medical care for the foreseeable future.
There is not much that can be done to reverse the brain damage; most TBI patients will receive treatment programs that include physical therapy, medicine, speech therapy, psychological counseling and some type of social support.
Seek Assistance to Protect your Rights
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run, like Tolleson, or have suffered serious injuries from another type of accident, it is important seek assistance to protect your rights. As a victim suffering serious injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for the losses you have incurred. The law firm of Corsiglia McMahon & Allard, LLP has extensive experience helping accident victims recover damages and reclaim their lives. A knowledgeable attorney at CMA can help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to and help you feel confident that you are pursuing your best legal options based on the circumstances of your case.
