Bike Rider Killed in Nags Head by Hit-and-Run Driver | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

Riding a bike on the Outer Banks of North Carolina is a relaxing activity enjoyed by many. When motorists fail to respect bicycle riders, however,  tragic consequences occur. Such was the case on August 21, 2011, in Kitty Hawk, NC, when a 21-year-old who was visiting from New York City was hit by a car on U.S. 158/S. Croatan Highway near Baymeadon Drive in Nags Head.

Our thoughts go out to the family of Rooha Sheikh, whose young life was cut short after she died from injuries caused by the car accident. The tragedy of the situation was compounded by the fact that the driver of the car fled the scene and has now been charged with driving while impaired and felony hit and run.

As an experienced North Carolina personal injury lawyer and father, I can only imagine the grief and rage the family feels right now. North Carolina wrongful death cases are always difficult, especially when the victim is young and the at-fault driver is so negligent. My law firm colleagues and I have handled many cases in which the burdened family did not want to go to court and speak of their loss any longer. We pursue these type of cases against the insurance company seeking settlements so the family does not have to go to court and relive the awful experience of losing their loved one.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation reports the number of bike crashes in the state to be approximately 1,000 a year, a number that includes police-reported crashes with motor vehicles. On average, around 20 people are killed, and an additional 60 are seriously injured. Children and young adults are the most frequent victims.

Bike accidents can usually be prevented if drivers are cautious and respectful to bicyclists and if riders wear appropriate safety clothing. However,  when a bike accident does occur and the bike rider is not at fault in any way — such as in this case — we recommend speaking with an experienced North Carolina personal injury attorney. 

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