Police recently arrested a man for hitting two cyclists riding along the side of the road. 23-year-old Michael James Saenz was witnessed to have struck the bicyclists while driving southbound on Van Winkle Expressway at 4500 South in Murray Utah at about 1:30 am. He acknowledges both hitting the riders and driving under the influence.
Saenz was taken into the Salt Lake County Jail on account of one third-degree felony: “DUI causing bodily injury”; and a class C misdemeanor: “operating a motor vehicle near a prohibited area,” in this case, the bicycle zone he moved into. His initial bail pending court proceedings was $810.
One victim was critically hurt with severe head injuries; the other was left in serious condition. Both were taken to Intermountain Medical Center. Some of the earlier reports believed the critically injured rider to be dead, but the afternoon police had not confirmed that information. Now both riders are stable physically, but still shaken by the event.
Michael Saenz was sentenced last week to a few years in prison, and pending restitution to be determined later, as he was taken from the court in handcuffs.
Driving under the influence is a serious legal offense. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a drunk driving accident, legal repercussions must take place. Call Utah Accident Lawyers at Christensen & Hymas to discuss your case. They are attorneys with the highest amount of integrity, who truly care about you and your family, and getting justice for all parties involved. Call now for a free case consultation: 801-506-0800.