Electric carmaker Tesla Motors is in the news once again, for different reasons than usual. According to police reports, 73-year-old Crosby struck jogger Jose Jimenez, 46, in the Santa Ynez Valley, near Santa Barbara, California. Jimenez was “propelled” forward by the impact from Crosby’s Tesla, writes Ed Mazza for The Huffington Post.
Dangerous spot for drivers
The incident occurred when Crosby was traveling at the posted speed limit of 55 mph in his Tesla, according to California Highway Patrol spokesman Don Clotworthy. Jimenez suffered multiple injuries due to the high-speed collision, and was airlifted to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. He was treated for multiple fractures, abrasions and lacerations, but luckily his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
“Mr. Crosby was cooperative with authorities and he was not impaired or intoxicated in any way,” said Clotworthy. “Mr. Crosby did not see the jogger because of the sun.”
Local resident Pete Ganvini spoke out in support of Crosby, claiming that the sun is a common problem for motorists in the area where the accident took place. “If you don’t have sunglasses or a visor it is impossible to see what’s going on,” Ganvini said. “This is a dangerous area. It is just not a good spot to be jogging.”
Tesla-driving Crosby upset by collision
“David Crosby is obviously very upset that he accidentally hit anyone,” Crosby’s public relations manager Michael Jensen told USA Today. “And, based off of initial reports, he is relieved that the injuries to the gentleman were not life threatening. He wishes the jogger a very speedy recovery.” Crosby escaped unharmed from the crash.
Police reports state that Jimenez was jogging on the road, in the same direction as traffic, when he was hit by Crosby’s Tesla. It is usually recommended that pedestrians move facing traffic in areas where there is no sidewalk.
Crosby made his entrance into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame as a member of Crosby, Stills and Nash, as well as with The Byrds. His solo work is also highly acclaimed. The musician recently announced that he will be embarking on a solo acoustic tour, as well as touring Europe with Crosby, Stills & Nash later this year.
