UPDATE: Driver arrested after cyclist struck in Surrey hit-and-run

A cyclist is in hospital after being hit by an SUV that fled the scene in Surrey Monday afternoon.

It happened shortly before 3 p.m. near the 16000 block of 64th Avenue.

Police say the cyclist was traveling eastbound when he was struck from behind by the SUV and was knocked into the ditch.

The victim suffered serious injuries, including a dislocated hip and injuries to his legs and abdomen, and was rushed to Royal Columbian Hospital. Police say he expected to recover.

The driver fled the scene, but police say one witness noted the licence plate, while another followed the vehicle to a residence in Surrey. A major dent could be seen in the front of the vehicle.

Police were called to the residence where they arrested the driver. It’s believed alcohol was a factor.

Cpl. Bryan Fedirchuk of the Surrey RCMP traffic unit pointed out the driver in this case did not speed away from the scene, leading to a quick arrest.

That’s unusual compared to many other hit-and-runs where vehicles will take off at a high rate of speed.

Fedirchuk said police continue to look for ways to curb drinking and driving, but beyond putting the message out to the public, it’s easier said than done.

“I don’t know what it’s going to take to stop these people,” he said. “Our cyclist here could have life-altering injuries as a result of this, and that’s the case in a lot of these instances.

“I can plead with you, ‘Please don’t drink and drive,’ but I don’t know how to stop you. I can only stop you after.”