Motorcycle officer hit by driver

HARLINGEN - A motorcycle police officer has been released from the hospital with minor scrapes and bruises after being struck by a vehicle, police officials said Wednesday.

Officer Larry Moore was released from Valley Baptist Medical Center-Harlingen Tuesday evening after treatment for minor injuries, police said.

Moore, who was on motorcycle patrol, was struck by a Chevrolet that failed to yield at a stop sign on West Lincoln Street, near the Wal-Mart store, police said.

"(Moore) was released at around 6:30 p.m.," Sgt. John Parish said. "I imagine he'll be back in a few days. There were no major injuries, just some bumps, bruises and soreness."

Moore's motorcycle also came through the mishap with minor damage, Parish said.

"It appears OK," he said. "Just a couple of minor scratches but nothing major. We were really lucky."

Moore's collision was not typical among Harlingen motorcycle officers, Parish said.

"I used to be the supervisor of that unit and this is the first (motorcycle police accident) I can remember," he said. "I'm sure there have been other minor things but I don't recall any others. I've been here almost 18 years."

According to a release from HPD, the driver of the Chevrolet was cited for failure to yield the right of way on a private drive, no driver's license in his possession and no proof of liability insurance.

Parrish said the Chevrolet was towed and impounded and will not be released until the owner shows proof of payment for six months of insurance.

The city's towing ordinance went into effect in June.