WESLACO – On Wednesday, an accident sent Jose Rodriguez to the hospital with minor injuries. The 45-year-old was hit by a distracted driver who fled the scene.

Bystanders and witnesses said the driver appeared to be texting and driving minutes before the crash.

Rodriguez said he tried avoiding the woman’s car when it swerved into his lane.

"Tried looking at her and letting her know not to be texting and driving while I was riding right next to her. The second time, she came close to me and hit me on my handlebars of the bike. I lost control and I hit the vehicle in front of me," said Rodriguez.

Weslaco Police Department Sgt. Bernie Garza said drivers overestimate their ability to multitask while at the wheel and fail to pay attention to detail.

"They’re not looking for the motorcyclist is what it is. We’re not hiding, we’re there, it just doesn't register to the normal person looking for traffic," he said. "When they're looking for traffic, they're looking for a vehicle, something on four wheels."

Garza said the driver could cost Rodriguez his life.

Police said the suspect is believed to have been driving a 2006 year model red Ford Focus. The vehicle should have right front-end damage.

If anyone knows who the driver is, call Weslaco Crime Stoppers at 956-968-8477.