Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
Learn your next steps here and get the maximum compensation with our step-by-step walkthrough
Your safety should be your top priority
If you are not too injured, take good pictures of the scene and some videos if you can
Ensure to collect at least the driver’s name, address, and date of birth alongside their license number and state
Call 911 immediately and contact the local police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
Reach out to your agent and/or your insurance company immediately
Contact your lawyer as soon as possible
Experienced bicycle accident lawyers can help you pursue the full compensation you are owed for your hospital bills, missed income, and other losses. It can be challenging to go toe-to-toe with large insurance companies and come away with fair settlements.
Cycling offers both convenience and freedom, particularly in a city with busy streets like San Bernardino. But when accidents happen, the consequences can be life-altering. With a growing number of riders sharing the road with fast-moving traffic, the risk of bicycle collisions remains a serious concern.
Local cyclists face daily dangers from speeding drivers, distracted motorists, and insufficient bike infrastructure. When crashes occur, the aftermath often includes not just physical injury but emotional trauma and financial hardship.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in San Bernardino, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, the legal process can be complex, especially when recovery and rehabilitation are already taking a toll.
This page will walk you through your legal options, explain what compensation may be available, and show how a San Bernardino bicycle accident attorney can help protect your rights every step of the way.
Understanding local trends in bicycle collisions can arm you with important context, showing where and how often accidents occur in San Bernardino, and who is most at risk on our streets. These numbers are more than just statistics. They represent neighbors, family members, and friendships forever changed.
Here are some key findings from recent years:
It’s equally important to understand why these accidents happen in the first place after seeing local crash statistics. In San Bernardino, bike crashes share many of the same root causes seen in other urban areas, but with local infrastructure and traffic patterns that can add unique risks for riders.
One of the biggest threats comes from drivers failing to yield when cyclists have the right of way. Busy intersections in San Bernardino are common sites of these crashes, as motorists often misjudge cyclists’ speed or fail to see them entirely. Even though state law treats bicycles as vehicles, drivers don’t always respect their right to the lane.
Texting behind the wheel, fumbling with GPS, or just not paying attention can have tragic results. For cyclists sharing tight lanes with cars, a momentary distraction is all it takes for a devastating collision. San Bernardino’s sprawling roads can encourage faster, less attentive driving, which compounds the danger.
High speeds are a recurring hazard on San Bernardino streets, giving drivers less time to react to cyclists and making impacts much more severe. Even slight increases in speed can dramatically increase injury severity in a collision.
Potholes, cracked pavement, and worn-out bike lanes force cyclists to swerve or brake suddenly. While drivers may hardly notice these flaws, for cyclists they can mean a serious crash. Cities like San Bernardino are working to improve infrastructure, but maintenance gaps remain.
San Bernardino’s long, busy corridors and inconsistent lighting can make nighttime rides especially risky. Without bright lights and reflective gear, cyclists may be nearly invisible to drivers – while drivers themselves sometimes fail to scan carefully in low-light conditions.
In downtown and older neighborhoods with street parking, “dooring” is a serious concern. When someone opens a car door without checking for approaching cyclists, the result is often an unavoidable crash. Riders often have no safe space to swerve, leading to severe injuries.
While San Bernardino doesn’t have separate local bike laws, riders here are fully covered under California’s statewide cycling regulations.
Bicycles are considered vehicles under California law. Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, including stopping at signals, following lane markings, and signaling turns. Importantly, cyclists can use a full lane when needed for safety.
This crucial rule requires drivers to give at least three feet of space when passing cyclists. If they can’t, they must slow down and wait for a safe opportunity. Despite its clarity, many drivers in San Bernardino don’t comply, creating dangerous close passes.
Bicycle helmet law in California dictates that anyone under 18 must wear a helmet, but adults are strongly encouraged to use them too. Helmets dramatically reduce the risk of serious head injuries, and while failure to wear one doesn’t prevent an injury claim, it can complicate fault determinations.
For night riding, bikes must have a white front light visible from 300 feet, a rear red reflector or light, and reflectors on pedals or wheels. These rules aim to prevent crashes after dark—a time when bike collisions often become more deadly.
Cyclists generally ride as close to the right curb as practicable, but they can take the lane to avoid hazards, pass, or make left turns. Knowing these rules helps riders assert their space safely and legally on San Bernardino’s varied roadways.
Brain injuries can differ in type and severity, including:
If you’re able to move, carefully get out of the roadway to avoid further harm. Check yourself and others for injuries, but if you suspect anything serious, especially neck or back pain, try to stay still until help arrives. Prioritize your well-being above retrieving your bike or belongings.
Don’t downplay your injuries or skip calling emergency services. A police report serves as critical evidence if you pursue an insurance or legal claim. Respond honestly to questions without guessing or accepting fault. Emergency responders can also identify injuries you might not notice at the moment.
Exchange contact and insurance information with any involved drivers. If there was a hit-and-run, note the vehicle’s details, like color or license plate. Talk to witnesses and get their contact info; they can help establish the facts later on.
Photograph the crash site, your bike, any vehicles, road conditions, and visible injuries. Write down anything you remember, such as traffic signals, weather, or the driver’s behavior. The more details you preserve now, the stronger your claim can be.
Even if you think you’re fine, see a doctor right away. Some injuries aren’t immediately obvious. Maintain records of all medical visits, test results, and prescriptions. These documents are essential to proving damages in insurance negotiations or legal proceedings.
In a city with varied traffic like San Bernardino, cyclists can experience a wide range of serious injuries when collisions occur.
Even with helmets, cyclists remain vulnerable to concussions or more severe brain injuries. These can lead to headaches, confusion, memory issues, or permanent cognitive challenges. Immediate medical evaluation is crucial, since brain injuries might not show clear symptoms right away.
Accidents can damage the spine or neck, leading to herniated discs, nerve issues, or even paralysis in severe cases. Such injuries may require ongoing treatment and can permanently limit mobility and independence. Even minor back pain after a crash should be taken seriously with proper imaging.
Crashes often result in broken bones, particularly in the arms, collarbone, ribs, or legs. Some breaks require surgery and extended rehabilitation. Recovery can involve significant pain, missed work, and the need for physical therapy or assistive devices.
Being thrown from a bike can cause painful abrasions when skin scrapes across asphalt. While some cases are minor, deeper wounds can lead to infections or require grafts. These injuries are not only painful but can leave lasting scars if not treated properly.
Blunt impacts to the torso can cause internal bleeding or injure organs like the liver or spleen. These injuries may not be immediately visible but can become life-threatening without rapid medical care. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath warrant urgent attention.
While many people focus on the immediate aftermath of a crash, the real cost of a bicycle accident can linger for months, years, or even a lifetime. For riders in San Bernardino and beyond, the long-term effects can reshape nearly every part of daily life.
Fractures, spinal injuries, or traumatic brain damage can leave lasting pain or permanent disability. Many victims require continuous therapy, follow-up surgeries, or medical care for years after the initial crash.
Beyond physical injuries, survivors often grapple with anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Emotional trauma can make it hard to return to cycling, drive, or even feel safe near traffic, impacting relationships and overall well-being.
Serious injuries can keep someone from returning to their previous job or force them into lower-paying work. The loss of income and worries about future medical costs can strain finances and put pressure on families.
Severe crashes may mean lifelong dependence on wheelchairs, home modifications, or personal caregivers. This shift affects not only the injured person but also family members, who may become informal caregivers or face new financial and emotional burdens.
Recovering after a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re also fighting for fair compensation. A dedicated San Bernardino bicycle injury lawyer can be your strongest ally, ensuring you’re not navigating the legal system alone.
Your lawyer will carefully review your accident details, assess whether you have a strong claim, and explain your legal options in plain language so you can make informed choices.
Insurance companies often aim to reduce or deny claims. A skilled attorney knows these tactics and will handle negotiations forcefully, protecting your rights while you focus on healing.
From collecting crash reports to working with accident reconstruction experts, your lawyer will assemble the evidence needed to prove fault and damages, demonstrating the other party’s responsibility.
San Bernardino cases still follow California’s strict time limits for personal injury claims. Your lawyer ensures everything is filed correctly and on time to keep your case moving forward.
Whether by negotiating a settlement or representing you in court, your attorney’s mission is to recover the costs of your medical care, lost wages, and the pain and trauma you’ve endured.
Assigning responsibility in a bike crash is crucial for holding the right party accountable. San Bernardino’s busy streets mean liability can fall on multiple people or organizations, making thorough investigation essential.
Most often, drivers are at fault, especially when they fail to yield, drive distracted, speed, or operate under the influence. Even a moment’s inattention can have life-changing consequences for cyclists.
Hazardous road design, faded bike lane markings, or unaddressed potholes can contribute to accidents. In those cases, San Bernardino City or County agencies may share responsibility for unsafe conditions.
Delivery vans, rideshare services, or company trucks may also be to blame. Their employers might be liable if a driver was on the clock when the crash occurred.
Defective frames, brakes, or other components can cause serious accidents. If a flaw or poor assembly led to your crash, the manufacturer or seller may be held responsible.
Accidents on private driveways, parking lots, or access roads can stem from poor maintenance or hidden hazards. In these cases, the property owner might be liable for injuries.
Proving what happened in a bike crash and how it affected you is vital for a successful case. In San Bernardino, collecting clear, thorough evidence can mean the difference between fair compensation and denied claims.
Accident reports often include crucial details such as driver statements, witness accounts, and any traffic violations noted by responding officers. They provide an unbiased starting point for your case.
Your doctor’s documentation of injuries, treatment plans, and prognosis serves as solid evidence of both the severity and long-term impact of your injuries.
Images of the scene, your damaged bicycle, roadway conditions, and your visible injuries help paint a clear picture of how the accident happened and who was at fault.
People who saw the crash can confirm what led up to it. Their testimony can be key in challenging a driver’s denial or clarifying conflicting accounts.
Specialists in accident reconstruction, medical care, or economic loss can explain complex details, from how the crash occurred to your anticipated medical and financial needs.
Professional assessments can reveal mechanical failures, worn parts, or damage patterns that support your version of events, adding weight to your claim.
Recovering from a bicycle crash in San Bernardino means facing medical bills, lost wages, and life changes you never planned for. Compensation is meant to help restore your financial footing and support your path to healing.
This figure includes ER visits, hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, prescriptions, and long-term treatment needs. Documenting all medical costs is essential for full reimbursement.
If your injuries forced you off the job or reduced your earning potential, you can claim both lost wages and future losses. Pay stubs and employer records help prove these damages.
Beyond medical bills, you deserve compensation for physical pain and emotional distress, recognizing how the accident changed your day-to-day life.
You can claim costs to repair or replace your bicycle, helmet, and other gear. Photos, receipts, and repair estimates strengthen these claims.
If your injuries stop you from hobbies or activities you once loved, you may recover damages for that lost quality of life.
Rare but possible in cases of egregious behavior – like hit-and-run or DUI crashes – punitive damages punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
Determining what your bike accident claim is worth in San Bernardino depends on many factors. An experienced attorney will look at the full scope of your losses to ensure you’re not left paying out of pocket for someone else’s negligence.
You may recover expenses for emergency treatment, surgeries, rehab, and future care needs. Careful documentation ensures all costs are included in your claim.
If you missed work or can’t return to your previous job, your claim can include lost wages and reduced future earning potential. Employment records and expert evaluations often support this part of the claim.
These damages compensate you for physical pain, mental anguish, anxiety, or depression caused by the crash. Personal journals, counseling records, or expert testimony can strengthen your case.
Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your damaged bike, helmet, or other gear is a key component. Photos, receipts, and repair quotes provide proof of these losses.
Reserved for cases where the at-fault driver was grossly negligent, such as reckless speeding or drunk driving, punitive damages aim to punish and deter dangerous behavior.
Insurance negotiations can be especially stressful when you’re trying to recover. In San Bernardino, where busy roads see their share of bike accidents, being careful in how you deal with insurers is critical to getting fair compensation.
Insurers often request recorded statements that can be used to reduce or deny your claim. Politely refuse and direct all communications to your attorney to avoid harmful admissions.
Quick offers may seem tempting but often fail to account for ongoing medical needs or lost income. Accepting too soon can leave you with unanticipated costs later on. Always have your lawyer review any settlement before signing.
Keep records of all medical expenses, lost wages, repair estimates, and communications with the insurer. Photos of your injuries and the accident scene strengthen your case and help secure fair compensation.
An experienced San Bernardino bicycle accident attorney knows local insurers’ tactics and will fight for your best interests. They’ll handle negotiations, push back against lowball offers, and work to ensure your settlement truly reflects your losses.
Time isn’t always on your side after a bicycle crash. In San Bernardino, just like the rest of California, there are strict time limits for filing legal claims. Missing these deadlines could mean losing your right to compensation entirely.
You typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for physical injuries. This applies whether you’re suing a driver, a manufacturer, or another responsible party. After that period, your case may be dismissed regardless of how strong it is.
If your crash was caused by poor road conditions, faulty traffic signals, or other issues linked to public infrastructure, you must file a government claim within six months. If denied, you have a short window to file a lawsuit. These claims involve extra steps and shorter timelines, so it’s best to act quickly.
For damage to your bicycle, gear, or other belongings, you have up to three years to take legal action. This longer window allows time to fully assess repair or replacement costs and gather supporting documentation. However, it’s still wise to act early before evidence becomes harder to obtain.
If the injured cyclist is under 18, the clock typically doesn’t start until their 18th birthday. Other exceptions may apply if the injury wasn’t immediately apparent or the victim was mentally incapacitated. A local attorney can clarify what applies to your case.
If you’re dealing with painful injuries and medical bills, you’re probably wondering how long it will take to get a resolution. The timeline for bike accident cases in San Bernardino can vary depending on many factors, but understanding the general process can help you prepare.
If liability is clear and injuries are minor, your case may settle in a few months. These quicker resolutions often involve direct negotiations with the insurance company. Still, waiting until you finish medical treatment before settling is crucial for an accurate claim.
If you suffered long-term or permanent injuries, your attorney may need time to gather records, consult doctors, and calculate future expenses. Insurance companies often push back harder on higher-value claims, adding to the timeline.
If negotiations break down and your case goes to trial, it could take a year or more. Court cases require extensive prep – discovery, depositions, expert testimony, and possible appeals. While slower, litigation is sometimes necessary for fair compensation.
Most San Bernardino claims settle out of court, but settlement talks can still take time. Your attorney may reject unfair offers and submit counter-demands with stronger evidence. It’s a process, but one that often results in better compensation.
Worried you can’t afford legal help? The good news is that most bicycle accident attorneys in San Bernardino operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. If your lawyer doesn’t win, you owe nothing for their time.
The exact percentage depends on your case’s complexity and whether it goes to trial. You’ll agree on this in writing beforehand. This model ensures your attorney is invested in getting you the best result.
If your case doesn’t result in compensation, most lawyers won’t charge you for their legal services. Some also cover case expenses (like filing fees or expert witnesses) upfront and deduct them later so you’re not out of pocket early on.
Most San Bernardino injury lawyers offer no-cost case evaluations. This pricing structure lets you ask questions, get a sense of your options, and determine if you’re comfortable working with that attorney. No pressure to commit.
While attorney fees are contingent, there may still be case expenses like court filing fees, deposition costs, and expert witness fees. Some lawyers front these costs and subtract them from your final settlement, while others may bill separately. Be sure to ask how these expenses are handled before signing a fee agreement.
Insurance adjusters may sound helpful at first, but their goal is often to protect the company’s bottom line, not yours. In San Bernardino, injured cyclists often face aggressive tactics aimed at reducing or denying valid claims. Here’s what to expect:
Insurers may argue you contributed to the accident. For example, by not signaling, riding unpredictably, or failing to follow traffic laws. Because California uses comparative fault, your compensation can be reduced if you’re partly at fault. A strong legal strategy can limit that impact.
Even though California only requires helmets for riders under 18, insurers may use your lack of helmet as a reason to devalue your head injury claim. A good lawyer can counter this by showing how your injuries aren’t connected, or how liability still lies with the driver.
Insurers may claim you were riding in the wrong place, like the sidewalk or the wrong side of the road. But California law gives cyclists flexibility to leave bike lanes in many situations. Understanding these exceptions is key to pushing back on bad-faith arguments.
If you don’t have photos, police reports, or consistent medical documentation, insurers may question your credibility. This is why documenting everything early and thoroughly matters. Your attorney can help you fill in any gaps.
They might argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the crash but were pre-existing. However, if the accident worsened a prior condition, you can still be compensated. Medical experts can help prove the connection and counter this defense.
San Bernardino’s busy roads, varied terrain, and mix of urban and suburban traffic make cycling safety especially critical. Practicing these smart cycling habits can help you avoid crashes and support your legal case if you’re ever injured on the road.
While California law only requires helmets for riders under 18, they’re highly recommended for all ages. Helmets reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries in a crash. Choose one with a snug fit that meets U.S. safety standards.
San Bernardino streets can have poor lighting in places. California law requires a white front light and red rear light or reflector at night. Bright or reflective clothing boosts visibility, helping drivers see you even on dimly lit roads.
Cyclists must follow the same rules as cars, including stopping at lights, yielding when required, and riding in the correct direction. Lawful riding reduces your crash risk and strengthens your credibility if you need to make a legal claim.
Sudden moves confuse drivers. Always signal turns and lane changes clearly. Consistent, predictable riding makes it easier for drivers to share the road safely.
Many San Bernardino bike crashes happen when cars turn suddenly or pull out of driveways. Slow down, make eye contact with drivers when possible, and ride defensively, even if you have the right of way.
Regularly check your brakes, tires, gears, and lights. A safe, well-tuned bike prevents mechanical failures that can cause accidents, especially on San Bernardino’s roads.
If you or someone you care about has been involved in a bicycle accident in San Bernardino, reach out to us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our dedicated team understands the unique challenges of San Bernardino’s roads and is ready to provide clear legal guidance and fight for the compensation you need.
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San Bernardino offers a rich mix of outdoor adventure, cultural landmarks, and local charm that showcases the best of Southern California’s Inland Empire. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
At RMD Law, we believe that reputation is everything. When clients trust us with their cases, we do everything in our power to help guide them. That means personal service and sharp advocacy. We care about the details of your case because that is how we can get you the best settlement.
First, prioritize safety; move out of traffic if you can and call 911 immediately. Get medical attention even for minor injuries, as issues like concussions may not show right away.
Gather driver and witness information, take photos of the scene and your injuries, and file a police report. Finally, consult a local attorney who understands San Bernardino’s roads and can protect your rights.
Not always. Liability depends on the details. Drivers are often at fault for failing to yield, speeding, or driving distracted, but cyclists can also share blame if they ignored traffic laws. San Bernardino cases follow California’s comparative fault rule, meaning even if you’re partly at fault, you can still recover damages (though your award may be reduced proportionally).
You can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, bike repair or replacement, and reduced quality of life. In extreme cases, like drunk driving or hit-and-run incidents, punitive damages may also apply. An attorney will evaluate all losses to help you pursue fair compensation.
If you were injured, if there’s a dispute about who was at fault, or if an insurance company is offering a low settlement, talking to a lawyer is critical. A San Bernardino bicycle accident attorney can investigate the crash, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the full compensation you deserve, all while you focus on healing.
Yes. While helmets are required by law only for riders under 18, lack of a helmet doesn’t automatically prevent you from recovering damages. However, it may affect the value of a claim if you suffered a head injury that could have been mitigated. An attorney can help argue your case and show other injuries unrelated to helmet use still justify compensation.
Here’s why our clients rely on our legal team to handle their wrongful death claims:
With the city’s growing network of bike lanes and trails, more residents are choosing bicycles and e-bikes for commuting and recreation. However, an increase in bicycle-related accidents has highlighted the importance of knowing and following bicycle laws.
Orange County officials are rolling out new e-bike laws to protect riders, pedestrians, and others. In this article, we’ll break down the new Orange County e-bike laws, why they’re being introduced, and how they could impact personal injury claims and the timeframe for filing a bicycle crash claim.
What’s the most bike-friendly city in the U.S.? While Minneapolis and New York rank high on the list, San Francisco in California takes the cake—and
Over $200,000,000 total recent personal injury wins for our clients. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers are eager to fight for you.
RMD Law found an insurance code violation by the defense insurance company in a dog bite injury case. With smart lawyering, we used the violation to argue that the $100,000 policy limits no longer applied.
The insurance company wrongfully refused to pay our client the $100k policy limit in a rollover auto accident. RMD Law refused to take no for an answer, and filed a lawsuit alleging bad faith, ultimately winning millions for our deserving client.
Confidential bad faith settlement – a negligent driver t-boned our client at a red light resulting in severe spinal injuries. The defendant’s insurance company unreasonably refused to pay the $100K policy limit. RMD Law filed a lawsuit seeking the true value of the case. Policy was opened, and the client settled for an amount vastly higher than the original limits.
We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Ryan is a caring and experienced litigator. He defended scores of depositions and understands what it takes to move a case in California.
Ariana Martin is one of RMD Law’s skilled personal injury lawyers. She brings a lot of legal experience to the table, having worked previously in the field of insurance defense.
RMD Law is a California Personal Injury law firm. We help victims who have been injured in accidents due to someone else’s negligence. RMD Law offers free no-obligation case evaluations for our clients.
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