Bicycling is a popular way to commute, exercise, and enjoy Southern California’s scenic beauty. However, in San Bernardino County, the combination of heavy vehicle traffic, fast-moving roads, and limited bike infrastructure can pose serious hazards to cyclists, especially at intersections. When bikes and cars collide, the consequences can be devastating. At Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel (LMSCR), we represent injured cyclists.

Why Are Intersections So Dangerous for Cyclists?

Intersections are one of the most common places for bike accidents to occur, especially when drivers are distracted, aggressive, or simply unaware of bicyclists’ rights to the road. In San Bernardino County, cities like San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, and Victorville have seen a rise in traffic congestion and motor vehicle crashes, many of which involve cyclists in or near intersections.

Common dangers at intersections include:

• Left-turn accidents, where a vehicle turns into the path of an oncoming cyclist.
• Right-hook collisions, where a vehicle turns right across a bike lane or shoulder.
• Failure to yield, especially at uncontrolled or poorly marked intersections.
• Running red lights or stop signs, which places both drivers and cyclists at risk.
• Dooring incidents, where a parked driver opens their door into a cyclist’s path near an intersection.

Who Is at Fault in a Bike vs. Car Intersection Crash?

California law treats bicycles as vehicles, meaning cyclists have many of the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Determining fault in a bike accident often comes down to the details of the incident—did a driver fail to yield, drift into a bike lane, or ignore a stop sign? Did a cyclist fail to signal or disobey a traffic law?

Police reports, eyewitness testimony, video footage, and accident reconstruction can all be used to establish liability. In many cases, the driver is found at fault for not watching for cyclists or failing to share the road. However, California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means an injured cyclist can still recover damages even if they were partially at fault.

What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident in San Bernardino County?

If you’ve been hit by a car while riding your bike, your priority should be medical attention. Even seemingly minor crashes can result in serious injuries like concussions, broken bones, and internal trauma.

Here are the steps to take after an accident:

• Call 911 and report the incident.
• Get medical attention, even if you feel okay at the scene.
• Gather information, including driver details, insurance info, and contact info for witnesses.
• Take photos of the scene, your bike, your injuries, and any damage to the vehicle.
• Avoid making statements to the insurance company before consulting a lawyer.

What Types of Compensation Are Available?

Cyclists injured in traffic collisions may be entitled to several forms of compensation under California law, including:

• Medical bills (emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage (e.g., bike repairs or replacement)
• Future medical care

If a driver acted recklessly—such as texting while driving or running a red light—you may also be eligible for punitive damages.

Are There Dangerous Intersections in San Bernardino County?

Yes, some intersections are known for frequent bicycle and vehicle crashes. Areas near schools, shopping centers, and freeway off-ramps are particularly hazardous. Intersections along Baseline Road, Foothill Boulevard, Highland Avenue, and E Street have been the sites of numerous traffic incidents, especially in cities like Rialto, Fontana, and Redlands.

Poor road design, limited bike lanes, and high-speed traffic all contribute to the danger. While local governments have made some strides in improving infrastructure, much work remains.

How Can LMSCR Help Injured Cyclists?

At LMSCR, we have been protecting the rights of injury victims across San Bernardino County for decades. Our legal team understands how bike accidents happen, how to investigate liability, and how to deal with insurance companies that may try to undervalue your claim.

We offer:

• Free consultations
• Contingency-based representation—you don’t pay unless we win
• Aggressive advocacy to secure full and fair compensation
• A deep understanding of California personal injury law

Our lawyers are local to the Inland Empire and familiar with the roads, traffic patterns, and insurance companies that cyclists are up against.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cyclists have the right of way at intersections in California?

Yes—cyclists must follow the same traffic laws as vehicles, and drivers must yield when appropriate. If a cyclist has a green light or is in the intersection first, they generally have the right of way.

Can I file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes. While wearing a helmet is strongly encouraged (and required for minors), not wearing one does not automatically prevent you from filing a personal injury claim. However, it could affect your compensation if your head injury was worsened by the lack of a helmet.

How long do I have to file a claim after a bike accident in California?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a government agency is involved (e.g., a city vehicle or dangerous road), the deadline can be as short as six months.

Injured in a Bicycle Crash? Contact Our San Bernardino County Bike Accident Lawyers at LMSCR Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident at an intersection in San Bernardino County, don’t wait to get legal help. The sooner you act, the stronger your case may be. Contact our San Bernardino County bike accident lawyers at LMSCR to schedule your free consultation. Located in Ontario and Victorville, California, we serve clients in San Bernardino County, Ontario, Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Colton, and Riverside County. Call 909-889-1131 or complete our online form today.