Bicycle accidents can happen in an instant, leaving victims with severe injuries and life-altering consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in San Bernardino County, it’s crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible.

At Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel, our team of experienced bicycle accident lawyers is dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured cyclists. We understand the challenges you face and are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Bicycle Accidents in San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County, with its sprawling roads, mountainous terrain, and vibrant communities, is a popular place for cyclists. However, the increasing number of cyclists on the road also means that bicycle accidents are more common. Many of these accidents are caused by negligent drivers, hazardous road conditions, or defective bicycle equipment.

Bicycle accidents can lead to serious injuries, such as:

• Broken bones
• Head and neck injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Soft tissue injuries
• Road rash

In some tragic cases, bicycle accidents can even result in wrongful death. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, it’s essential to consult with an experienced lawyer who can protect your rights and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in San Bernardino County

Bicycle accidents often occur because of another party’s negligence or recklessness. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:

• Driver Negligence: Many bicycle accidents are caused by drivers who fail to yield to cyclists, speed, drive distracted, or drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. For example, a driver making an illegal U-turn or failing to signal can cause a serious accident with a cyclist.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections or when turning, leading to collisions.
• Speeding: Drivers who speed in areas where cyclists are present pose a significant risk to the safety of cyclists. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time and increases the severity of the accident.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven road surfaces, debris, and other hazards on the road can cause cyclists to lose control of their bicycles, leading to accidents. San Bernardino County has numerous rural and urban areas where poor road conditions can lead to serious accidents.
• Failure to Maintain Bicycles: Cyclists who fail to maintain their bikes, such as having faulty brakes or tires, may be more prone to accidents. In some cases, defective bicycle parts may be the direct cause of the accident.
• Cyclist Error: While many bicycle accidents are caused by other parties, some accidents occur due to cyclist error. However, even in these situations, it’s important to assess whether the cyclist was put in a dangerous situation because of another party’s negligence.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in San Bernardino County

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, the steps you take afterward can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. Here’s what you should do:

• Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your first priority. Even if you don’t feel injured right away, it’s important to get checked by a doctor, as some injuries, like concussions, may not show immediate symptoms.
• Document the Scene: If you are able, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. This documentation will be valuable in building your case.
• Gather Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to the accident, be sure to get their contact information. Their testimony can be critical in supporting your claim.
• Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement to file an official accident report. This is especially important if the other party involved in the accident is refusing to take responsibility.
• Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault at the scene of the accident, even if you feel partially responsible. In many cases, the fault may not be clear until a thorough investigation is conducted.
• Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer: As soon as possible after the accident, reach out to an experienced bicycle accident lawyer. They can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Why You Need a San Bernardino County Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle accident claims can be complex, involving multiple parties and intricate legal issues. Here are a few reasons why you should hire an experienced bicycle accident lawyer from Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel:

• Investigating the Accident: Our team will thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, eyewitness statements, and expert testimony to build a strong case on your behalf.
• Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are focused on minimizing their payout. Our lawyers are experienced negotiators who will fight for a fair settlement, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
• Establishing Liability: Proving who is responsible for a bicycle accident can be difficult. Our lawyers will carefully examine all factors involved in the accident and help determine liability, whether it’s the negligent driver, a government entity responsible for road maintenance, or another party.
• Maximizing Compensation: We understand the full scope of the damages you may be entitled to, including compensation for medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, in some cases, punitive damages.
• Protecting Your Rights: As an injured cyclist, you may be up against powerful insurance companies or well-funded corporations. Our team is committed to ensuring your rights are upheld, and we’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Compensation Can You Receive in a Bicycle Accident Case?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care you may need.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, both present and future.
• Pain and Suffering: The emotional and physical pain you endure due to your injuries can be significant. Compensation for pain and suffering can help you cope with the impact of the accident.
• Property Damage: If your bicycle or other property was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement.
• Emotional Distress: Injuries from a bicycle accident can cause emotional trauma. If your injuries have led to anxiety, depression, or other psychological effects, you may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

Contact Our San Bernardino County Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Our San Bernardino County bicycle accident lawyers at Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel are here to fight for your rights. Call 909-881-1131 or contact us online for a 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.