California Bicycle Accident Lawyer Serving Riverside

If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Riverside, California law may allow you to seek damages for the harm you suffered.

Bicycle crashes are especially dangerous because bicyclists absorb the full force of an impact. Even accidents at lower speeds can result in serious or permanent injuries.

The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez represents injured bicyclists throughout Riverside, Riverside County, and nearby communities including Banning, Beaumont, Blythe, and Calimesa.

Bicycle Accident Claims in Riverside — Understanding Bicycle Injury Claims

Bicycle accident cases in Riverside often involve unique liability issues, and insurance carriers may minimize injuries. A strong claim usually depends on building proof before it disappears and clearly showing why the crash was preventable.

Many bicycle crashes happen when drivers fail to yield, misjudge a cyclist’s speed, or violate basic traffic rules. Other incidents involve roadway hazards such as uneven pavement, poor visibility from missing warnings, or dangerous conditions that a cyclist had no fair warning about.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Riverside

• Drivers violating a cyclist’s right-of-way at intersections and driveways
• unsafe turning collisions involving vehicles turning across a cyclist’s path
• Distracted driving from in-vehicle screens and inattention near bike lanes
• Unsafe passing, tailgating, or failing to provide safe clearance
• “Dooring” accidents where a vehicle door creates an unavoidable hazard
• Hazardous roadway conditions including poor drainage and surface defects
• phantom vehicle crashes where the at-fault driver leaves the scene

Bicycle Accident Injuries We See in Riverside

Because cyclists are exposed, injuries are often life-changing and may require extended rehabilitation. Even when symptoms seem mild at first, injuries can worsen over time, especially involving the joints.

• TBIs and ongoing post-concussion symptoms
• Broken bones such as wrists and orthopedic injuries requiring casting or surgery
• Neck injuries including herniated discs, nerve pain, and mobility limitations
• Road rash, abrasions, and soft tissue injuries
• Internal injuries that require immediate treatment

Who May Be Liable for a Bicycle Accident in Riverside

Liability depends on which duty was breached. In many cases, more than one party may be responsible, including a driver, an employer, a property owner, or a public entity. We look for all responsible parties to avoid leaving compensation on the table.

• careless motorists who failed to drive safely around cyclists
• companies when a worker caused the crash while on the job
• municipal departments responsible for roadway design, signage, or maintenance
• Property owners whose premises conditions contributed to the incident
• Manufacturers when a defective bicycle part or safety component contributed to the injury

Compensation Available After a Bicycle Accident

An injured cyclist may be entitled to compensation for financial losses and the life disruption caused by the crash. The value of a case often depends on lost income and the strength of the evidence proving fault.

• Medical expenses including surgery and future treatment
• Lost wages and time away from work
• physical pain
• anxiety and trauma-related symptoms
• disability and long-term limitations

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents

What if the insurance company blames me?

California follows comparative negligence, which means you may still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. Insurers often try to reduce payout, so documenting the crash and preserving evidence matters.

What is the time limit for a bicycle accident case?

Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years, but shorter deadlines can apply when a city or county is involved. Acting early protects your rights and improves evidence.

Do I need a police report?

A police report is not required in every situation, but it can provide valuable documentation when liability is disputed. If possible, gather photos, witness information, and prompt medical records.