Fontana Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Fontana Bicycle Accident Attorneys: Providing Expert Legal Support for Cyclists in the Inland Empire
Cycling is a cherished activity in Fontana, offering an eco-friendly way to stay active and explore the scenic routes of the Inland Empire. From cruising along Route 66 to navigating the bike paths near the San Bernardino Mountains, cyclists enjoy the freedom of the open road. However, accidents involving vehicles can result in severe injuries, leaving cyclists facing physical, emotional, and financial challenges. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Fontana, Rialto, Rancho Cucamonga, or surrounding areas, a Fontana bicycle accident lawyer from Banner Attorneys can provide the expert legal guidance you need to secure fair compensation.
The Growing Need for Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Fontana
Bicycle accidents are a pressing concern in Fontana and the broader San Bernardino County. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, San Bernardino County reported over 150 bicycle-related collisions in 2023, with Fontana accounting for a significant portion due to its busy urban streets like Foothill Boulevard and Sierra Avenue. Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports nearly 1,000 cyclist fatalities annually, with urban areas like Fontana contributing to over 70% of these incidents.
These numbers are part of a broader trend. Over the past five years statewide, California has averaged 9,218 bicycle accidents per year—with thousands injured and families impacted. These statistics highlight the risks cyclists face and the importance of having a skilled Fontana bicycle accident attorney to advocate for your rights.
Common injuries from bicycle accidents include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and severe road rash. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can lead to significant financial burdens. At Banner Attorneys, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to helping you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Why Work With Me—Your Fontana Bicycle Accident Lawyer
- Local by Design – I live and breathe Fontana—from Auto Club Speedway to Southridge Park—and I know local laws, road conditions, and judges.
- Proven Results – I boast a 98% success rate, meaning almost every client settles or wins.
- Tough, Not Tactless – I’ll be flexible with you—but uncompromising with insurers and negligent parties.
- No Fees Unless You Win – Your case is contingency-based. It costs you nothing unless I bring home a recovery.
Quick Reference Table
Your Situation | What I Do |
---|---|
Injured near I-10, I-15, or Foothill Blvd | Gather accident scene data, traffic studies, and liability evidence. |
Medical treatment at Kaiser or local clinics | Track all bills, get expert opinions, and preserve medical timelines. |
Dispute over helmet use or shared roads | Counter insurance defenses—road risk is real in our region. |
Hit by suspected DUI driver | Secure toxicology reports, police interviews, and witness statements. |
Need help navigating courts or mediations | Provide courtroom-ready representation—efficiency with authority. |
California’s “Three Feet for Safety” Law: Protecting Fontana Cyclists
California’s “Three Feet for Safety” law is a critical regulation designed to protect cyclists in Fontana and beyond. This law requires motorists to maintain at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist, whether on busy roads like Baseline Avenue or quieter streets in nearby Rialto. Violations of this law can result in fines of $35, or $220 if a collision occurs, though court fees can increase these penalties.
Despite its importance, enforcement of the law remains inconsistent, and many drivers in Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, and Ontario are unaware of it. For example, a cyclist riding near the Auto Club Speedway or the Sierra Lakes Golf Club may still face risks from inattentive drivers. A Fontana bicycle accident lawyer can use this law to establish liability, especially in cases where a motorist’s failure to maintain a safe distance leads to a collision. Our team at Banner Attorneys leverages this legislation to build strong cases for our clients.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Fontana
Bicycle accidents in Fontana often occur due to driver negligence, hazardous road conditions, or defective equipment. Cyclists have the same rights to the road as motor vehicles under California law, yet they face unique risks. Here are the most common types of bicycle accidents in Fontana, Rialto, and surrounding areas:
- Sideswipe Collisions: These occur when a vehicle fails to maintain three feet of clearance while passing a cyclist, often on busy roads like Cherry Avenue or Citrus Avenue. Inattentive driving is a leading cause.
- Rear-End Collisions: A motorist may strike a cyclist from behind, especially if they stop abruptly or fail to notice a cyclist on roads like Arrow Boulevard.
- Right-Hook Accidents: A vehicle passing a cyclist on the left makes a sudden right turn, cutting off the cyclist. This is common at intersections like Sierra and Foothill.
- Dooring Incidents: A driver or passenger opens a car door into a cyclist’s path, often in parking lots near the Falcon Ridge Town Center or Fontana City Hall.
- Left-Turn Collisions: A vehicle traveling in the opposite direction turns left into a cyclist’s path, a frequent issue on multi-lane roads like Valley Boulevard.
- Road Hazards: Poorly maintained roads, debris, or potholes on streets like Beech Avenue can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.
- Defective Equipment: Faulty bicycle components, such as brakes or tires, can lead to accidents, potentially implicating manufacturers.
Our Fontana bicycle accident attorneys thoroughly investigate each case to determine the cause and hold negligent parties accountable, whether they are drivers, property owners, or manufacturers.
What to Do Right Now: Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
- Seek medical attention immediately. Document everything—every ache and limp matters.
- Preserve evidence. Take photos of damage, the bike, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
- Report the accident. Call the Fontana Police Department or California Highway Patrol to file an official report. Having a documented record strengthens your claim.
- Talk to your lawyer before you talk to the insurer. They’ll contact me, and I’ll handle the rest.
- Know your deadlines. California personal injury cases typically have a two-year statute of limitations—but don’t wait to contact your lawyer. Memories fade and evidence can get lost over time.
- Understand your compensation. I fight for the full value—medical bills, lost wages, pain, emotional trauma, and more.
Our Local Expertise Makes the Difference
Fontana’s cycling community thrives, with popular routes along the Pacific Electric Trail and near the San Gabriel Mountains. However, high-traffic areas like Sierra Avenue and intersections near the Fontana Park present risks for cyclists. Nearby cities like Rialto, Rancho Cucamonga, and Ontario also see frequent bicycle accidents due to heavy commuter traffic and urban sprawl.
Families from neighborhoods like Hunter’s Ridge, Citrus Heights, or California Landings often reach out after collisions on busy corridors like Valley Boulevard or near Ontario International Airport. These areas may look familiar—they should, because they’re part of your daily reality.
As someone who practices exclusively in Fontana and surrounding areas, I know where accidents happen and what local courts expect. By choosing a bicycle accident attorney familiar with these areas, you gain an advocate who understands the local landscape and can effectively represent your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Fontana?
Seek medical attention first, even if your injuries seem minor. Call 911 if necessary and file a police report with the Fontana Police Department or California Highway Patrol. Preserve evidence by taking photos of the scene, your bike, and any visible injuries. Finally, contact a Fontana bicycle accident lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.
Who can be held liable for a bicycle accident in Fontana?
Potentially liable parties include drivers of motor vehicles, commercial trucking companies, rideshare operators, government entities responsible for unsafe roads, or even manufacturers of defective bicycles or equipment.
Do I need a lawyer if the insurance company already offered me a settlement?
Yes. Initial settlement offers are often far below the actual value of your claim. A lawyer can evaluate medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term needs to ensure you’re not shortchanged.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident lawsuit in California?
California law generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a government agency is involved (e.g., unsafe roads maintained by the City of Fontana), you may have only six months to file a claim.
What types of compensation can I recover after a bicycle accident?
Compensation may include medical bills, future medical care, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, property damage, and non-economic damages like pain, suffering, and emotional distress. In cases of reckless or drunk driving, punitive damages may also be available.
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the crash?
You may still recover compensation. While helmet use is encouraged, California law does not automatically bar your claim if you weren’t wearing one. However, insurance companies may try to reduce damages, which is why legal representation matters.
Can I file a claim if a hit-and-run driver caused my bicycle accident?
Yes. If the driver is not identified, you may still recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage. An attorney can also help track down additional evidence like surveillance footage or witness statements.
Contact our Fontana Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Fontana, Rialto, Rancho Cucamonga, or anywhere in the Inland Empire, don’t face the legal process alone. Banner Attorneys’ Fontana bicycle accident lawyers are here to provide exceptional representation and fight for the compensation you deserve. With nearly 20 years of personal injury experience, we have the expertise to handle complex claims and the compassion to support you through recovery.
Reach out to us today at (909) 681-1622 for a free, confidential consultation, or fill out our online form. Let us investigate your case, assess your injuries, and hold negligent parties accountable.