Ontario Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Ontario Bicycle Accident Attorney

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Ontario, California, the legal team at Belgum, Fry & Van Allen is here to help. Riding a bicycle on the road can be dangerous, especially when drivers are distracted, aggressive, or fail to yield to cyclists. One careless moment can result in life-changing injuries, mounting medical expenses, and time off work. An Ontario bicycle accident lawyer can help.

Whether your crash involved a hit-and-run driver, dangerous road conditions, or reckless driving, our lawyers can work to hold those at fault accountable. We know how traumatic and physically challenging these accidents can be, and we’re here to help you seek the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Why Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer?

At Belgum, Fry & Van Allen, we have successfully recovered millions of dollars for our clients who have been injured in pedestrian accidents, motorcycle wrecks, and from medical malpractice. Each of these cases demands extensive experience with injury law, medical treatment and expert reports, and insurance company tactics.

These same skills apply when handling bicycle accident claims. Bicycle accident victims often suffer serious injuries with long-lasting effects. We know how to evaluate damages, consult with medical experts, and present a strong case for recovery. With Belgum, Fry & Van Allen on your side, you get experienced legal focus, personal attention, and a proven track record of results for clients across Southern California, including cases involving car accidents, personal injury, truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents.

Where and Why Bicycle Accidents Happen in Ontario

Ontario has dangerous intersections with heavy traffic and vehicle-dependent infrastructure that put cyclists at risk. Collisions occur most often on Euclid Avenue, Holt Boulevard, and near schools and shopping centers. Common causes of bicycle accidents include drivers failing to check blind spots, adhere to stop signs, or opening their car doors into bike lanes. Hazards like poor lighting and distracted drivers also contribute to collisions.

The California Office of Traffic Safety reported that 177 bicyclists were killed in traffic collisions across the state in 2022. Many more suffered serious injuries. Cycling is especially dangerous in populated areas like Ontario, even if a bike lane is clearly marked. Identifying how and where your accident occurred can help establish liability and recover damages you deserve.

What You Should Do After a Bicycle Accident

Your actions after a bike crash are important. Call 911 to report the accident. Get medical treatment even if you feel fine. Symptoms can appear days or weeks later. Take photos, get the driver and witness contact information, and preserve damaged property such as your bike or helmet.

As soon as possible, obtain a copy of the police report. In California, you are also required to exchange insurance information after an accident involving an injury. Do not speak with an insurance adjuster until you have consulted with a bicycle accident attorney. Early action builds your case foundation while defending against insurance companies’ tactics to deny full payment of damages.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries and Recoverable Damages

Cycling accidents can cause serious and even life-threatening injuries. In contrast to drivers and passengers in motor vehicles, bicycle riders have no external protection. Common injuries in bicycle accidents include broken bones, concussions, spinal cord trauma, and internal injuries that may require long-term treatment. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, in 2023, there were 1,155 fatalities that involved a bicycle. This was the highest annual total on record.

At Belgum, Fry & Van Allen, we advocate for injured cyclists to obtain compensation to pay for medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs, emotional distress, and other losses. In the event of a disabling or permanent injury, we also seek damages for loss of earning capacity and reduced quality of life.

FAQs

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Ontario?

After a bicycle accident in Ontario, call 911 and report the accident. Get medical attention and treatment for your injuries. Even if they seem minor, it is important to document everything. Take pictures of the accident scene, your bicycle, and any visible injuries. Obtain the contact information of any witnesses and request a copy of the police report. Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company before speaking with an attorney who will protect your rights and discuss your options.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Bicycle Accident in Ontario?

In Ontario, negligent drivers can be held liable for these accidents, as can trucking companies, city agencies that maintain streets, and sometimes property owners if the danger was near a driveway or business. If defective equipment was part of the cause, the manufacturer could be partially liable.

Our lawyers can thoroughly investigate every lead to determine all responsible parties so that you have the greatest opportunity to recover the maximum amount of compensation you are entitled to under California law.

What If the Driver Left the Scene After Hitting Me?

If you were the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you might still have legal recourse. The driver may be identified through a police report, traffic cameras, or eyewitness testimony. In the event the driver cannot be located, you may be able to collect compensation through uninsured motorist coverage on your auto insurance policy.

The complexity of uninsured motorist claims demands early involvement of a competent lawyer who can protect evidence and secure a fair insurance settlement.

How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in Ontario, CA?

In Ontario, CA, most bicycle injury claims need to be filed within two years of the date of the accident. If the responsible party is a government agency or employee, like the City of Ontario, because of bad road conditions, only six months are allowed to file an administrative claim. Failing to file on time may bar your ability to recover compensation. Contact a bicycle accident lawyer immediately to protect your rights.

Contact an Ontario Bicycle Accident Lawyer

When you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Ontario, you shouldn’t have to deal with the consequences by yourself. At Belgum, Fry & Van Allen, we know how serious these accidents can be and the lasting impact they can have on your life.

That’s why we are so dedicated to protecting cyclists and helping them obtain full and fair compensation in any type of case, whether it involves a careless or distracted driver, dangerous road conditions, poor bike lane design, or even a hit-and-run.

Our team will handle the legal proceedings so you can focus exclusively on your recovery. Call our law office today to book a consultation with an Ontario bicycle accident lawyer.