A bicyclist was killed after being struck by a vehicle in Mentone, San Bernardino County, on Saturday morning, July 29, 2023.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff Coroner’s Division and California Highway Patrol, the accident occured at Mills Creek Road and Highway 38 by 9:35 a.m.
What led to the accident remains unknown, but it involved a Chevy SUV that struck the bicyclist. The victim was found at the scene with unknown injuries. He was taken to Loma Linda University Medical Center and was pronounced dead at 10:21 a.m.
The victim has been identified as William E., 55, from Redlands. There were no further details released about the crash.
Investigations into the accident are ongoing.
Award-Winning Bicycle Accident Lawyers in San Bernardino County
If you are injured in a bicycle accident, you may be eligible to file a claim for damages. The lawyer can help you obtain compensation for your injuries if you have been injured in a bicycle accident.
It is crucial to consult with an experienced lawyer in this challenging situation to obtain sound advice. We will notify your insurance company and update your legal documents.
Our San Bernardino County bicycle accident lawyers at Arash Law, headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., are aggressive advocates of defending people injured in bicycle accidents. Our firm has recovered over $750 Million for clients all over California.
To speak with one of our lawyers, call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have a Case?” form.
What To Do After a Bicycle Accident
In California, cars outnumber two-wheelers, so bicycle safety is paramount. You or a fellow rider may be involved in an accident with a motorist. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can make a difference in protecting your rights or those of a companion who has been severely injured. Here’s a checklist to help you maintain control and preserve critical information:
- Dial 911. Call the police or an ambulance immediately. If you are unable to do so, ask someone to help.
- Always wait for the police to arrive and file an official report. A police report provides documentation detailing the incident, including the identity of witnesses.
- Leave your bike in the same state after the crash. It is best if the police see the accident scene undisturbed.
- Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
- Seek medical attention at the scene, emergency room, hospital, or doctor’s office. When in doubt, go to the ER! Give all complaints to the doctor. Medical records prove that you were injured and document the extent of your injuries.
- Take photos of injuries and your bicycle.
- Do not negotiate with the vehicle’s driver, regardless of who may be at fault. Get the driver’s name and insurance information, along with the names of any passengers.
- Make a statement to insurance once you talk to a lawyer.
- Consult with an experienced California bicycle accident lawyer on the next appropriate steps.
Fatal Bicycle Accident Statistics
According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, 932 bicycles were expected to die in motor vehicle incidents in 2020. This marks a 9% increase over 2019, when 856 cyclists were killed.
In cities, bicycles and vehicles are most likely to collide. Car collisions frequently result in injuries or deaths for bicyclists. A bicycle accident usually involves at least one bicycle colliding with a parked or moving automobile, a pedestrian, or another bicycle.
Between 2007 and 2018, eight thousand nine hundred eight cyclists died in the United States. They arrived at the average by dividing the total by 12. In 2018, 857 cyclists were killed, making it the deadliest year for cyclists.
Cycling has become a popular type of exercise for many Californians who are leading healthier lives. Cycling on the road alongside cars can be extremely dangerous, and bicycle accidents can cause severe or fatal injuries.