You never expect a morning commute or evening ride to become an ordeal of suffering. Yet one moment of loose gravel, a pothole as deep as the underworld, or a cracked curb can set everything off kilter—literally. Bike crashes caused by inadequate road conditions are not bad fortune. They are a sign of neglect, and, according to a bicycle accident attorney in San Bernardino, you may have a stronger case than you think. Knowing the effect of poor infrastructure on your rights can be the difference between a winning claim and a dismissed one.
How Road Hazards Can Transfer Liability
Cities and towns owe a responsibility to make their streets safe for everyone, including cyclists. When they fail to fill potholes, restore missing signs, or maintain bike lanes clear of debris, they are responsible for your injuries. The reason is that public entities owe a responsibility to exercise ordinary care. If the dangerous condition led to your crash, that failure to be careful is an integral component of your case.
The type of hazard also matters. Loose manhole covers, potholes in the pavement, or even construction material are all signs of a lack of maintenance. Documenting these hazards as soon as you can after your accident is crucial to proving fault in the future.
Evidence That Supports Your Case
You can sue for damages, but you must first have evidence. Begin by taking pictures of the road condition right after your accident. Identify the precise hazard and add location markers like road signs or nearby buildings. If you can, go back with someone to assist you in documenting the scene in detail.
You should also ask for city maintenance records and citizen complaints. Since other individuals have complained about the same road conditions, it works in your favor that the city was aware—and did nothing. A bicycle accident lawyer can assist in getting this information efficiently and legally.
Legal Timelines Are More Restrictive Than You Think
If there is a government agency involved, your case will have special rules and faster deadlines. Some states only give you 60 to 180 days from the date of injury to file a notice of claim. If you mess up, you can lose your chance to get compensation permanently. That is why you need to move fast—not just medically, but legally with the help of a bicycle accident attorney in San Bernardino.
Don't assume you're guilty simply because you were on a bicycle. Road conditions are more to blame than you realize in the majority of cases. And judges are now more determined than ever on the issue of bike safety.
Guidance on Building a Solid Case
- Take good pictures of the hazard and your injury
- Keep all medical records, including ER records
- Note weather and lighting conditions during the crash
- Interview the witnesses, if available, and record their contact details
- Consult with an attorney who specializes in bicycle accidents
These actions serve to move the story from one of senseless accident to avoidable negligence.
Conclusion
Your bike accident wasn't bad luck—neglect might have caused it. When roads betray you, making the culprits take responsibility isn't just reasonable—it's just. Next time a pothole or loose curb tosses you over the handlebars, remember that you aren't a helpless victim. You do have rights, and it begins with understanding what actually caused you to hit the pavement and hiring a bicycle accident attorney in San Bernardino.
A1 Accident Lawyer, 335 N Brookhurst St, Anaheim, CA 92801, United States, +1-714-535-5090
About Us
We are a group of lawyers and attorneys specializing in personal injury cases. We also write informative content on various complex aspects of personal injuries to educate victims and their families.