San Diego Bicycle Accident Attorneys — Protecting Injured Cyclists Across Southern California

If you’ve been injured in a Bicycle Accident in San Diego, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in your recovery—both physically and financially. San Diego has established itself as one of California’s most bicycle-friendly cities, with miles of scenic trails, coastal routes, and dedicated bike lanes attracting both recreational riders and daily commuters. But despite these improvements, cyclists in San Diego still face serious dangers on the road. Distracted drivers, unsafe intersections, poorly maintained bike lanes, and aggressive motorists continue to put riders at risk every day. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), California consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of bicycle accident injuries and fatalities. Locally, San Diego County sees hundreds of serious bicycle crashes annually, many of which could have been prevented.

Every crash tells a different story—and at Michelle Gershen Law, we treat every case with the individual care it deserves. From the moment you reach out, we craft a legal strategy tailored to your circumstances. We work closely with accident reconstruction experts, consult leading medical specialists, and manage every aspect of the claim so you can focus on healing. Whether your accident happened along the crowded streets of downtown San Diego, the busy bike paths near Mission Beach, or the fast-moving corridors of University Avenue, we’re here to fight for the justice and full compensation you deserve.

Why Contact Michelle Gershen Law for Your Bicycle Accident Injuries

After a bicycle accident, it’s not just your body that needs healing—your financial security, emotional well-being, and future independence are often on the line. Insurance companies move quickly to protect their bottom line, sometimes denying fault or offering lowball settlements. Without experienced representation, you risk accepting less than you deserve for your medical care, lost wages, and future needs.

At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we fight to level the playing field. Michelle Gershen personally handles every case with compassion and determination, ensuring no detail is overlooked and no future cost is forgotten. We collaborate with accident investigators, traffic engineers, and medical experts to build strong, evidence-backed cases that hold negligent parties fully accountable.

When you choose our firm, you’re not just hiring an attorney—you’re gaining a dedicated advocate who will stand beside you through every step of the legal process, fighting for your rights and your recovery.

Common Types of Bicycle Accidents in San Diego

Cyclists in San Diego enjoy some of the most scenic bike routes in California—but they also face real dangers from inattentive drivers, flawed street designs, and dense traffic zones. Understanding the specific types of bicycle accidents that occur throughout San Diego is critical not only for prevention but also for building a strong injury claim if an accident happens. At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we have handled cases across the city, from coastal corridors to inland commuter routes, and we know how and where these accidents tend to occur.

Right Hook Accidents

One of the most common and dangerous collisions for cyclists in San Diego is the “right hook” accident. This happens when a driver traveling in the same direction turns right across a cyclist’s path without checking their blind spots or yielding properly. These crashes often occur in areas with heavy mixed-use traffic, such as Mission Boulevard in Pacific Beach or along Garnet Avenue where bike lanes weave through busy shopping and dining districts.

Right hook accidents are particularly dangerous because they usually happen at intersections where drivers are more focused on vehicle traffic and often completely overlook cyclists riding alongside them. A sudden, unexpected right turn leaves the cyclist with almost no time to brake or swerve, often throwing them into the vehicle’s side panel or even into other moving traffic. These crashes can cause fractured bones, head trauma, and catastrophic road rash injuries. Sadly, tourists unfamiliar with San Diego’s streets often contribute to these mistakes, making popular beach zones even riskier for local riders.

Left Cross Collisions

Left cross collisions occur when a motorist making a left turn fails to yield to a cyclist coming from the opposite direction. In San Diego’s busy downtown grid—especially at intersections like Broadway and 6th Avenue or around Little Italy—visibility can be limited by parked cars, large trucks, or urban landscaping.

Drivers in these high-density areas often misjudge a cyclist’s speed or distance, assuming they have enough time to complete the turn. Cyclists traveling straight through the intersection legally in their designated lane may have no warning before impact. Left cross accidents typically result in devastating injuries because the collisions are often head-on or broadside, with very little opportunity for the cyclist to avoid the crash. When these incidents happen near transit corridors or busy business districts, gathering camera footage or witnesses quickly becomes crucial to prove the cyclist’s right-of-way.

Dooring Incidents

San Diego’s lively neighborhoods—such as Hillcrest, North Park, and the Gaslamp Quarter—feature vibrant street life and tightly packed rows of parked cars. But these dense parking setups create a major hazard for cyclists: dooring accidents. A dooring occurs when a driver or passenger opens their vehicle door directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist, offering the rider little or no time to react.

Bike lanes on streets like University Avenue or India Street are often squeezed tightly between parked cars and traffic lanes, placing cyclists dangerously close to swinging doors. Even at low speeds, dooring can eject cyclists from their bikes, sending them crashing into the street or into moving traffic. Common injuries include wrist fractures from bracing during a fall, concussions, facial trauma, and serious road rash. Although California law (Vehicle Code § 22517) requires drivers to check before opening their doors, violations remain common—and the consequences for cyclists are severe.

Rear-End Bicycle Collisions

Rear-end collisions involving cyclists are among the most deadly types of crashes in San Diego, especially in areas with limited lighting or shoulder space. Routes like Morena Boulevard, parts of Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, and sections of El Camino Real in North County can be particularly hazardous after dark, when cyclists are harder to see and drivers may be distracted or speeding.

Unlike vehicles, bicycles don’t have reinforced bumpers or crash zones. A car striking a cyclist from behind can launch the rider off their bike, causing catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord trauma, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and internal bleeding. In many cases, drivers simply fail to give cyclists enough space or misjudge their speed. Victims often face months of physical rehabilitation and emotional trauma following a rear-end crash, especially if they lose the ability to ride or work as they did before the accident.

Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents happen when a motorist fails to leave adequate space while passing a cyclist, brushing or clipping them with their side mirror, door, or body of the vehicle. Streets like University Avenue, Adams Avenue, and Friars Road—which often have limited or poorly marked bike lanes—are notorious for close encounters that can easily turn into serious collisions.

Even a minor sideswipe at city speeds can cause a cyclist to lose control and crash into parked cars, trees, utility poles, or moving traffic. Many riders suffer fractured shoulders, collarbones, or wrists as they instinctively try to break their fall. Sideswipes often happen because of simple negligence: drivers texting, adjusting music, or rushing through heavy traffic without checking blind spots or side clearance. Under California’s Three Feet for Safety Act (Vehicle Code § 21760), motorists are legally required to provide at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist—but too many drivers ignore this rule, putting San Diego’s cycling community at constant risk.

Common Injuries from San Diego Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists in San Diego have the benefit of beautiful riding conditions almost year-round—but they also face serious risks when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Unlike car occupants, cyclists have no external protection, making them extremely vulnerable to catastrophic injuries during an accident. Whether you’re riding along the coast at Pacific Beach, commuting through downtown traffic, or exploring Mission Trails Regional Park, one collision can change everything. At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we have seen firsthand how devastating bicycle accident injuries can be, and we work tirelessly to ensure that every injury is properly documented and fully compensated.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head injuries are among the most serious outcomes of bicycle accidents, even for riders who wear helmets. In busy zones like Mission Bay Drive or Downtown San Diego, a simple impact with a vehicle, the pavement, or a fixed object can lead to a traumatic brain injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TBIs are a leading cause of disability and death among cyclists nationwide.

Victims of TBIs may experience memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, impaired motor skills, and emotional instability. Sadly, many San Diego cyclists suffer TBIs from relatively “minor” falls at intersections like those in Hillcrest or along El Cajon Boulevard. Some symptoms don’t appear immediately, making early medical evaluation essential. Long-term impacts can include the need for neurological therapy, lifelong medications, and loss of earning capacity.

Spinal Cord Injuries

When a cyclist is thrown from their bike after being struck—especially on faster-moving roads like Harbor Drive or Morena Boulevard—the spine absorbs much of the trauma. Spinal cord injuries from bicycle accidents can range from herniated discs to complete paralysis, depending on the force and angle of impact.

Cyclists suffering spinal injuries often require extensive rehabilitation and may never regain full mobility. Recovery involves multiple stages, including surgeries, physical therapy, and adapting homes and vehicles for accessibility. Given the long-term nature of spinal damage, calculating future medical needs and lost income becomes critical in any serious injury claim.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Broken bones are among the most immediate and painful injuries following a bicycle crash. Whether bracing during a fall or absorbing the impact of a vehicle collision, cyclists frequently suffer fractures in the wrists, arms, collarbones, hips, and ribs. Along busy corridors like Pacific Highway and Park Boulevard, collisions involving cyclists and distracted drivers are a common cause of these injuries.

Some fractures can heal with simple immobilization, but many require surgical intervention, especially if the bone is displaced or shattered. Severe fractures often demand extensive rehabilitation and, in some cases, may result in permanent disability or chronic pain conditions that impact every aspect of daily life.

Road Rash and Soft Tissue Damage

Sliding across San Diego’s sunbaked asphalt after a crash often results in severe road rash injuries. Areas near Mission Boulevard, Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, and even Coronado’s bike paths see frequent road rash incidents due to high cyclist traffic combined with dense vehicle flows.

Road rash isn’t just a minor scrape; deep abrasions can remove multiple layers of skin, leading to infections, nerve damage, and permanent scarring. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) emphasizes that cyclists are particularly vulnerable to skin injuries during even moderate-speed falls. Beyond road rash, torn ligaments, sprained joints, and muscle contusions can also dramatically impact quality of life and require months of therapy to heal fully.

Internal Injuries

Blunt-force trauma from bicycle accidents can lead to internal bleeding or serious organ damage—injuries that may not be visible but can be life-threatening if not quickly treated. Cyclists struck along high-speed roads like Friars Road or freeway-adjacent bike routes are particularly vulnerable to internal trauma.

Commonly affected organs include the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs. Victims may not realize the severity of their injuries at the scene, but symptoms like dizziness, abdominal pain, and shortness of breath can indicate internal bleeding. Emergency diagnostic imaging (CT scans, ultrasounds) and surgery are often necessary to stabilize the victim. Without prompt care, internal injuries can cause permanent damage or death, highlighting the importance of immediate medical attention after any serious crash—even if injuries seem minor at first.

Types of Compensation Available After a San Diego Bicycle Accident

The financial and emotional toll of a bicycle accident can be devastating. In San Diego, where cyclists often share crowded roads with fast-moving traffic, accident victims face not only immediate medical bills but also long-term rehabilitation, emotional trauma, and financial instability. At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we fight to ensure that every aspect of your loss—both visible and invisible—is recognized and fully compensated. Knowing what types of damages you may be entitled to is critical when navigating your claim.

Medical Expenses

Medical care is often the largest and most urgent financial burden following a bicycle accident. Emergency ambulance transport, ER evaluations, diagnostic imaging, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and follow-up visits all add up quickly. In San Diego, with leading trauma centers like Scripps Mercy Hospital and UC San Diego Health, advanced care is accessible—but it often comes with steep costs.

Victims can recover compensation for both current medical expenses and anticipated future medical needs. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), long-term care costs after serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries can remain high for years after the initial hospitalization. That’s why it’s critical to work with experienced attorneys who account for surgeries, therapy, assistive devices, and home modifications when building your case.

Lost Wages and Loss of Future Earning Capacity

Many San Diego cyclists injured in crashes are forced to miss work for weeks or even months while recovering. Some victims face permanent limitations that prevent them from ever returning to their previous jobs—especially those who worked in physically demanding industries like construction, hospitality, or first response.

Compensation for lost wages includes the salary or hourly income you missed while healing. If your injuries limit your ability to earn the same income going forward, you can also claim future lost earnings. Vocational experts and economists often work with attorneys to calculate the true financial impact of a permanent injury, ensuring that you don’t settle for less than you need to rebuild your financial future.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering damages recognize the real human costs of an accident: the chronic physical pain, emotional anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life that victims endure. Riding a bike through Balboa Park, commuting along Harbor Drive, or exploring coastal trails may no longer be possible after a serious crash—and that loss is worth compensation.

Under California law, pain and suffering are considered non-economic damages, and juries have wide discretion to award amounts based on testimony, medical evidence, and the overall life impact. According to a California Courts guide on personal injury, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, disfigurement, and loss of quality of life all factor into these awards.

Wrongful Death Damages

When a bicycle accident results in the tragic death of a loved one, family members have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. San Diego County has seen heartbreaking fatal crashes involving cyclists on stretches like Pacific Highway, Harbor Drive, and near Balboa Park.

Wrongful death compensation may cover:

• Funeral and burial expenses
  
  
• Loss of future financial support
  
  
• Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
  
  
• Emotional grief and suffering of surviving family members

Pursuing a wrongful death claim can help surviving spouses, children, or parents find financial stability while honoring their loved one’s memory.

Recent Bicycle Accidents and Lawsuits in San Diego

San Diego has witnessed several significant bicycle accidents and legal settlements in recent years, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by cyclists. These cases reveal how negligence, poor road conditions, and driver inattention continue to cause preventable tragedies—and show why strong legal action is necessary to create safer streets.

$2.95 Million Settlement for Cyclist Killed by Parked City Truck

In September 2020, Hossein Samadi tragically lost his life while cycling on Carmel Valley Road when he collided with a City of San Diego stormwater truck parked illegally in a bike lane without proper warnings. The absence of cones, flashing lights, or flaggers contributed to the fatal crash. In February 2024, the city council approved a $2.95 million settlement to Samadi’s family, acknowledging the city’s failure to maintain a safe environment for cyclists.

$7 Million Settlement Following Cyclist’s Death in Old Town

Marc Woolf, a dedicated cyclist and San Diego Zoo employee, suffered catastrophic injuries when a vehicle backed out into his path on Congress Street in May 2021. Thrown into oncoming traffic, Woolf was struck a second time and later succumbed to his injuries. His family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the City of San Diego, arguing that poor lighting and unsafe road design contributed to the crash. The case concluded with a $7 million settlement in October 2023.

$20 Million Settlement for Cyclist Paralyzed by Unmarked Construction Trench

In December 2017, Sheng “Sam” Du, a software manager at Verizon, was cycling on Sorrento Valley Road when his bike plunged into an unmarked, open construction trench. With no warning signs or barriers in place, Du suffered catastrophic injuries that left him quadriplegic. A lawsuit against the City of San Diego and contractors led to a $20 million settlement, highlighting the dangers of unsafe construction zones for cyclists.

$13 Million Award in Wrongful Death of Navy Surgeon

Dr. Michael Mazurek, a U.S. Navy orthopedic trauma surgeon, was fatally injured in 2009 when an American Medical Response van made a sudden, non-emergency turn directly into his path. After a lengthy trial, Dr. Mazurek’s family was awarded $13 million, reduced from an initial $17.4 million due to comparative negligence findings. This case serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of distracted or careless driving around cyclists.

$4.85 Million Settlement for Injuries from Uneven Pavement

Cyclist Clifford Brown suffered spinal cord injuries and severe head trauma after hitting a dangerously uneven section of pavement while riding along College Avenue in Del Cerro. Launching over 20 feet upon impact, Brown later pursued a lawsuit against the City of San Diego for failing to maintain safe roadways. The case resulted in a $4.85 million settlement, emphasizing the responsibility municipalities have to ensure cyclist safety.

Lawsuit Filed Over Cyclist’s Death on Pershing Drive

In July 2021, Laura Shinn, an architect and San Diego State University faculty member, was struck and killed while biking in a designated lane along Pershing Drive. The driver, later found to be under the influence, veered into the bike lane. Shinn’s husband filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the City of San Diego and SANDAG, arguing that the roadway’s unsafe design contributed to the tragedy.

These cases demonstrate the very real risks cyclists face daily in San Diego. They also show that when cities, companies, or individuals fail to protect cyclists, strong legal action can help secure justice—and drive critical safety improvements for all.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in San Diego

The moments immediately after a bicycle accident can be overwhelming—but taking the right steps can protect your health, your rights, and your future financial security. At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we want you to know that your safety and legal protection come first. Here’s what you need to do if you’ve been injured:

1. Call 911 and Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel “okay” at first, serious injuries—like concussions, internal bleeding, or spinal trauma—may not show symptoms right away. Always accept medical evaluation at the scene or get to a hospital immediately. Documentation of your injuries from the start will be vital to your case.

2. Document the Scene

If you are physically able, take photos of your injuries, your bicycle, the vehicle involved, license plates, traffic signs, skid marks, debris, and the overall scene. Visual evidence can make or break a personal injury claim later on.

3. Gather Witness Information

Collect names, phone numbers, and email addresses of any witnesses. Independent eyewitness accounts can strongly support your version of events when an insurance company or negligent driver tries to twist the story.

4. Avoid Admitting Fault

Stay calm, but do not apologize, admit blame, or speculate about the cause of the crash to anyone—including the police, drivers, or witnesses. Simply state the facts. Anything you say can be used against you during the claims process.

5. Report the Accident Properly

File a police report, even if the driver tries to dissuade you. An official record will strengthen your case tremendously. Be sure to ask how you can obtain a copy of the report.

6. Contact a San Diego Bicycle Accident Attorney Immediately

Before speaking with insurance adjusters, protect yourself by contacting The Law Office of Michelle Gershen. Insurance companies are not your allies—they are trained to minimize payouts. We step in immediately to defend your rights, handle the insurance negotiations, and start building a powerful case on your behalf.

We’re Furious That You Were Hurt — And We’re Ready to Fight for You

At The Law Office of Michelle Gershen, we are outraged every time a cyclist’s rights are shattered by a negligent driver, a reckless company, or a careless city agency. You were doing everything right—you were riding legally, responsibly—and someone else’s choices stole your health, your freedom, and your peace of mind.

We don’t just “handle” cases like yours—we go to war for our clients. We will fight relentlessly to hold those responsible fully accountable, to force the insurance companies to pay what you deserve, and to make sure you are not left alone to deal with the aftermath. Your pain, your losses, and your future matter to us—and we will not stop until we’ve helped you secure the maximum compensation you need to heal and rebuild your life.

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You didn’t choose this battle. But we’ll make sure you win it!