Newport Beach, California – A bicyclist was critically injured Tuesday morning following a collision with a vehicle that led to the closure of northbound lanes along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Newport Beach.
The crash occurred around 8:35 a.m. near Fernleaf Avenue, according to the Newport Beach Police Department. Fire officials confirmed that the bicyclist was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
The driver involved in the incident stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators, police said. Authorities closed all northbound lanes of PCH, beginning at Goldenrod Avenue, while they conducted their investigation.
A Sigalert was issued at approximately 8:50 a.m., and the closure was expected to last several hours.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Newport Beach Police Department’s Public Information Office at hrangel@nbpd.org
Hospitalized After a Bicycle Accident? Here’s What Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Being hospitalized after a bicycle accident can be one of the most traumatic experiences a person endures. Beyond the physical pain and emotional stress, victims often face overwhelming medical expenses, lost income, and uncertainty about how to move forward. If your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to pursue full compensation for your losses.
Understanding Your Right to Compensation
When a driver or another party causes a bicycle accident, California law allows injured cyclists to file a personal injury claim. With the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer in California, you can seek damages to cover:
- Emergency room and hospital bills
- Ongoing medical treatment, therapy, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and future loss of earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Property damage, including bicycle repair or replacement
Your attorney will assess your medical records, police reports, and witness statements to build a case proving negligence and the extent of your damages.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California
California’s busy streets and highways put cyclists at constant risk. Some of the most common causes of severe or fatal bicycle crashes include:
- Distracted or speeding drivers
- Failure to yield at intersections or bike lanes
- Opening car doors without checking for cyclists (“dooring”)
- Unsafe lane changes or right turns
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Even if you share partial responsibility, you may still be entitled to compensation under California’s comparative negligence laws. A skilled attorney can help minimize your liability and maximize your recovery.
Catastrophic Injuries From Bicycle Accidents
Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. Many suffer catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or severe fractures. These life-altering conditions often require long-term medical care and rehabilitation. A dedicated catastrophic injuries attorney can help you calculate the lifetime costs of care and fight for the compensation you truly deserve.
When Motor Vehicles Are Involved
When a motor vehicle collides with a cyclist, the resulting injuries are often similar to those sustained in motorcycle crashes. A California motorcycle accident lawyer experienced in handling high-impact collisions can use similar legal strategies—such as accident reconstruction and insurance negotiation—to strengthen your case.
What to Do After Being Hospitalized
If you or a loved one has been hospitalized after a bicycle crash, take the following steps to protect your claim:
- Seek immediate medical attention and follow all treatment plans.
- Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters without legal advice.
- Keep records of all expenses, including medical bills, medications, and lost wages.
- Contact a qualified personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Get Help From Megeredchian Law
At Megeredchian Law, our attorneys have decades of experience representing injured cyclists and their families throughout California. We know how to handle complex insurance claims and fight for maximum compensation — so you can focus on your recovery.Call (866) 359-0807 today for a free consultation. You don’t pay any fees unless we win your case.