Gilbert Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Why Bicycle Accidents Often Lead to Severe or Long-Term Injuries

Bicyclists have little protection compared to drivers in enclosed vehicles. When a crash happens, even at low speeds, the impact can be devastating. Cyclists are exposed to direct contact with pavement, curbs, and vehicles, leading to injuries that are often more serious than those in car-to-car collisions.

Some of the most common injuries from bicycle accidents include:

• Broken bones
• Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Road rash and deep lacerations
• Internal bleeding or organ damage
• Dental and facial injuries

These injuries may require surgery, months of physical therapy, or even permanent lifestyle changes. Some cyclists are never able to return to their jobs, sports, or routines. That’s why these cases must be taken seriously from the start. A proper claim not only covers current medical bills, but also long-term care and life adjustments.

Contact our bicycle accident attorneys in Gilbert, AZ, now for a FREE, NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION.

How Our Gilbert Bicycle Accident Lawyers Prove Fault and Protect Your Rights

Proving who was at fault in a bicycle accident is one of the most important steps in any injury claim. At Thompson Law, we start by listening to your story and gathering the evidence needed to show exactly what happened and why you deserve compensation.

We work to prove fault by:

• Reviewing police reports and crash scene details
• Gathering witness statements and surveillance footage
• Checking for traffic violations, speeding, or distracted driving
• Investigating road conditions, signage, and lighting
• Consulting with medical and accident reconstruction experts if needed

Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto cyclists or downplay the seriousness of their injuries. We push back on those tactics and make sure your rights are protected at every stage. While you focus on healing, we’ll handle the paperwork, negotiations, and legal strategy to pursue the best outcome possible.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact our Gilbert bicycle accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best bicycle accident law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated bicycle accident attorneys who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let a bicycle accident case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law’s Gilbert bicycle accident lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

What If a Dooring Incident Caused Your Bicycle Crash in Gilbert?

“Dooring” happens when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. It’s a common cause of urban bicycle crashes, and it can cause serious injuries, especially when the rider has no time to brake or swerve.

In Arizona, vehicle occupants are required by law to check for approaching traffic before opening a door. Failing to do so can make them liable for any injuries caused.

If you were injured in a dooring crash, you may be able to pursue compensation from:

• The driver or passenger who opened the door
• The vehicle owner’s insurance policy
• Additional parties if the vehicle was part of a business or delivery service

These cases often rely on eyewitness statements, photos, and nearby camera footage. Our legal team can act quickly to gather this evidence, establish fault, and hold the responsible party accountable.

Contact our bicycle accident lawyers in Gilbert now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

How Poor Road Design or Maintenance Can Contribute to Bike Accidents

Not all bicycle accidents are caused by reckless drivers. Sometimes, the road itself is the problem. Poor road design, neglected maintenance, or unsafe traffic patterns can create dangerous conditions for cyclists, especially in areas where bikes and vehicles share space.

Examples include:

• Potholes, uneven pavement, or debris in the bike lane
• Poorly marked or non-existent bike lanes
• Inadequate lighting near intersections or shared paths
• Misaligned traffic signals that don’t account for cyclists
• Storm grates or rail tracks that can catch bike tires
• Curbs or sidewalks that force cyclists into traffic

If road design or poor maintenance played a role in your crash, you may have a claim against a government agency or contractor responsible for the road. These claims have different rules and shorter deadlines, so it’s important to act quickly.

Our Gilbert bicycle accident lawyers know how to investigate these unique cases and pursue compensation from the responsible entities. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION if unsafe road conditions contributed to your injuries.

Dangerous Intersections in Gilbert for Cyclists

Cyclists in Gilbert often share the road with fast-moving traffic and cross paths with vehicles at busy intersections and trail crossings.

While the town has expanded its trail system and promoted more bike-friendly initiatives, several key areas still pose serious risks, especially for those riding along popular routes like the Heritage, San Tan Vista, Marathon, and Western Powerline Trails.

In 2021, Gilbert commissioned a detailed safety assessment of 46 trail crossings after a rise in usage and concerns about cyclist and pedestrian safety. The study found a total of 704 incidents within 500 feet of these crossings over a five-year period. The findings highlighted just how vulnerable cyclists are at these junctions, especially where traffic signals, signage, or visibility are lacking.

Some of the most hazardous trail crossings identified in the report include:

• San Tan Vista Trail and Pecos Road
• Heritage Trail at Warner Road
• San Tan Vista Trail and Val Vista Drive
• Marathon Trail and Higley Road
• Western Powerline Trail and Greenfield Road (site of a fatal teenage bike crash)

Many of these crossings lack sufficient warning signs, stop indicators, or protective features for those crossing by bike.

The town has acknowledged these safety issues and is working to implement upgrades, including high-visibility crosswalks, improved signage, and even underpasses in some locations. However, until those improvements are fully realized, cyclists must remain vigilant.

If you were injured at one of Gilbert’s trail crossings or intersections, you’re not alone—and you may have grounds for a legal claim. Our Gilbert bicycle accident lawyers can help investigate the conditions at the scene and determine whether local design flaws or missing safety features contributed to your crash. Contact us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

What Gilbert Laws Say About Bicyclist Rights and Motorist Responsibilities

Arizona law recognizes bicycles as vehicles, which means cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers on the road. Understanding these laws is critical after a crash, especially when insurance companies try to shift blame onto the cyclist.

Here are key rules every cyclist and motorist in Arizona should know:

• Bicyclists are allowed to ride on public roads and must follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles, including obeying stop signs and traffic signals.
• Motorists must maintain a safe distance when passing a cyclist. Arizona law requires drivers to leave at least three feet of space when overtaking a bicycle on the road.
• Bicyclists may ride two abreast on roadways but must stay as far to the right as practicable, except when turning left or avoiding hazards.
• When bike lanes are present, cyclists are generally expected to use them, but they are not required to if the lane is obstructed or unsafe.
• Cyclists must use a white headlight and a red rear reflector or light when riding at night (ARS § 28-817).
• Drivers must yield to bicyclists in crosswalks and at intersections, just as they would to pedestrians.

These laws aim to protect cyclists, but enforcement can be inconsistent. If a driver violated any of these rules before a crash, it can strengthen your personal injury claim. Our legal team can help interpret the law, gather evidence, and prove fault based on Arizona statutes.

Contact our Gilbert bicycle accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Gilbert Ordinances That Impact Bicycle Safety and Sidewalk Use

With more than 60 miles of marked bike trails and over 135 miles of multiuse paths, Gilbert has worked to position itself as a bike-friendly community. But with increased ridership comes the need for clear safety rules. Local ordinances and town planning initiatives directly impact how cyclists navigate roads, trails, and sidewalks.

Beyond ordinances, Gilbert continues to improve cycling infrastructure. The 2019 Bike Gilbert Plan focused on long-term safety upgrades, while a 2020 Trail Crossings Safety Study led to targeted improvements at some of the most dangerous trail crossings in town.

One standout project is the green bike lanes, which started at Gilbert and Warner Roads and expanded to intersections like Gilbert and Guadalupe. These green-painted lanes increase visibility for both cyclists and drivers at high-traffic crossings.

For added support, the town has also installed public bike repair stations along key trails such as the Western Canal, Eastern Canal, and the Powerline Trail.

Together, these efforts show Gilbert’s commitment to safer, more connected cycling, but knowing and following the rules remains essential for protecting yourself and strengthening any legal claim after a crash. If you were hit while biking in Gilbert, our legal team can evaluate how local laws and roadway design may factor into your case. Contact us for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Hospitals and Emergency Services Near Common Bike Crash Sites in Gilbert

Emergency treatment creates a formal record of your injuries, which is essential when seeking compensation.

Here are several key hospitals and emergency providers located near high-traffic biking areas in Gilbert:

• Banner Gateway Medical Center (1900 N. Higley Rd.):  Located near the San Tan Vista Trail and Higley Road, this full-service hospital offers 24/7 emergency care, trauma services, and advanced imaging capabilities.
• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center (3555 S. Val Vista Dr.):  Near Pecos Road and the San Tan Vista Trail, this facility is part of the Dignity Health network and specializes in trauma, surgical care, and orthopedics.
• Chandler Regional Medical Center (1955 W. Frye Rd., Chandler):  While technically outside Gilbert, it’s a short drive from trail crossings like Lindsay and Warner. Known for its trauma unit, it’s often used for more severe cases.
• Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department:  First responders from Gilbert’s fire department are typically first on scene at local bike crashes. Their rapid response helps stabilize injuries and coordinate hospital transport.

If you’re involved in a crash, always get checked out, even if you feel okay. Delayed symptoms are common in head, neck, and internal injuries. Prompt treatment also creates a clear timeline linking your injuries to the accident, which is critical for legal claims.

Our team can help collect medical records, coordinate with providers, and ensure your treatment supports a strong case for compensation. Contact us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Why Choose Thompson Law for Your Bicycle Injury Case in Gilbert

When you’re recovering from a bicycle accident, choosing the right legal team can make a big difference, not just in the outcome of your case, but in how supported you feel along the way. At Thompson Law, we take bicycle injury cases seriously because we understand how devastating they can be, both physically and financially.

Here’s what sets our firm apart:

• We know Gilbert. From the San Tan Vista Trail to downtown intersections like Val Vista and Warner, we understand the town’s roadways, trail systems, and local ordinances. That local knowledge gives your case an edge when it comes to proving fault and understanding municipal responsibility.
• We focus on serious injuries. Bicycle crashes often involve life-changing trauma. We work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial planners to calculate the full impact of your injuries, both now and in the future.
• We handle everything. From dealing with insurance adjusters to preserving crash evidence, we take care of the legal process so you can focus on your recovery. Our team investigates the scene, gathers witness statements, reviews traffic laws, and pushes back when insurers try to minimize your claim.
• You pay nothing unless we win. We work on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront costs and no fees unless we recover compensation for you.
• We treat your case with care, not like a number. Our attorneys work directly with you, provide regular updates, and stay committed to the outcome, because this isn’t just another case to us. It’s your life.

If you’ve been injured while riding a bike in Gilbert, we’re here to help you get answers, accountability, and real results. Contact our Gilbert bicycle accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Gilbert Bicycle Accident FAQs

How do you get a police report after a bicycle accident in Gilbert?

You can request a police report from the Gilbert Police Records Section in several ways:

• Online:  Visit the JustFOIA public records portal and complete the external records request form.
• In Person:  Go to the Records Section at 75 East Civic Center Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85296. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on most holidays).
• By Mail:  Send your request to the same address with detailed information about the incident (date, location, report number, names of those involved).

If you’re a listed victim in the report, you may be entitled to one free copy. For traffic accident reports, you can also access approved reports online through BuyCrash.com, using your Departmental Report number, accident date, and a credit card for download.

How long do you have to file a bicycle accident claim in Gilbert?

Arizona generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If the accident involves a government entity (such as unsafe public road conditions or a crash involving a municipal vehicle), you must file a Notice of Claim within 180 days and a lawsuit within one year. Missing these deadlines can result in your case being dismissed, so it’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?

Hit-and-run bicycle accidents are unfortunately common and can still be pursued legally. If the driver is later identified, they can be held accountable both criminally and civilly. If the driver is never found, you may still be able to recover compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage if you have it.

Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes, you can still file a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Arizona does not require helmets for bicyclists, although they are strongly encouraged. However, not wearing one could become a factor in how damages are calculated, especially in head injury cases.

What should I do if my child was injured in a bicycle crash in Gilbert?

If your child was hurt in a bicycle accident, start by getting them medical care immediately, even if their injuries seem minor. Then file a police report and gather as much evidence as possible, including photos, witness information, and details about the driver or road conditions. In Arizona, minors have until two years after their 18th birthday to file a personal injury claim, but it’s still best to start the legal process early.