This case study illustrates how GJEL Accident Attorneys successfully represented a cyclist who suffered severe injuries after being hit by a van. Our attorneys overcame insurance disputes and secured a favorable settlement for our client. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, contact GJEL for a free consultation today.


Bicycle Accident Case Study | Albany, CA | GJEL Attorneys 1

$135,000.00 Recovered for Bicyclist Hit by Van in a Designated Bike Lane

Our client was commuting on his bicycle to his home in Albany, California, from the UC Berkeley campus, where he was a graduate student. He was in the designated bike lane on Marin Avenue and was crossing its intersection with Key Route Boulevard. A Dodge Caravan was making a left turn from Marin into Key Route, and it moved across and directly blocked our client’s line of travel, so he had no opportunity to avoid colliding into the side of the van.

The bicyclist struck face-first into the glass and metal frame of the automobile’s side window. The force of the impact shattered the glass; our client came to rest lying on the pavement in the middle of the street.

Case Facts

While being transported by ambulance to the Highland Hospital emergency department, our client’s vital signs indicated he had become hypotensive, prompting a Code III alert to the ER for trauma activation. Also, an electrocardiogram (ECG) indicated he might have had an acute myocardial infarction. 

A CT scan revealed fractures of the left clavicle and the jaw bone (mandibular condyles, bilaterally) and dislocation of the shoulder (acromioclavicular) joint. Several teeth were fractured, and he complained of pressure and pain in the right ear, which was diagnosed as a punctured eardrum. Several facial lacerations required suturing.

A series of oral surgeries were necessary to repair the dental fractures. Several follow-up outpatient visits were needed for the left shoulder to achieve an acceptable degree of function.

After identifying areas of mild emotional and cognitive concerns, such as decreased short-term memory, impaired multitasking ability, and increased irritability, a neuropsychological analysis concluded that our client had sustained a mild traumatic brain injury from a concussion.

The injured bicyclist retained GJEL Accident Attorneys to pursue his claim for damages against the van driver. Initially, Progressive Insurance Co., the driver’s carrier, contested the liability issue, in addition to a denial of the severity and the extent of the injuries. Through investigation and discovery, GJEL partner Jim Larsen developed a strong factual basis for driver liability, resulting in Progressive’s concession.

To obtain the maximum recovery for our client’s medical damages, Attorney Jim Larsen consulted with experts in addition to the treating physicians. He also successfully negotiated a substantial reduction in the medical lien asserted by Blue Cross. These efforts resulted in our client obtaining maximum benefits.

Insurance Company Names:    Progressive Insurance
Meridian/Blue Cross
Police Report  Albany Police Department
Vehicle Types  Bicycle
2013 Dodge Caravan
Accident Locations:Highland Hospital, Oakland, CA
Hospitals and Medical Centers Visited Highland Hospital, Oakland CA
Types of Injuries (Specific as possible) Fractured clavicle, fractured jaw, fractured teeth, facial lacerations, dislocated shoulder

This case underscores the vulnerability of cyclists on the road and the importance of having experienced legal representation after a bicycle accident. GJEL Accident Attorneys’ thorough investigation, medical expertise, and negotiation skills ensured our clients received the maximum compensation for their injuries and losses.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t let the insurance company dictate the outcome of your case. Contact GJEL today for a free consultation. Our dedicated team will fight for your rights, ensuring you receive the medical care and financial support needed to recover and rebuild your life.

Remember, you are not alone. GJEL Accident Attorneys are here to provide compassionate and effective legal representation, guide you through the complexities of the legal process, and help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Author Photo

Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.