American roads became the backdrop of tragedies in 2022: 1,005 cyclists lost their lives, and 46,000 were injured. In California alone, cyclists accounted for 4% of all traffic fatalities – people whose lives were brutally cut short by reckless drivers, poor infrastructure, and institutional failures. But there is one Phoenix law firm that is taking a stand for justice on behalf of victims of accidents. This article covers their efforts and real case examples.
The Dark Side of Cycling
Cycling’s popularity grows in the U.S. – bike journeys have increased since 2000 from 0.4% to 0.6% of all journeys. But greater popularity means danger. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sees deaths of cyclists increase 15% since 2013 and injuries 11% alone in 2021–2022. In cities where 83% of deadly crashes occur, cyclists face dense traffic, bad bike lanes, and inattentive drivers.
California stands out: 177 cyclists sustained fatal traumas in California in 2022, 64% on high-speed roads with no provision for bicycles. 37% were alcohol-related, and 51% of the nighttime crashes were due to visibility. Medical expenses following a crash cost an average of $45,000, and traumatic brain injury (TBI) can exceed $200,000. Emotional damage – fear, loss of confidence, and inability to ride again – is incalculable. Financial losses, such as lost wages, can persist for years, especially for those who rely on manual labor.
Fighting for Justice
And, predictably enough, the biggest obstacle for hurt bikers is insurance companies. They have various tactics: disputing fault, raising the point of a missing helmet, or arguing injuries are unrelated to the accident. However, founded in 1998 by UC Berkeley School of Law graduate Robert Goldwater, Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group has made its business defending cyclists.
The firm counters these tactics by relying on:
- Medical reports;
- Accident reconstructions;
- Expert testimonies;
- Crash site photographs;
- Correspondence with insurers.
Having secured over $1 billion for clients, the agency operates nationwide, from Phoenix to Los Angeles, helping victims of dooring incidents, hit-and-run cases, and wrongful death claims.
Major Victories: Real Cases of Justice for Cyclists
Despite insurance companies often delaying the process, hoping victims will accept minimal settlements, the agency employs aggressive negotiations and, when necessary, litigation, securing fair compensation for its clients. Here are a few notable cases:
#1. Emily, Phoenix
Emily Davis, 34, a teacher, cycled to school daily in Phoenix. In 2021, a driver distracted by his phone opened his car door directly in front of her – a dooring incident. A broken wrist and chronic pain threatened her ability to work. The insurance company offered only $10,000, blaming Emily for not paying attention. The firm’s attorneys gathered camera footage and witness statements, proving the driver’s liability. Result: $95,000, covering medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress. Emily returned to teaching but now chooses bike-friendly routes.
#2. Michael, Sarasota
In Sarasota, 28-year-old designer Michael Rivera was the victim of a hit-and-run. A driver struck him and fled, leaving Michael with multiple fractures and internal injuries. Police closed the case due to a lack of evidence, but the firm found street camera footage and GPS data, identifying the perpetrator. Settlement: $1.5 million, covering medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost income. Michael returned to work and now advocates for improved road lighting, inspired by the lawyers’ support.
#3. Knopp, Los Angeles
In Knopp v. City of Los Angeles, a 45-year-old father lost his life due to an unsafe road and a negligent driver. A wrongful death lawsuit became the family’s only path to justice. The insurance company initially offered $80,000, but attorneys pushed the case to trial, securing $4.7 million. The settlement provided financial stability, and the lawsuit led to new safety signs at the intersection – a prime example of how legal advocacy can improve infrastructure.
Bottom Line
Bicycle Accident Lawyers Group turns personal tragedies into catalysts for change, securing not only compensation but also systemic improvements in infrastructure and legislation. Their work serves as a bridge between victims and justice and between today’s accidents and safer roads tomorrow. Moreover, the firm ensures legal services remain accessible through its contingency fee model – payment only upon victory, usually 30–40% of the settlement, removing financial barriers for Indigenous communities and families with limited resources.
We sincerely hope you never need these services, but if you do, you now know where to find support. Call or visit the website – free consultations are available by phone or online for everyone. Let’s work together to make roads safer for all.
