Atherton, CA – On the morning of Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a bicyclist lost their life after being struck by a vehicle, according to KRON.
The Atherton Police Department reports that the accident took place around 7:40 AM at the intersection of Middlefield Road and Prior Lane.
Authorities stated that both the bicyclist and the driver of the vehicle were traveling southbound on Middlefield Road when the driver initiated a right-hand turn onto Prior Lane.
During the maneuver, the vehicle struck the bicyclist, who had been riding in a designated bike lane. Emergency responders arrived quickly and transported the injured cyclist to a nearby hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Police said that impairment by drugs or alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in the crash.
The identity of the deceased bicyclist has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. This incident marks Atherton’s first fatal traffic collision of the year.
Bicycle Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards bicyclists, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for bicyclists with whom they share the road and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a bicycle accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
