Palo Alto, CA – On the afternoon of Wednesday, July 2, 2026, a collision with a charter bus left bicyclist Jennifer Smith severely injured, according to KRON.
The Palo Alto Police Department reports that the accident took place near San Antonio and Middlefield Roads.
Authorities said Smith was riding her bicycle when a charter bus turned in front of her, leading to the collision. Smith was transported to Stanford Hospital for treatment of her injuries.
The bus driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. The circumstances leading up to the crash had not been determined at the time of reporting.
A friend and fellow cyclist, Reginald Webb, said he was riding behind Smith when the collision occurred and ran after the bus while banging on its side in an attempt to stop it. He remained with Smith while awaiting emergency personnel.
Webb described Smith as facing a very long road ahead and has organized a GoFundMe campaign to assist with her medical costs, recovery, and everyday expenses.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Palo Alto Bicycle Accidents and Personal Injury Claims
California law requires bus drivers and all other motorists to exercise a heightened duty of care toward the cyclists they share the road with, who are more vulnerable to severe in a collision. Drivers must check for bicyclists before making turns and yield appropriately when sharing the road. When a bus turns directly into the path of a cyclist and causes severe injuries, the driver and potentially the charter company itself may bear liability for the resulting damages.
Smith and others injured in similar circumstances may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. A personal injury claim can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.
California Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California bicycle accident lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
