An Easily Preventable Cyclist’s Death Spurs Lawsuit Against the Parties Who Caused It

Martin Nelis, a 54 year-old Information Officer from the city of Pleasant Hill, was in the prime of his life when he went for his usual lunchtime bike ride in Lafayette on August 2, 2018. A large commercial vehicle, which had just left a nearby construction project, was traveling in the same direction as Martin on his bicycle. As the truck passed Martin, it violated California's Three Feet for Safety Law, striking and killing him. Martin left behind three wonderful adult children whom Altair Law partners Josh White and Kevin Morrison now represent.

White and Morrison are cyclists themselves and, along with Martin's family, are working to raise public awareness of the Three Feet for Safety Law which requires drivers to allow at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist. If there is not at least three feet of space to pass, a driver must wait until the cyclist can be passed safely.

Altair filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the truck driver responsible for Martin's death. The lawsuit also asserted allegations against the developer and contractor of the construction project, as both had violated the terms of a county permit by allowing commercial vehicles to drive on the section of road Martin was cycling on when the accident occurred.

MORE ABOUT BICYCLE CASES

Bicycle Accident Recoveries

$4 Million

Bicyclist Killed by Truck Driver

Delivery company held accountable for truck driver’s reckless turn across bicycle lane which led to the death of a young woman.

$1.375 Million

Bicyclist Struck by Passing SUV

A negligent driver held accountable after violating the Three Feet for Safety Law, striking a bicyclist during an unsafe pass. 

$885,000

Bicyclist Hit Obstructing Stopped Car

A negligent driver held accountable for pulling out and stopping in front of a bicyclist, leaving no room for the bicyclist to avoid impact.  

$500,000

Bicyclist Struck by Drunk Driver

Our client had the foresight to secure underinsured motorist coverage, which covered her injuries after an intoxicated, underinsured driver hit her while she was cycling in Oakland.

CHEERS TO KATHERINE MARKER ON HER 5th ANNIVERSARY WITH ALTAIR

We are genuinely grateful to have had Katherine on the Altair team for an exceptional five years. Her unwavering commitment as our firm's Office Administrator makes her the glue that holds our team together. We deeply appreciate everything she does.

TRIAL WATCH

JOSH WHITE WAS IN A BIKE ACCIDENT THAT CHANGED HIS PERSPECTIVE

After experiencing the legal process as a plaintiff, Josh White knew he wanted to advocate for those in his position that felt they had no voice. He brings that legal dedication to every case.

More About Bicycle Accidents

WHAT OUR COLLEAGUES ARE SAYING ABOUT US

The attorneys at Altair Law are always humbled to hear positive words from former colleagues—it means we are making a real difference in our clients lives. Thank you, Scott.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Altair Law Partners with the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition

We've joined the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition to provide legal services to Bike Coalition members. We provided financial support to propel bicycle advocacy work and help make riding safer for our community. The coalition is one of the country's largest and most effective bicycle advocacy groups.

Learn More About This Partnership

San Francisco Bicycle Coalition Upcoming Events

Webinar: Intro to Biking in SF with Bay Wheels

Wednesday, June 28

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Bike Talk: Bike Activism in Barcelona

Thursday, June 29

6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

OUTSIDE OF THE COURTROOM

Monica and Jasleen at the CAOC Leadership Academy Training

During the second weekend of the Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC) Leadership Academy, Associates Jasleen Singh and Monica La gained vital insights into their leadership potential. They focused on tapping into specific conscious and unconscious motivators that enable our best and most authentic selves to shine. This training helps leaders aspire, inspire, and persevere in advocating for our clients and communities effectively.

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Altair Law assists clients that speak English, Spanish, Mandarin, Hindi, and Punjabi.