Coronado, California (March 17, 2026) — A 78-year-old Coronado man was killed Tuesday afternoon after a collision between his bicycle and an SUV along the Silver Strand, according to authorities.
The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as James Joseph Berta of Coronado.
The crash occurred shortly after 1:30 p.m. on southbound State Route 75 (Silver Strand) at Tulagi Road, near the Naval Amphibious Base.
Incident Details: According to Coronado police, Berta was riding his bicycle southbound on SR-75 when it collided with an SUV at the intersection with Tulagi Road.
Emergency responders arrived quickly after a 911 call reported the collision. Officers and the driver of the SUV attempted to provide aid to Berta at the scene, but those efforts were unsuccessful.
Berta was pronounced dead at approximately 1:49 p.m. due to injuries sustained in the crash, which were later described as blunt force traumatic injuries.
Authorities confirmed that the SUV driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Police stated that alcohol and drugs are not believed to have been factors in the collision.
The crash led to significant traffic disruption along the Silver Strand. Officials temporarily redirected all southbound traffic back through Coronado for several hours while investigators processed the scene.
Investigation: The Coronado Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
In bicycle-versus-vehicle crashes at intersections, investigators typically examine right-of-way, traffic control devices, visibility, and the movements of both the cyclist and driver leading up to the impact. Authorities will likely review physical evidence such as vehicle damage, bicycle positioning, and roadway markings, as well as any available surveillance footage or witness statements. Investigators may also analyze whether either party entered the intersection in a manner that limited the ability to avoid the collision.
Even in cases where impairment is not suspected, factors such as driver attentiveness, cyclist positioning, and intersection design can play a significant role in determining how a crash occurred.
At this time, officials have not announced any citations or charges. The investigation remains ongoing.
Legal Considerations: Bicycle collisions at intersections often raise complex questions regarding right-of-way and shared roadway responsibilities. Under California law, both drivers and cyclists are required to follow traffic laws and exercise reasonable care. Determining liability often depends on whether either party failed to yield appropriately or misjudged traffic conditions at the intersection.
Pending the outcome of the investigation, Berta’s surviving family members might have the right to file a wrongful death claim. This claim can seek damages for significant losses, such as funeral and burial costs, the deceased’s expected lost earnings, and the loss of companionship, comfort, affection, and emotional support caused by the untimely passing.
Beyond the legal issues, incidents like this highlight the ongoing risks faced by cyclists, particularly at busy intersections where vehicles and bicycles meet.
I extend my deepest condolences to the Berta family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Sources: NBC San Diego