Bicycle Accidents

Supporting Injured Cyclists in California

Bicycle accidents can lead to serious injuries and complex legal questions. If you've been hurt while cycling in California, you may be facing medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about your rights. AskLitigation is here to help you understand your options and pursue fair compensation.

Cyclist injuries are common in urban areas, intersections, and on shared roads. Our attorneys handle cases involving not only bicycle accidents but also car accidents and pedestrian accidents.

What Counts as a Bicycle Accident?

A bicycle accident occurs when a cyclist is injured due to:

• Collisions with motor vehicles
• Dangerous road conditions or defects
• Dooring incidents (car doors opening into bike lanes)
• Collisions with pedestrians or other cyclists
• Defective bicycle equipment
• Poor road design or maintenance

California's extensive cycling infrastructure means these accidents happen frequently, especially in busy areas.

California Bicycle Laws and Your Rights

California has specific laws protecting cyclists:

• Equal Road Rights: Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers
• Bike Lane Requirements: When present, cyclists must use bike lanes unless making turns or avoiding hazards
• Helmet Laws: Riders under 18 must wear helmets; adults are encouraged but not required
• Three Feet Rule: Motorists must give cyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing
• Protected Bike Lanes: Many California cities have dedicated, protected cycling infrastructure

Understanding these laws helps establish fault and strengthen your claim.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California

Most bicycle accidents in California result from:

• Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
• Failure to yield right-of-way
• Unsafe lane changes or turns
• Opening car doors without checking
• Speeding in residential areas
• Driving in bike lanes
• Poor visibility conditions
• Road hazards and defects

California's year-round cycling weather means constant vigilance is required from both cyclists and drivers.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident

If you're in a bicycle accident in California:

1. Call 911 - Get police and medical help immediately
2. Document everything - Photos of injuries, bike damage, scene, and vehicles
3. Get driver information - License, insurance, contact details
4. Collect witness information - Names and contact numbers
5. Preserve evidence - Keep damaged equipment and clothing
6. Seek medical attention - Even if injuries seem minor
7. Report to insurance - But avoid recorded statements without legal advice
8. Contact an attorney - Protect your rights early

Compensation for Bicycle Accident Injuries

California bicycle accident victims may recover:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Ongoing medical care and therapy
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering damages
• Property damage (bicycle, equipment, clothing)
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death damages for families

The severity of injuries often leads to substantial compensation needs.

California's Comparative Negligence Law

California follows pure comparative negligence, meaning:

• You can recover damages even if partially at fault
• Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault
• Common factors include not wearing helmets, riding against traffic, or lacking lights

An experienced attorney can minimize fault attribution and maximize recovery.

Time Limits for Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim

In California, you typically have:

• Two years from the accident date for personal injury claims
• Three years for property damage claims
• Six months for claims against government entities

Acting quickly preserves evidence and strengthens your case.

Why Bicycle Accidents Often Result in Serious Injuries

Cyclists are vulnerable because:

• No protective enclosure like cars
• Limited protective gear
• Speed differentials with vehicles
• Direct impact with pavement
• Head injuries common even with helmets
• Multiple impact points (vehicle, then ground)

These factors often lead to traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, and broken bones.

Frequently Asked Questions About California Bicycle Accidents

Does not wearing a helmet affect my California bicycle accident claim?

If you're over 18, not wearing a helmet doesn't bar recovery, but it might reduce compensation if it contributed to head injuries. Under 18, helmet law violations may affect your claim.

What if the driver who hit me doesn't have insurance?

You may recover through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, the driver's personal assets, or potentially from other liable parties like employers or road maintenance entities.

Can I sue the city for poor road conditions that caused my accident?

Yes, government entities can be liable for dangerous road conditions, but you must file a claim within 6 months and prove they knew or should have known about the hazard.

What if I was riding in a crosswalk when hit?

California law varies by locality. Some areas prohibit riding in crosswalks while others allow it. This may affect fault determination but doesn't automatically bar recovery.