Bicyclists in California are at risk of experiencing severe and catastrophic injuries when motorists drive negligently and recklessly. If you’ve been hurt when cycling, you deserve an attorney with the experience and dedication to fight tirelessly for your right to damages.

The Accident Network Law Group offers clients unparalleled legal representation in the aftermath of their bicycle accident, and we are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our injured clients. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about the difference a skilled bicycle accident lawyer can make.

Why Are Bicycle Accidents So Frequent in California?

Bicycle accidents are relatively common in California. Our state has one of the highest rates of bicycle-related injuries and fatalities in the United States. California has an extensive network of urban roads and a high population density, as well as being popular amongst cyclists for commuting and recreation, all of which contribute to the state’s high numbers of accidents and injuries.

The generally mild climate and temperatures mean that cycling is a year-round activity in California. Plus, tourism is a booming industry across urban areas and scenic regions like the coast, wine country, and the mountains.

Common Outcomes of Bike Accident Cases in California

California uses a system known as pure comparative negligence in personal injury cases like car and bicycle accidents. This means that people involved in an accident can seek damages even if they are mostly at fault for the accident. Any amount of compensation you receive is reduced by your shared percentage of fault. So, if you are 20% at fault for your accident and suffered $45,000 in damages, you would be awarded $36,000.

Establishing fault is vital to the success and outcome of your case. It’s important to prove that the driver or other party is mostly at fault for the accident so that your financial award is not impacted too greatly. A bicycle accident attorney can help you build a case that supports your injury claim.

Bicycle Laws in California for 2024

California Vehicle Code Section 21200 grants bicyclists the same rights and responsibilities as motorists on California’s roads. This means that the rules of the road apply to cyclists, such as right-of-way rules and driving under the influence. It also means that cars and trucks must grant bicycles the same rights as they would other large vehicles.

There are some laws that are especially applicable to bicycles, including:

• Motorists must give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing or traveling alongside.
• Cars and other vehicles cannot block a designated bike path.

Bicyclists in California can also take the lane, which means they have the right to move into a lane other than the bike lane, even if they are moving slower than the rest of the traffic. This applies in the following situations:

• When the cyclist is passing
• To avoid hazards on the road
• When the cyclist is preparing to make a left turn

There are numerous other laws and regulations that cyclists and motorists should be aware of. If you have specific questions about riding a bike on California’s streets or how to recover damages after an accident, contact the Accident Network Law Group.

Determining Liability for Bicycle Accident Injuries in California

California’s pure comparative negligence rule means that even if a cyclist is partially at fault for an accident, they can still recover damages. However, the compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault. This rule does not mean that determining liability shouldn’t be a priority in a bicycle accident case. Since your percentage of fault will impact the amount of damages you can recover, it’s vital to your case that you collect evidence and create a strategy that will support your claim.

Steps Cyclists Can Take to Prevent Bike Accidents

Bicyclists cannot always control what happens on the roadways, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and prevent serious injuries.

Wearing protective gear, and specifically helmets, is perhaps one of the most important and impactful ways to prevent serious injuries. Reflective clothing and bicycle lights are also beneficial for improving visibility and helping motorists see you better when riding.

It’s also important to keep current on the local laws and state requirements. Regulations change regularly, so staying up to date on what’s required of cyclists and motorists is a giant step toward safety.

Whenever possible, consider planning your routes so that you have access to bike lanes and less traffic-heavy roads. Avoiding congested areas and staying in designated lanes can help you prevent accidents.

Contact a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer

A bicycle accident attorney can be instrumental in helping you navigate the legal process after an accident, including negotiating with insurers and calculating a fair compensation amount. With the complexities of liability and California’s pure comparative negligence system, having an experienced attorney by your side can ensure your rights are protected and you have a higher chance of securing maximum compensation. Contact the Accident Network Law Group to schedule a free consultation.