Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California
Bicycle accidents in California frequently occur when drivers fail to share the road safely with cyclists. Many crashes are preventable and result from negligence, inattention, or unsafe roadway conditions.
Common causes of bicycle accidents include:
Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone while driving
Failure to yield at intersections, crosswalks, and bike lanes
Unsafe passing, including violations of California’s three-foot passing law
Opening car doors into the path of cyclists (dooring accidents)
Speeding or aggressive driving near cyclists
Unsafe road conditions, including potholes, debris, or poorly marked bike lanes
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
When a driver, municipality, or other party fails to act responsibly, injured cyclists may have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Because cyclists have little protection, bicycle accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries. Even low-speed collisions can cause significant harm when a cyclist is struck or thrown from their bike.
Common bicycle accident injuries include:
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions
Spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and nerve damage
Broken bones and fractures, especially to arms, legs, and collarbones
Road rash, lacerations, and deep soft tissue injuries
Internal injuries, including organ damage and internal bleeding
Neck and back injuries, including herniated discs
Fatal injuries, leading to wrongful death claims
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care, placing a significant physical, emotional, and financial burden on injured cyclists and their families.
Who May Be Liable in a Bicycle Accident Case
Determining liability in a California bicycle accident often requires a thorough investigation. Unlike standard car accidents, bicycle crashes may involve multiple responsible parties depending on how and where the accident occurred.
Parties that may be liable in a bicycle accident case include:
Negligent drivers who fail to yield, speed, drive distracted, or violate traffic laws
Commercial drivers or employers when a work vehicle is involved
Government entities responsible for dangerous road conditions, poor maintenance, or unsafe bike lane design
Property owners whose negligence creates hazardous conditions near roadways
Bicycle or vehicle manufacturers in cases involving defective components
Identifying all responsible parties is critical to maximizing compensation and ensuring injured cyclists are fully compensated for their losses.
Compensation Available in Bicycle Accident Claims
Injured cyclists may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of losses resulting from a bicycle accident. The value of a claim depends on the severity of injuries, the impact on daily life, and the level of negligence involved.
Compensation in a bicycle accident claim may include:
Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future treatment
Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
Pain and suffering, including physical pain and emotional distress
Permanent disability or disfigurement
Property damage, including damage to the bicycle and safety equipment
Wrongful death damages for surviving family members in fatal accidents
An experienced California bicycle accident lawyer can evaluate the full extent of damages and pursue compensation that reflects both immediate and long-term losses.
Proven Results for Injured Cyclists
ER Trial Lawyers has a proven track record of obtaining significant results for individuals seriously injured due to negligence. Our attorneys are known for handling complex injury cases and aggressively pursuing accountability on behalf of our clients.
Ellis Riccobono has achieved record-breaking results, including a $29.5 million settlement, along with numerous other high-value recoveries in serious injury cases. These results reflect our commitment to thorough case preparation, strategic litigation, and readiness to take cases to trial when necessary.
While every case is different and past results do not guarantee future outcomes, our history of success demonstrates the level of advocacy we bring to each client we represent.
Other verdicts and settlements:
- $3,300,000 Auto v. Bicycle
- $610,000 Bicycle v. Dangerous Condition of Roadway
- $1,100,000 Car v. Bicycle
- $750,000 Limo v. Bicycle
- $1,250,000 (Policy Limits) – Stievenhart v. Chen – Auto v. Cyclist
Why Choose ER Trial Lawyers for Your Bicycle Accident Case
Bicycle accident cases often involve serious injuries, disputed liability, and aggressive insurance defense tactics. Choosing the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Clients choose ER Trial Lawyers because:
We focus on serious injury and complex personal injury cases
Our attorneys are experienced trial lawyers, not settlement mills
We are prepared to take cases to trial when insurers refuse fair compensation
We have a proven record of achieving significant results, including multi-million-dollar recoveries
We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation
We provide personalized attention and direct attorney involvement
Our goal is to protect injured cyclists, hold negligent parties accountable, and pursue outcomes that reflect the full impact of the injuries suffered.
FAQs – Bicycle Accident Lawyers
What should I do after a bicycle accident in California?
After a bicycle accident, seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries are not obvious. Report the accident to law enforcement, document the scene if possible, and avoid giving statements to insurance companies before speaking with a bicycle accident lawyer.
Who is at fault in a bicycle accident?
Fault depends on the circumstances of the accident. Liability may rest with a negligent driver, a government entity responsible for unsafe road conditions, a property owner, or another responsible party. An investigation is often required to determine fault.
Can I recover compensation if I was hit by a car while riding a bike?
Yes. Cyclists injured by negligent drivers may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. The amount depends on the severity of injuries and the facts of the case.
What if the bicycle accident was caused by a dangerous road condition?
If poor road design, lack of maintenance, or unsafe bike lanes contributed to the accident, a government entity or property owner may be held responsible. These cases often involve strict deadlines and specialized legal requirements.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in California?
Most bicycle accident claims must be filed within two years of the accident date. Claims involving government entities may require notice within six months, making it important to act quickly.
How much does it cost to hire a bicycle accident lawyer?
ER Trial Lawyers handles bicycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs and no legal fees unless compensation is recovered.
Speak With a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. Bicycle accident cases can involve serious injuries, complex liability issues, and aggressive insurance defense tactics.
ER Trial Lawyers represents injured cyclists throughout California and focuses on serious injury cases that require experienced trial advocacy. Consultations are free, and there are no fees unless compensation is recovered.
Contact ER Trial Lawyers today to discuss your bicycle accident case.
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