Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation and recreation in California. Subsequently, there has also been a rise in bicycle accidents and bicycle accident lawsuits. Reckless drivers, hazardous road conditions, and careless pedestrians cause accidents to occur. Therefore, understanding personal injury laws and filing a bicycle accident lawsuit is crucial.
Why should I file a bicycle accident lawsuit?
Filing a bicycle accident lawsuit in California may enable you to recover damages if you sustain injuries in a cycling accident. These damages may include physical injuries, bicycle damage, lost wages, and medical bills. Consult a lawyer before interacting with the driver’s insurance company, as they often try to settle claims for as little as possible. Consulting a California bike accident lawyer is crucial in cases where factors like cracked cement or a pothole cause the accident, as determining liability can be challenging.
How common are biking accidents in California?
Bicycling accidents are unfortunately prevalent in California. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that in 2020, the U.S. witnessed 1,260 bicyclist deaths and received reports of nearly 356,630 cyclist-related injuries. California has the highest rate of bicycle fatalities.1
What should I do after I get hit by a car on my bike in California?
Seek medical attention.
After a bike accident, it is important to prioritize seeking medical attention. Even if you feel fine initially, certain injuries may manifest later, therefore, getting checked by a doctor is crucial.
Gather information.
Gather information about the accident, such as the driver’s details, and witnesses, and document the scene with photographs or videos, to strengthen your bicycle accident lawsuit.
Do not admit fault.
Avoid admitting fault, as the jury determines fault in a bicycle accident lawsuit. It’s essential to contact a California bicycle accident lawyer to handle negotiations with the insurance company and ensure you receive proper compensation.
Can I file a bicycle accident lawsuit with the city?
Road conditions often contribute to bike accidents, and in some cases, the city or property owners may be responsible for negligently causing these accidents. Dangerous road conditions like potholes, cracked cement, or uneven sidewalks may lead to accidents. Property owners, including commercial and private properties, as well as the city itself, may be liable for maintaining safe road conditions. In California, there have been cases where the city paid substantial amounts in damages in bicycle accident lawsuits due to accidents caused by dangerous road conditions.
What damages are available in a California bicycle accident lawsuit?
In a bicycle accident lawsuit, various damages may be available to compensate the injured cyclist. These damages can include medical bills, lost wages, lost earning capacity, bike repair costs, and pain and suffering.
Can I file a bicycle accident lawsuit if my spouse or child was killed in an accident?
In cases where a cyclist dies due to an accident, surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek damages for burial and funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. Punitive damages may also be awarded if extreme or outrageous conduct by the defendant is proven.
Assert your right to file a bicycle accident lawsuit.
Bicycle accidents in California pose significant risks to cyclists, and understanding the legal aspects is crucial for victims seeking compensation. By filing personal injury lawsuits, injured cyclists can hold responsible parties accountable for their actions and receive damages for their losses. With the help of California bicycle accident lawyers, victims can navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. Furthermore, raising awareness about bike safety, improving road conditions, and fostering a culture of shared responsibility can contribute to reducing the frequency and severity of bicycle accidents in the state.
