Cycling in California can be a wonderful experience – sunny days, beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to stay in shape while exploring the city. However, the reality is that cyclists share roads with potentially deadly vehicles. If you are hit by a car while riding a bicycle, it is important that you know your rights and options. At such times, contacting an experienced bicycle accident attorney can be key to protecting your interests and securing fair compensation.
California Laws Protecting Cyclists
California has some of the strictest bicycle safety laws in the country. These laws are not just for decoration – they can be your best defense when an accident happens.
The three-step rule may be the most important rule you need to know. Drivers must leave at least three feet of space when racing cyclists. If the driver hit you while passing and did not respect this rule, he has a strong basis for a lawsuit.
Cyclists also have the right to the full lane whenever it is safe to do so. You are not obligated to “lean” to the side of the road if there is not enough room for safe driving along the edge.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Most bicycle accidents are caused by driver negligence. Here are the most common scenarios:
- Dooring – when someone opens the door of a parked car directly in front of a cyclist. This is a particularly common problem in urban areas such as San Francisco or Los Angeles.
- Right turns – drivers often miss cyclists when turning right, especially at intersections. This is one of the deadliest types of accidents.
- Failure to yield the right-of-way – Drivers who do not stop at stop signs or red lights hit cyclists who have the right-of-way.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs – unfortunately, an everyday occurrence that leads to disastrous consequences for cyclists.
Your Rights After an Accident
If you have been hit by a car, you are entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses – everything from emergency care to long-term rehabilitation. California has no limits on medical expenses in personal injury cases.
Lost earnings – if you are unable to work because of an injury, you are entitled to compensation for lost earnings, including future earnings if the injury is permanent.
Pain and suffering – it is difficult to put a price on physical pain and emotional trauma, but the California courts can and do so regularly.
Property damage – your bike, helmet, equipment, and everything that was destroyed in the accident.
Why You Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies are not your friends. They have armies of lawyers whose only goal is to pay as little money as possible. Without an experienced attorney on your side, you are unlikely to receive fair compensation.
A good lawyer will:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
- Talking to Witnesses
- Working with accident reconstruction specialists
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies
- Represent you in court if necessary
What to Do Immediately After an Accident
Call the police – always, even if the accident seems minor. You need an official report.
Seek medical help – adrenaline can mask injuries. See a doctor even if you feel well.
Document everything – take pictures of the accident scene, the vehicles, your injuries, and the bicycles. Anything can be important.
Get contact information from drivers, witnesses, and police officers.
Do not give any statements to insurance companies before speaking with a lawyer.
Bicycle Accident Attorney at Bojat Law Group Offers Free Consultation
At Bojat Law Group, we understand how traumatic a bicycle accident can be. We are not just lawyers – we are people who understand what you are going through. We have experience representing cyclists all over California, and we know how to fight big insurance companies.
We don’t allow you to be treated like a number in the system. Each case is unique, and we give you the personal attention you need at this difficult time.
If you are hit by a car while riding a bicycle, do not wait. There is a time limit for filing a lawsuit in California – usually, you have two years, but the sooner you start, the better. Contact an experienced bicycle accident attorney at Bojat Law Group today for a free consultation. Call us or visit our office – we’re here to help you get the justice you deserve and the compensation you need for your recovery.