California Bicycle Accident Lawyers
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Injured in a bicycle collision? Our compassionate California bicycle accident lawyers are available 24/7 to provide legal assistance. Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation. We will support you through the process of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Cycling in California isn’t just about recreation; it’s also becoming an increasingly popular mode of transportation for many residents when running quick errands and commuting to work. However, California has its challenges despite its appeal as a cycling hotspot. Urban roads are often congested, posing significant risks for cyclists, while rural areas frequently lack the necessary infrastructure to ensure safe riding. These hazards contribute to a notable number of bicycle accidents.
We have handled numerous bicycle accident cases for many years. Our history of success and commitment to delivering positive results have allowed us to obtain $500 million in awarded compensation for our clients, and we can do the same for you.
You or your loved ones don’t have to face the aftermath of a bicycle accident alone. Reach out to our reliable team of bicycle accident lawyers, and let us help you pursue justice and compensation for your injuries and losses.
Why Hire Arash Law Attorneys For Your Bicycle Accident Claim
Our attorneys’ extensive experience, expert knowledge, and unwavering commitment make them the perfect fit for your bicycle accident claim. Our dedicated team of lawyers and experts understands the complexities of the legal process and is committed to protecting your rights.
Choosing the right legal partner is essential for your bicycle accident claim, and our California bicycle accident lawyers can make a significant difference due to:
- Having a complete understanding of bicycle traffic laws.
- Understanding the purpose and functions of all bicycle components.
- Knowing how to get the total replacement value and property damage estimates for your bicycle.
- Negotiating bicycle accident cases with insurance companies.
- Preparing bicycle accident cases for court if required.
- Getting the help of leading bicycle accident reconstruction experts.
- Collaborating with licensed forensic bicycle engineers.
Arash Law is considered one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California. Under the guidance of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., we ensure that every case is handled with the care and expertise it deserves. Contact our bicycle accident lawyers today and discover how we can help you obtain monetary compensation for your injuries and damages.
How Our California Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Assist With Your Case
Our bicycle accident attorneys can assist in getting you the best possible settlement from the at-fault party’s insurer. We’ll guide you throughout the legal process and even represent you in court if necessary. Choosing a skilled lawyer to take on your bicycle accident case unlocks numerous advantages for your specific needs. Here’s what we can do for you:
We’ll negotiate a favorable settlement with the insurance company.
After an accident, you should expect the negligent party’s insurer to reach out to you. They will try to convince you to accept a small amount that only pays for some of your expenses. Our bicycle accident lawyers can help you deal with the insurance company, ensuring you get the maximum compensation.
We’ll keep you updated with the entire legal process.
Our lawyers will update you about your case at each step of your journey, from when you first come to us until your case is finished. Becoming familiar with the steps involved can help reduce some of the stress and uncertainty.
We’ll provide you with quality legal representation.
Many personal injury claims are settled out of court; however, some cases may go to trial. At Arash Law, we approach every case as if it’s headed for trial. Our bicycle accident lawyers meticulously demonstrate the full extent of your injuries to insurance companies and opposing counsel, leaving no detail overlooked. We also present the financial losses from your accident and how your injury has affected your quality of life with clear evidence.
The Types Of Bicycle Accidents We Handle
Bike accidents can occur in many ways, but some happen more often than others. The most common ones that our California bicycle accident lawyers encounter are:
Left-Turn And Right-Turn Accidents
Bicycles are smaller and much slower than other vehicles on the road, making them less noticeable to motorists. Their low profiles make them more prone to collisions with turning vehicles, as drivers may not see them until it’s too late. Right-turn accidents are particularly dangerous due to blind spots that obscure cyclists in the adjacent lane.
These accidents can also happen when drivers misjudge the cyclist’s speed and distance, potentially cutting them off and turning directly in front of them. This can result in a collision, as the cyclist may be unable to stop or swerve in time.
‘Dooring’ Accidents
“Dooring” refers to a collision between a cyclist and a car door that has unexpectedly opened into their path. It’s a common bicycle accident caused by Uber drivers. It typically happens when vehicle occupants fail to check for approaching cyclists before opening the door. Beyond the initial impact, dooring accidents can cause cyclists to swerve suddenly to avoid the door, potentially leading to secondary collisions with other objects or people.
Hit-And-Run Crashes
Hit-and-run bike accidents occur when the drivers leave the scene after striking a cyclist without offering assistance or providing their contact information. These incidents can leave victims injured without immediate recourse to hold the responsible driver accountable. If there’s no one around to help, they might even succumb to their injuries.
According to California law, all drivers involved in accidents must stop and assist, even if they are not at fault. Despite that, some drivers commit hit-and-run offenses, thinking they can get away with it. Our bicycle accident lawyers won’t let them escape accountability.
Sideswipe Collisions
Sideswipe collisions can occur if motorists don’t give enough space or fail to notice the cyclist. These incidents are quite common on streets without dedicated bike lanes. Our bicycle accident attorneys have also seen many sideswipe collisions happen because drivers don’t respect existing bike lanes.
In car accidents, sideswipes are often considered minor. Bicycles are much lighter than cars and offer minimal protection in a collision. A sideswipe can easily push a cyclist to the ground, increasing the risk of cuts, scratches, head injuries, broken bones, and potentially life-threatening internal injuries.
Dog Chase Incidents
Bicyclists may also encounter unexpected hazards, such as stray or unleashed dogs that suddenly chase them. These incidents can cause riders to lose control and crash or collide with other objects.
Can the injured cyclist pursue a claim? In many cases, they may be able to pursue compensation from the dog’s owner if leash laws were violated or if the owner could have prevented the incident. These situations can be complex, and it’s advisable to consult with our California bicycle accident lawyers to explore all your options for seeking compensation.
Bike Vs. Bike Accidents
Collisions between multiple bicycles usually occur due to factors like distracted riding, misjudging distances, or failing to follow traffic rules. Riding too closely to other cyclists increases the risk of accidents, particularly if the leading cyclist stops abruptly. Passing another cyclist without adequate space or warning further increases the risk.
Although bike vs. bike accidents are generally less severe than motor vehicle accidents, they can still result in significant injuries and damages. The risk of serious harm escalates if they lead to secondary collisions involving larger vehicles.
Pedestrian Collisions
Collisions between bicyclists and pedestrians are common on sidewalks due to their proximity and the unpredictability of pedestrian movements. For example, a person might unexpectedly step into the path of an oncoming bicycle, leaving the rider with little time to react.
Food Delivery Accidents
Services like Uber Eats, GrubHub, and others allow delivery riders to use bicycles. Riders may engage in risky behaviors to expedite food delivery, endangering themselves and other road users.
While the circumstances can be similar to those of other collisions, such as bike-on-bike or bike-pedestrian incidents, the legal processes can be more complex. Food delivery accidents often involve not just the rider but also the company they are affiliated with. The involvement of Uber or other major corporations introduces more complicated liability issues. Navigating such cases requires the expertise of bicycle accident lawyers who specialize in the unique legal landscape involving food delivery services.
Electric Bicycle Accidents
Electric bikes have surged in popularity across California in recent years, particularly with the rise of rental services. Although they are classified as bicycles, e-bikes are subject to distinct regulations. For example, electric bikes are divided into three classes based on the level of motor assistance:
- Class 1 e-bikes provide assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and they can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
- Class 2 e-bikes use throttles, allowing the bike to reach speeds of 20 miles per hour.
- Class 3 e-bikes are more powerful and can exceed 20 miles per hour. Due to the higher speed, riders must be at least 16 years old and are required to wear a helmet.
The increased speed and power of electric bikes, especially Class 3, elevate the risk of accidents. If you have been involved in an accident with an e-bike, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers are here to help guide you through the legal process.
If you’re unsure whether you have valid legal grounds for a claim or a lawsuit, consult our California bicycle accident lawyers. Fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form, and we’ll get back to you immediately.
$4,000,000.00
Our client was walking across the street when a distracted driver ran him over. His injuries revolved around his Traumatic Brain Injury, but the defense simply didn’t want to pay for it. After showing our knowledge and depth of brain injuries, that quickly changed, and the case was resolved weeks before trial. Our co-counselor, Omid Razi, masterfully worked up the case, and his expertise and teamwork led to justice for an amazing client.– BRIAN BEECHER
Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents occur due to:
- Speeding Drivers — Excessive speed can impair a driver’s ability to control their vehicle, increasing the risk of collisions with bicycles. Additionally, a speeding car may startle a cyclist, leading to a loss of control and a potential crash.
- Drunk Drivers — Alcohol or drug consumption impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Impaired drivers are more likely to disregard traffic signals, swerve into bike lanes, or fail to yield to cyclists, leading to serious accidents.
- Reckless Motorists — Overtaking carelessly, failing to use turn signals, distracted driving, wrong-way driving, and not checking blind spots can lead to accidents. Additionally, driving in designated bike lanes is dangerous.
- Aggressive Drivers— Aggression leads to dangerous driving behaviors, such as intentionally cutting off or forcing riders off the road, causing them to get knocked off their bikes.
- Inadequate Infrastructure — The lack of designated bike lanes, unsafe road design, and poorly maintained roads contribute to bicycle and motor vehicle accidents.
- Bad Weather — Rain and snow can make roads slippery, putting cyclists and other motorists at risk. Strong winds can also cause a bicycle to topple over, while hail can injure cyclists and cause them to lose balance.
- Mechanical Defects — Faulty brakes, tires, and other mechanical issues can lead to bicycle accidents.
- Construction Zones — Construction sites present many hazards for road users, including debris and uneven surfaces. They could also force cyclists to make unsafe detours.
No matter the cause, our California bicycle accident lawyers can determine whether negligence is involved. Call us now at (888) 488-1391 so we can review your case for free.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents, even minor ones, have a higher likelihood of causing injuries due to the lack of protection that bikes provide. After falling or colliding with other objects, cyclists are at risk of sustaining the following injuries:
- Road rash
- Cuts and lacerations
- Injuries to the face
- Dental injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Amputation
- Head trauma
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck injuries
If you’ve sustained any of these injuries, our bicycle accident attorneys can connect you with top medical specialists in California who can thoroughly assess your condition. This comprehensive medical evaluation will ensure all your injuries are documented and treated properly.
Understanding Bicycle Laws In California
While bicycles mostly follow the standard traffic laws, they are also subject to a few unique rules. Here’s an overview, according to California’s Driver Handbook and road rules for bicyclists:
Helmet Laws
Note that even if you’re the most careful rider, you are still at risk due to the negligence of others. If an accident occurs, your clothes and safety gear are the only things protecting you. Bicyclists over the age of 18 are not legally required to wear helmets. However, our bicycle accident attorneys strongly recommend it based on the severe injuries we’ve seen in victims who didn’t. This protective gear helps prevent severe injuries to the head in the event of a crash or fall.
Traffic Laws
Cyclists must be mindful of and adhere to the same traffic regulations as other road users. They must stop at red lights, yield at stop signs, and follow the direction of traffic. Cyclists should ride on the right-hand side of the road if they are not traveling at the same speed as vehicles. If they want to change lanes or turn, they must give a signal.
Motorists also have specific obligations toward cyclists to ensure their safety and smooth integration on the road. It is important for drivers to always check their blind spots and to use their mirrors before changing lanes or turning to avoid colliding with cyclists who may be in their path.
Right-Of-Way Laws
In California, cyclists often face unfair challenges at intersections and crosswalks due to unclear right-of-way regulations. In general, they do not automatically have the right of way, especially when pedestrians are involved. Although the law requires cyclists to stop in front of a crosswalk to avoid obstructing pedestrians and improve visibility, this can put the cyclist in a difficult position.
It is a legal requirement that drivers yield to bicyclists in the bike lane when approaching an intersection before making a right turn. At crosswalks and intersections, it is the duty of bicyclists to yield to pedestrians. Both motorists and cyclists must be cautious at all times to prevent accidents.
Bike Lanes
Cyclists must use designated bike lanes whenever available, as these lanes provide a safer environment for riding. However, cyclists may deviate from the bike lane to avoid hazards or obstacles, as long as it can be done safely and legally. For example, if the bike lane is blocked by debris or construction, cyclists may temporarily leave the lane to navigate the obstruction. Many motorists expect cyclists to ride in bike lanes or as close to the curb as possible at all times. However, in certain cases, riders have the right to “take the lane” or ride in the middle of it. Even if the cyclist is moving slower than traffic, taking the lane is legal in these situations:
- Passing pedestrians, other cyclists, cars, or obstructions on the bike lane.
- Preparing to make a left turn at an intersection.
- Passing through a narrow lane.
- Approaching a right turn.
If there is no bike lane, cyclists must keep close to the right-hand curb or edge of the road. This minimizes the risk of collisions with vehicles traveling in the adjacent lane.
Three Feet For Safety Act
California’s Three Feet for Safety Act requires motorists to maintain a minimum distance of three feet when passing or overtaking bicycles. This clearance is approximately the width of a car’s passenger-side door, giving cyclists enough space to ride safely. What if there’s insufficient space to comply with this rule due to traffic or roadway conditions? The law says drivers should slow down and pass only when it would not endanger the bicyclist’s safety.
If drivers follow this mandate, they can help reduce the risk of sideswipes and other accidents. Likewise, cyclists should stick to the rules that apply to them to protect themselves and avoid the risk of colliding with other vehicles while riding.
Rules About Visibility
Bicycles have small profiles that can be difficult to notice, especially at night. California law requires bikes to be installed with the following:
- A front white light that is visible from a distance of 300 feet.
- A red reflector in the back that can be seen from a distance of 500 feet or a rear red light that has a built-in reflector that can be seen from 500 feet away.
- Reflectors on each pedal or the bicyclist’s shoes or ankles (can be white or yellow) that are visible from a distance of 200 feet.
- Wheel reflectors (white or yellow on the front, red on the rear) or reflectorized tires.
Cities and counties can implement additional rules beyond these existing regulations. Always check local laws before going for a ride with your bike. Knowing your rights and boundaries can help you stay safe. If you get into an accident, understanding these laws can help you maintain your legal rights afterward. In any case, our California bicycle accident lawyers are here to advocate for you. We will help you understand what you’re entitled to.
Compensation Bicycle Accident Victims Can Recover
Our lawyers for bike accidents can help you claim different types of damages from the at-fault parties.
Economic Damages
Damages for economic losses include expenses incurred as a result of the accident, including:
- Medical bills.
- Lost wages due to inability to work.
- Lost earning capacity.
- Cost of property repair or replacement.
To prove economic damages, you can provide any document representing the exact value of your losses. Examples include receipts, pay stubs, bills, and invoices.
Non-Economic Damages
A bicycle crash can lead to intangible losses that also deserve monetary compensation. Some examples are:
- Pain And Suffering — Including physical pain and emotional and mental distress.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life — Reduced capability to engage in previous lifestyle, hobbies, and daily functions.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder — Excessive fear or anxiety related to the incident.
- Loss of Consortium — The loss of a partner’s companionship, including financial assistance, affection, sex, and caregiving capabilities.
The severity of non-economic damages cannot be quantified as easily as physical injury and property damage.
Exploring Bicycle Injury Coverage Within Your Insurance Policy
In a bicycle accident, the at-fault party’s insurance is primarily responsible for providing compensation. If their insurance is insufficient, the biker’s (victim’s) insurance may step in. Here’s a breakdown:
- Auto Insurance — If the at-fault party’s insurance is insufficient, your auto insurance might cover your injuries from a bicycle accident. The California tort system could provide additional Med-Pay coverage, usually up to $2,000 for basic coverage and up to $5,000 for standard coverage. Legal representation is crucial for claims involving Uninsured Motorists (UM), given the strict policy regulations and intricate details.
- Health Insurance — Your health insurance can cover medical expenses related to your bicycle injury, including doctor visits, medications, lab tests, hospital stays, and medical equipment. This can help alleviate the financial burden if the at-fault party’s insurance falls short.
- Home Or Renters Insurance — If your bike is covered under your home or renter’s insurance policy, you can claim repair or replacement costs for your bicycle. This can be particularly useful if the at-fault party’s insurance does not fully cover your losses.
All types of insurance claims can be complicated, especially since providers often aim to minimize payouts. Instead of dealing with these processes on your own, rely on our bicycle accident lawyers for help. Our team of skilled attorneys can help you determine and pursue all avenues for compensation, ensuring you get what you need to recover fully.
Bicycle Insurance Claims Vs Personal Injury Lawsuits
An insurance claim is an out-of-court remedy that might turn into a personal injury lawsuit if the insurer rejects your initial claim. If a car hits you while you’re on your bike, proving the driver was at fault is essential. Insurance companies might delay, minimize, or deny claims, making the process difficult. If they are unreasonable, you may need to seek compensation through the court system.
An injury lawsuit involves a more structured process with a judge or jury and can potentially result in higher compensation than insurance claims. This involves sharing and reviewing evidence, conducting depositions, and negotiating further with insurance companies. Expert California bicycle accident lawyers, can navigate these complexities, with filing a lawsuit usually being the last resort if insurance companies won’t agree to a reasonable settlement.
By understanding these options, you can ensure all avenues for compensation are pursued, maximizing your chances for a full recovery.
Potential Liable Parties In A Bike Accident
Anyone and everyone who contributed to the accident can share liability, even if they were not directly involved. Fault will be assigned based on the circumstances of the accident and the level of negligence displayed by each party, which can include:
- Drivers — The driver of the vehicle involved in the accident.
- Driver’s Employer — If the driver was working for a company at the time of the accident, the employer may also be held liable.
- Government Agencies — Government agencies may be responsible if they fail to maintain roads, traffic signals, or other infrastructure.
- Pedestrians — Pedestrians can be liable if they contributed to the accident, such as by crossing the street illegally or unexpectedly.
- Other Cyclists — Other cyclists on the road may be liable if they caused or contributed to the accident.
- Construction Companies And Contractors — These parties may be liable if their work created a dangerous condition that led to the accident.
In many cases, determining liability is not as straightforward as it looks, even if the case seems clear-cut. The assistance of skilled California bicycle accident lawyers is instrumental in proving the negligence of the responsible parties.
How Lawyers Identify Who Is At Fault For A Bike Accident
Our bicycle accident lawyers will determine who is at fault by analyzing the circumstances of the accident and gathering evidence to guide us in the right direction. We follow a detailed process to ensure we get to the truth:
- Once we shake on it, we immediately get to work, gathering facts to form a clear picture of what happened and how it happened.
- We work closely with accident reconstructionists, who help us understand the dynamics of the crash, including the point of impact, vehicle speeds, and the positioning of cyclists.
- Our team will visit the site to examine factors like road conditions, signage, and potential hazards that might have contributed to the accident.
- Our bicycle accident attorneys will analyze every aspect, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
- We interview witnesses to gather more information about the accident, potentially helping us prove negligence or identify other liable parties.
- Our attorneys conduct depositions, using targeted questions to get to the truth. We ask specific, pointed questions to clarify details and establish facts.
By following these steps, our bicycle accident attorneys gain a comprehensive understanding of the case and can accurately identify liability. This thorough approach enables us to develop a winning strategy to prove the other party’s fault, helping us secure maximum compensation on your behalf.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable Through Legal Action
Demonstrating negligence in bicycle accidents is vital for legal proceedings and seeking compensation. Here are crucial components for establishing negligence in bike accidents in California:
- Duty Of Care — The driver has a legal duty to exercise caution and drive safely.
- Breach Of Duty — The driver’s actions or lack of action breached the duty of care.
- Causation — The driver’s breach of duty directly caused the bicycle accident.
- Damages — The cyclist suffered injuries or damages in the accident.
Injury cases are won by establishing negligence. The components listed above may look straightforward, but the process can quickly get complicated. You need reliable bicycle accident lawyers who can effectively demonstrate the other party’s negligence. We investigate and gather evidence showing how the other party is responsible for our client’s injury.
The proven track record of Arash Khorsandi, Esq. and our team at Arash Law signifies our unwavering commitment to holding liable parties accountable. We’ve won thousands of cases through our dedication and expertise. With some of the best bicycle accident attorneys on your side, you can win your case, too. By hiring us, you increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to get started.
Time Limits For Bicycle Accident Claims In California
The statute of limitations, or how long the victims have to initiate personal injury claims after a bicycle accident, is usually two years from the accident date in California. However, if the injury is not discovered immediately, the two-year period will start to run from the discovery date.
You must file your claim within this timeframe to avoid losing your right to seek compensation. However, the statute of limitations has some exceptions. It can be challenging to figure out your exact deadlines without talking to a personal injury lawyer. Reach out to our bicycle accident lawyers in California to determine the time limits for your case.
What To Do After A Bike Accident
No one knows when a bicycle accident might occur, but it’s important to be prepared for it. Follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- If possible, you should carefully move to a safe place near the accident site to prevent further damage. However, if the movement aggravates your injuries, it is better to stay put and wait for help.
- Call 911 for help. Describe what happened in detail and where, your injuries, the vehicle that hit you, and anything else the dispatcher should know about your accident.
- As soon as the emergency responders arrive, get yourself checked. They can administer first aid and assess you for further injuries.
- Cooperate with law enforcement as soon as they arrive at your location. They will make an official report of your incident. Let them know what you know about the accident and its consequences.
- If you are able, take photos or videos for evidence. Include your injuries, your bike, other vehicles involved, any traffic signs, road conditions, and other relevant points of interest in your documentation.
- Seek immediate medical attention at a nearby hospital or emergency room. A full workup can completely rule out any injuries that the paramedics were not able to detect or treat primarily.
- Report the accident to your insurance provider. Be as detailed as you can in your account, but only focus on the objective facts. Do not say “sorry” or admit fault.
- Consult with skilled California bicycle accident lawyers by calling (888) 488-1391. It is important to get legal advice as soon as possible after the accident. They can help you file a personal injury claim so you can recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, damage to property, and more.
Statistics About Bicycle Accidents In California
Previously, bike fatalities in California had been because of factors like distracted driving, the increasing number of bikes on the road, and a shift toward the use of SUVs. The larger size and weight of SUVs and trucks make them more likely to cause fatal injuries in collisions with cyclists compared to smaller passenger vehicles.
However, recent data shows a notable decline in fatalities, from 199 in 2022 to 134 in 2023. This improvement suggests that bicycle safety initiatives, such as Go Safely, California, and Bicycle Safety Stop, have a positive impact. Still, the data remains concerning because they’re not just numbers; they represent lives deeply affected or tragically lost.
We are committed to supporting bike accident victims, helping them secure the justice and compensation they need for their recovery.
Bicycle Accident Victims Also Ask:
When Is The Right Time To File A Bicycle Accident Claim?
Ideally, you should initiate a claim as soon as possible. It not only helps you comply with the deadlines, but it also makes your claim stronger. By starting the process right away, your bicycle accident lawyers can gather crucial evidence and interview witnesses while the details are still fresh and accessible.
However, in practice, filing a claim happens later in the process. Negotiations with insurance companies or the negligent party typically start once the injured person is well into their recovery. Your bicycle accident attorneys may even recommend waiting until the full extent of your injuries and losses are clear before proceeding with the claim.
For serious injuries requiring extensive surgery or multiple follow-ups, proceedings are paused until a significant portion of the medical treatment is completed. This can include physical therapy, reconstructive surgery, or psychological counseling. Eventually, medical professionals may determine that no further additional treatment is needed. In legal terms, this stage is known as reaching the point of maximum medical improvement. Once this is achieved, the claims process can move forward.
Nevertheless, you should consult a bicycle accident lawyer early on. Doing so allows you to explore your options and get valuable legal advice, helping the process move much more smoothly.
A Roadway Defect Caused My Accident. Do I Have A Valid Case?
You might have a valid case if the roadway defect that caused your accident resulted from someone else’s negligence. While uneven surfaces, pavement cracks, potholes, and other hazards often occur naturally due to daily traffic, negligence can come into play if:
- The party responsible for maintaining the road neglected their duties, allowing these hazards to develop.
- They knew or should have known about these hazards and failed to address them within a reasonable timeframe.
There are many other scenarios where you can hold a party responsible for a crash caused by dangerous road conditions. In our examples above, the government entity overseeing the maintenance can be held accountable. However, not all cases have valid legal grounds. As a road user, you are still expected to exercise due care, given the conditions.
The best way to know whether you have a valid claim is by consulting bicycle accident lawyers in California. We will look at the details of your case to see if there’s an element of negligence. If so, we can start the process.
Can Another Person Be Liable For My Bicycle Accident, Even If We Didn’t Collide With Each Other?
Yes, you can sue another person if their negligent actions caused you to take evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision, leading to your injuries. The same process applies — you have to prove they were negligent.
Do I Need A Bicycle Accident Attorney If The Police Report States I’m Not At Fault?
Although police reports contain useful information, they are rarely admissible in court. Meaning we cannot use them as evidence to prove you were not at fault. Furthermore, they are not 100% accurate. Our California personal injury attorneys have successfully won cases even when the police report incorrectly stated our clients were at fault.
We highly recommend getting an attorney for your bicycle accident case. You need a legal team that can effectively gather evidence supporting your claim and showing how the other party is at fault for the accident. Furthermore, bicycle accident lawyers protect your claim from insurance companies. No matter what the police reports say, they will try to pin the blame on you as much as possible. The more they can minimize their liability, the less they have to pay you.
How Can I Find A Good Bike Accident Lawyer Near Me?
Your choice of bicycle accident lawyers can make or break your case. Here are some tips to find the best team for you:
- Use the State Bar’s online certified specialist directory to find lawyers specializing in personal injury.
- Seek referrals from friends, family, and other people you trust to recommend a bicycle accident lawyer.
- Google “best bike accident attorneys near me” to find lawyers and law firms in your area.
- Contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391. Our lawyers, who specialize in bicycle accident cases, bring unparalleled dedication and expertise to every case. We have an unwavering commitment to securing the most favorable outcome for you.
Should I Talk To The Insurance Company Before An Attorney?
Do not speak with an adjuster without consulting our bicycle accident lawyers first. They are fishing for information they can use against you. They will attempt to manipulate you or feed you lies, especially early in the process when you might have little or no idea about your rights and the facts of your case.
Our California bicycle accident attorneys can help you understand your rights at the onset. We will give you an estimate of the true value of your case so insurance companies won’t be able to lowball you or make you believe you deserve less.
If they contact you, refer them to our office. Tell them we will handle all communications moving forward. Here are some other tips on how to deal with insurance companies:
- Don’t agree to recorded statements. You can decline, even if they say it’s a legal requirement (it’s not).
- Never sign any document without your lawyers’ go signal. Have them review it first.
- Don’t accept any settlement offers without going through them with your lawyers.
What Is The Value Of My Bicycle Accident Claim?
Bicycle accident claims vary depending on several factors, such as:
- The extent of your injuries.
- The costs of current and future. medical treatments.
- Your lost wages.
- Reimbursement for the damage to your vehicle and other personal property.
We will also consider how the accident or injury has interfered with your life, activities, and abilities. Comparative negligence is another factor that can affect the value of your bicycle accident case. If you share fault, no matter how little, the money you’re owed will be reduced accordingly.
Will My Bicycle Accident Case Go To Trial?
Not all cases go to court. Most claims are settled through out-of-court negotiations, avoiding the need for a lengthy trial. Still, our bicycle accident attorneys might suggest going this route if the insurance companies refuse to offer a fair amount or if there are major disputes over liability and damages.
Ultimately, whether to go to trial or not is your call. Our bicycle accident attorneys will thoroughly discuss all available options to help you make an informed decision. We will provide insight into the most effective strategy to obtain the best outcome.
How Long Will My Bicycle Accident Case Take?
There’s no telling how long each case will take. Many factors can either shorten or lengthen the process. While some cases we handle only take a few months to settle, complex cases and those that proceed to court can take a couple of years.
Who Is Allowed To Seek Compensation In A Bicycle Accident?
Anyone injured in a bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence has the right to seek compensation, regardless of age, gender, or residency status. Minors can have a legal guardian file a claim on their behalf, and individuals with legal incapacity can be represented by someone with a Power of Attorney (POA).
The right to seek compensation applies to all, including undocumented immigrants. Using someone’s residency status against them in a civil case is illegal. However, this won’t stop other parties from trying to use it to their advantage. Nonetheless, our bicycle accident attorneys are fully prepared for such scenarios. We will protect your rights to privacy during the process, especially in the discovery phase and depositions.
Can I File A Claim If I Don’t Speak English?
You don’t have to worry about speaking in English during trials or consultations. Our personal injury law firm has a multilingual staff who can communicate with you clearly in the language you’re most comfortable with. We will also help you get court-licensed interpreters who can accurately convey your story and emotions in depositions and trials. Rest assured that our bicycle accident attorneys will ensure that language barriers do not prevent you from exercising your rights.
Contact The Bicycle Accident Lawyers California Trusts The Most
The path to recovery after a bicycle accident extends beyond physical healing — it involves restoring every aspect of your life impacted by the accident, including your emotional, financial, and mental well-being. Ensuring you are made whole again requires addressing all these elements, and our bicycle accident lawyers have the legal expertise to achieve that for you. Under the guidance of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., we are here to support you through every challenge your case may present.
Don’t take on this journey alone — let our bicycle accident attorneys be your trusted advocates as you pedal towards a brighter future. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation, and let’s ride the road to recovery together!
We are happy to consult with you at your home, office, or anywhere in the state. Our offices are conveniently located throughout California, including Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Diego, San Jose, Fresno, Oakland, Orange County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County.
