San Francisco Bicycle Accident Lawyers
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Our San Francisco Bicycle Accident Lawyers Will Get You What You’re Owed
Due to the lack of adequate protection, bicyclists are vulnerable to serious injuries or death when struck by larger, more powerful vehicles on the road. If you or someone you love has been injured in a bike accident, you have the right to file a claim or lawsuit against those responsible. Our San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers are dedicated to obtaining the maximum compensation you’re owed. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391 for expert legal assistance.
San Francisco is known as a cultural, financial, and commercial center in Northern California. As of 2023, the United States Census Bureau reported a population of 808,988, making it the second most densely populated city in the United States.
With its mild weather, San Francisco offers favorable conditions for cycling. The combination of stunning scenery and lively public spaces makes it a pleasurable experience, so it’s no wonder that cycling is a popular choice for both exercise and transportation. Despite these advantages, safety remains a concern for cyclists. Traffic congestion and driver negligence are major factors behind bike accidents. Even streets with dedicated bike lanes, like Valencia Street, can be risky.
Bicycle accidents often happen when motorists swerve out of the lane or are not paying attention. They can also occur when vehicles make turns without checking for cyclists crossing their paths. Rideshare drivers and delivery vans often use bike lanes to complete tasks. When these parties act negligently, unsuspecting bicyclists may find themselves in dangerous situations.
The San Francisco bicycle accident attorneys at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., help victims and their families understand their legal rights and take necessary actions. Our goal is to recover the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Benefits Of Hiring Good San Francisco Bicycle Accident Lawyers
After getting into a bicycle accident in San Francisco, you’re probably wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer to that is a big yes. Getting compensation is a complex process. You want to put yourself in the best position possible. To do this, you will want a personal injury attorney who focuses on and has experience with bicycle accidents. These cases are different from collisions involving two motor vehicles.
The insurance coverage and process will also be different for bike accidents. Injuries and medical treatments are often more severe than in other collisions. When a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer represents you, everything changes. We understand your case and any applicable laws, policies, and nuances.
If you have a lawyer who doesn’t understand these complexities, you may have a less-than-favorable result. Our San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers take pride in staying updated with all new and relevant bike laws. We will do everything we can to put clients in a prime position to recover compensation.
We also offer our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only collect legal fees if we win your case. If you want to protect your rights after a serious bicycle accident, reach out to our personal injury lawyers as soon as possible.
We take cases involving minors very seriously, and they are near and dear to our hearts. As a society we must place the highest value on our children and their safety!– ARASH KHORSANDI
Why Choose Our Bicycle Accident Attorneys For Your Personal Injury Case
At Arash Law, we understand that every bicycle accident is unique. That’s why we provide personalized and meticulous attention to each case. We build strong client relationships and treat your situation with the utmost importance it deserves. Our success record speaks for itself – we’re focused on achieving the best possible outcome for you at every stage.
Here’s what you can expect from us:
- We’ll give you a straightforward assessment of your case without inflating its value to win you over.
- We prioritize keeping you informed by promptly responding to your calls and emails.
- We involve you in key decisions and work together to find the best resolution for your case.
- We aggressively negotiate with insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
- We create a detailed demand letter to maximize your chances of a successful settlement.
- We work with your medical providers to potentially lower your bills or avoid upfront payments through a medical lien.
Our bicycle accident attorneys in San Francisco are legal experts who are deeply compassionate about the physical and emotional challenges you’re facing. We understand the urgency of your situation and provide immediate support to ensure your case receives the prompt attention it needs. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 to consult with one of our injury lawyers for free.
The Most Dangerous Streets For Cyclists In San Francisco
Mission Street
When you think of bicycle accidents, Mission Street is ground zero. San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) reports that bicycle traffic has increased by 75% within the last decade. This congestion can sadly result in crashes. While it is significant that more people are using bikes, the roads were not prepared for this influx.
Market Street
This is no surprise as this street has been the most dangerous in the city for many years. Officials have made improvements to the area in an attempt to decrease pedestrian and cyclist accidents. However, it doesn’t seem these improvements have made an impact since it is still a dangerous area. Safety improvements include raised bicycle lanes and lane separators for bicycles.
Valencia Street
This street has a problem similar to Mission Street. It draws cyclists to the area, increasing congestion and foot traffic. The road feels safe because it is flat and marked for bicycles. Improvements are being made, but bicycle accidents are still a significant problem.
Polk Street
This is the fourth most dangerous street in San Francisco for bicyclists. It is the main north-south throughway leading into the heart of the city. The city is attempting to alleviate the congestion and make the road safer. Even so, traffic accidents are still a daily occurrence on Polk.
While these are the most dangerous streets in San Francisco, you can be in an accident anywhere around the city. Good San Francisco bicycle accident attorneys from Arash Law, led by famous attorney Arash Khorsandi, Esq., handle cases involving accidents on these and other streets. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule an initial consultation.
Dangerous Intersections For Bicyclists In San Francisco
While there are several dangerous streets for cyclists, there are also intersections you should be wary of. One of the most common places that bicycle accidents happen is at intersections. There are many reasons they happen, often due to inattentive drivers.
The following are the most dangerous intersections for bicyclists in San Francisco:
- Potrero Ave and 16th Street: This intersection is in the busy area of Mission District. It has nine traffic lanes, making it challenging to cross.
- South Van Ness Ave and Mission Street: This intersection is dangerous because it is so large. It has 17 lanes of traffic. There are only seven crosswalks, and they all have various risks.
- Octavia Boulevard and Market Street: This intersection converges into an on-ramp for the 101 freeway. Annually, it sees dozens of crashes.
Any intersection is dangerous for bicyclists. Drivers often rush to make turns or fly through the intersection. They are not paying attention to pedestrians and bicyclists waiting their turn to cross. Motorists should share the road with everyone, including cyclists and pedestrians. If you suffer injuries from bicycle accidents at these or other intersections, speak to a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer from Arash Law.
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Relevant Bicycle Laws In California
While riders must adhere to the same laws as other motorists, there are specific bike laws. Everyone is responsible for learning the rules that can apply to their circumstances. If you are unsure about a law, it would be in your best interest to research it.
The following are some general California biking laws. You can find these and others in the California Driver Handbook:
Stay On The Street
Anyone under 13 can use the sidewalk to ride their bike. It is illegal for anyone over this age to use the sidewalk. Instead, you may use bike lanes and share the road. As a rule of thumb, stay as far off the right side of the road as possible. You should also ride with the flow of traffic.
Wear A Helmet
Any person under 18 is legally required to wear a bicycle helmet at all times. While you are not required to wear a helmet as an adult, it is advisable. It shows responsibility and can help curve injury severity. Different cities may have ordinances that require helmet use regardless of age. Do some research if riding elsewhere.
Maintain Control Of Your Bike
You should operate a bike that is the right size for your body, as this will better equip you to maneuver in an emergency. Ensure you adjust your seat and handlebars before riding so you are comfortable. You should also maintain your bike to ensure it is in good working order.
Do Not Operate Under The Influence
Refrain from riding your bike under the influence of drugs and alcohol. It is illegal to operate a bike while intoxicated. If caught, you may face fines and suspended driving privileges.
Obey Right Of Way Laws
When entering a crosswalk, you must obey right-of-way laws. There are usually crosswalks or traffic signals that will inform you when it is safe to cross. If you disobey these signals, you could be found 100% responsible for the collision.
You should check the driving laws for your city and county. Knowing and obeying these laws can also help your bicycle accident lawyer in San Francisco build a successful claim. Even ignoring or breaking one law can lower your compensation claim. Our bicycle accident lawyers can explain how bike laws affect your compensation recovery.
Most Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents
Understanding why bicycle crashes occur can help you avoid them, even if the motorist is entirely at fault. Among the most common causes of bike crashes in San Francisco are:
- Speeding — Like automobile accidents, speeding is a major culprit in bicycle crashes. Drivers exceeding the speed limit have less reaction time when stopping safely upon encountering a cyclist.
- Distracted Driving — Whether it’s phones, passengers, or anything else taking their attention, distracted drivers pose a serious threat to cyclists sharing the road.
- Right-Of-Way Violations — Cyclists are legally considered vehicles in California. Unfortunately, drivers often fail to yield the right of way to them as they would to other motorists.
- Poor Road Conditions — Potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces often present a greater danger to cyclists than drivers. In many cases, these hazards are the responsibility of government entities tasked with road maintenance.
- Impaired Driving — Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly reduces a driver’s ability to detect cyclists on the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
Remember, you have the right to cycle safely. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in San Francisco, don’t hesitate to contact our attorneys immediately.
Injuries You May Suffer After A Bicycle Accident
The size difference between a bicycle and a car makes bicyclists more susceptible to sustaining injuries in an accident. Often, collisions are caused by driver error or negligence, but roadway defects can also be a factor. Although most cyclists wear helmets and other protective gear to prevent serious injuries, they are still vulnerable.
The most common injuries bicycle accident victims suffer include:
Head And Brain Injuries
Bicyclists can suffer brain injuries in bicycle accidents. This can be a concussion, contusions, or skull fractures. Internal hemorrhaging is also possible when someone strikes their head on an object or the ground. A traumatic brain injury can also lead to complications such as dizziness, headaches, confusion, memory loss, nausea, cognitive impairments, and behavioral changes.
Chest Injuries
The chest contains several vital organs, making it susceptible to various injuries. Cyclists can suffer from rib fractures, as well as injuries to the shoulder, lung, and collarbone. These types of injuries are more likely when a car runs over a cyclist. Chest injuries can be fatal and may include internal damage such as a ruptured spleen, hernia, bowel contusion, or pancreatic trauma.
Face And Eye Injuries
If you fall and hit your face, you may suffer facial damage. This can happen when your face hits the road, cement, or a vehicle. Common facial injuries include bone fractures, dental fractures, contusions, and foreign objects inside your eyes. These injuries can require surgeries. They can leave you with permanent scarring or impairment. You could lose your eyesight depending on the severity of the injury.
Other Bodily Injuries
Many parts of your body can be injured in an accident. Common injuries occur in the wrist, hand, arms, and legs. You can suffer dislocations, contusions, strains, and lacerations. If you are thrown off your bike, you can suffer road rash and severe abrasions.
You have much less protection when riding a bike than others on the road. As a cyclist, you are relatively unprotected; any of these injuries can result in exhaustive medical bills. Injury victims may have extended hospital stays, rehabilitation, and surgery. You could be left with a permanent disability in some instances. Head and brain injuries often cause permanent impairments like loss of motor function and cognitive disabilities.
While recovering from your injuries, you will also be confronted by the insurance company trying to settle your claim. They may send you a low offer that does not cover your future losses. Do not let the insurance company take advantage of you in a vulnerable state. Instead, speak to our San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers. We will handle the insurance process and ensure you get the medical attention you need for your injuries.
Compensation Available For Bicycle Accident Victims
A bicycle claim in San Francisco aims to get you payment that makes you whole. This can be difficult if you are suffering from a permanent disability. You may have more options for compensation than you initially thought.
When another person’s negligence causes your injury, you may recover compensation for the following:
- All medical expenses from the bicycle crash now and in the future
- Pain and suffering
- Lost income and benefits
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Physical therapy and in-home care costs
- Home or vehicle modifications for permanent disability
In some cases, you could qualify for punitive damages. These are awarded by the court when gross negligence or intentional actions are involved. You should speak to a San Francisco bicycle accident attorney to determine your case worth and applicable damages. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How Is Fault Determined In Bicycle Accidents?
Determining fault is one of the most significant aspects of a bicycle accident claim. However, negligence is more complex than you may think. The first part of determining fault is assessing the collision scene and then evaluating the duties of each party in the crash. Our bicycle accident lawyers in San Francisco will review the traffic controls, roadway surface, and weather when looking at the scene.
A negligent motorist is most likely to be blamed for a bicycle accident. However, they often claim that the bicyclist came out of nowhere and they did not see them. They will find many defenses to throw in your face. Usually, when a driver is throwing these accusations, it is to deflect from their actions.
Some of the things that can cause bicycle accidents include:
- Roadway defects and debris
- Vehicles making left turns
- Dooring incidents on the driver’s or passenger’s side
- A vehicle overtaking a bicyclist
- Rear-ended by a vehicle
- Vehicles making right turns
- Sideswipe incidents
California law considers bicycles as vehicles, which means they must also adhere to various vehicle codes. Riders have similar responsibilities as passenger vehicles, including obeying traffic signals and the right of way. The law also protects bicycle riders who follow the law.
Our client suffered serious injuries after he was run over by a speeding vehicle. Aside from achieving a monumental financial recovery, our firm was able to secure the best medical care and treatment to ensure that he recovered from his injuries with the best medical team in the nation. We are happy to deliver closure and peace to a nice family.– BRIAN BEECHER
How Can Comparative Negligence Impact My Bicycle Accident Case?
When assessing liability and negligence, you must consider comparative negligence and its impact on your case. Under this law, when someone contributes to a collision, they can still be eligible for compensation. A bicyclist who contributed to the crash can recover compensation minus their percentage of fault. As a pure comparative negligence state, California allows you to recover compensation even if you were 99% at fault. You would take home 1% of the total case worth.
While you have these legal protections, you can still find it challenging to recover the compensation you deserve. If the insurance company denies your claim, you can take the next step and go to the civil courts. Retaining a San Francisco bicycle accident attorney is the best way to protect yourself. Legal representation can often increase your chances and the compensation amount. Discuss how comparative negligence can apply to your case with us today. Bicycle Accident Victims Have Legal Rights
In a bicycle accident, you may be unaware of your rights. Knowing your rights is an invaluable resource for getting the compensation you deserve. The most important law you should familiarize yourself with is California Vehicle Code 21200. This law states that all cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.
First, you are responsible for going with traffic, obeying traffic signs, and obeying the right of way. Motorists will also have to follow these laws when interacting with cyclists. If a motorist disrespects your right to the road, they are liable for any injuries you incur, and you may have the right to pursue compensation from their insurer. When you suffer an injury from someone else’s wrongdoing, our San Francisco bicycle accident attorneys will fight to protect your rights and secure a monetary award.
As a bicyclist in San Francisco, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Our personal injury attorneys specializing in bicycle accidents can help you understand these rights. We will thoroughly investigate your accident and identify those responsible. If your rights have been violated, we will strive to hold the negligent parties accountable.
Steps You Should Take Following A Bicycle Accident In San Francisco
After a bicycle accident, you might be uncertain about the necessary steps to take. Many individuals have questions about medical expenses, the legal process, and their future. A major worry is whether you can obtain compensation for your injuries.
Before a San Francisco bicycle accident attorney addresses your specific questions, here are some actions you can take:
- Get A Police Report: This may sound obvious, but many accident victims are unsure how to get a police report. It is one of the most essential steps for your injury claim. Calling the police will take care of reporting the accident. They can also inform you on how to obtain the official report, while hiring an injury lawyer can help expedite the process.
- Seek Medical Attention: Another crucial aspect of an injury claim is to get medical attention. This serves two purposes.: treating your injuries and creating a paper trail linking your injury to the bicycle accident. Delaying medical attention can make the insurance company take your claim less seriously. Also, keep copies of all your medical records and documents.
- Exchange Information With The Driver: If possible, you should get the driver’s information. You will need their name, address, phone number, and driver’s license. Most importantly, get their insurance information. This information may be included in the police report, but you should try your best to get it yourself.
- Take Pictures: You should take pictures of the license plate numbers, location, traffic conditions, weather, and vehicle damage. You should also photograph your bike damage and visible injuries.
- Get Witness Information: If there are any witnesses to the accident, you should gather their contact information. Some witnesses may provide some insight into the collision. Others may have seen the entire wreck. Unfortunately, some witnesses may leave the scene before authorities arrive. Their contact information can be an invaluable resource for your insurance claim.
- Refrain From Talking To The Insurance Company: Insurance companies act quickly, and once they see a police report, they will begin to take action. They will try to contact you as soon as they review the report. When they do, you should tell them you are in the process of retaining an attorney and not provide any further information.
How To Deal With Insurance Companies
When speaking to the insurance company, remember they are trained to reduce costs. They will trick you into saying things that can hurt your case and help them. They don’t need half of the information they are asking for. The best thing to do is to inform them you have legal representation and provide them with the information for your San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer.
Insurance companies want to settle claims quickly and with the least resources. They don’t want to go through a lengthy court process. This may work for small claims. However, your case worth and injury severity will determine how far your case should go.
The best thing to do after a bike accident is to speak to the San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers from Arash Law. We are here to assist you during this confusing and tumultuous process. Even if you do not need a lengthy legal claim, we can provide crucial advice for your circumstances.
Deadlines For Filing Claims
Generally, you will have two years to file a bicycle accident claim in San Francisco and the rest of California. The timeline begins on the day of the accident. While this is a general deadline, various factors can shorten or lengthen the time you have. For example, in cases involving a government entity, the statute of limitations goes down to six months. In those instances, you will have little time to take action. Since deadlines can vary, it is in your best interest to speak to a bicycle accident attorney in San Francisco.
Bicycle Accident Statistics In San Francisco
San Francisco has an online database, TransBASE, created by the Department of Public Health. The system tracks bicycle accidents citywide. There was a steady increase from 2017 to 2019, with an annual average of 500 bicycle incidents during that time. Accident rates fell during 2020 when everyone was staying home.
Additionally, the trends for 2021 were preliminary but showed lower numbers for bicycle accidents than in prior years. The San Francisco website reports no bicycle fatalities up to April 2022. However, this does not mean the city is safer, as there are still substantial risks and the potential for bicycle accidents throughout San Francisco.
Media reports show just how prevalent bicycle accidents are in San Fran. In May 2022, CBS Bay Area TV reported a 7-year-old child was killed by a motorist in Fremont while riding their bike. Another man was also killed in a bicycle accident in the same month while on his bike. Nearby San Jose saw four bicycle deaths later that year. While these fatalities did not happen in San Francisco, they are close enough to cause concern.
Cliq also compiled a list of the top 15 most dangerous cities for cyclists nationwide. Six of those cities were in California. Some of those cities include:
- Sacramento (4th)
- Modesto (7th)
- San Bernardino (11th)
- Santa Ana (13th)
- Bakersfield (14th)
The California Transportation Injury Mapping System has good news for cyclists. They report that the number of bicycle accidents has fallen over the past decade. If you are the victim of negligent motorists, speak to our San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers. You can fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form, and we’ll determine if you have a viable claim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Do I Need A Lawyer For A Bicycle Accident?
The main reason to hire an attorney for a bicycle accident case is that they can significantly increase your chances of obtaining maximum compensation for your damages. Most people lack the experience to navigate the legal system and secure a fair settlement, especially while recovering. An attorney can handle complex insurance issues, gather strong evidence to support your claim, and even explore additional ways to recover damages you might not have been aware of.
Is It Always The Driver's Fault When Cyclists Get Into An Accident?
In cases where a large vehicle collides with a bicyclist and causes injuries, there is a common assumption that the bicyclist is the victim and the driver is automatically at fault. However, this isn’t always true. In some situations, the bicyclist may be found negligent and responsible for the accident. Therefore, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence with the help of an experienced bicycle accident attorney in San Francisco to substantiate your claim that the driver was responsible.
How Do I Determine The Value Of My Bicycle Accident Case?
- The type and severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses incurred and future treatment need
- Lost wages due to time off work
- Long-term effects such as disabilities or disfigurement
- Pain and suffering endured due to the accident
What Can I Do If A Hit-And-Run Driver Caused My Bike Accident?
If you’ve been in a bicycle accident due to a hit-and-run driver, you may be wondering if you can receive compensation. There are steps you can take to seek compensation for your injuries. Initially, filing a claim with your own car insurance policy can cover medical costs and property damage. Even if the hit-and-run driver is identified and faces criminal charges, you can still file a civil claim with their car insurance provider.
At Arash Law, we specialize in guiding clients through the legal process following bicycle accidents caused by hit-and-run drivers. Our skilled bike accident attorneys can help you understand your rights, file claims, and pursue compensation.
Call The Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers San Francisco Trusts!
The consequences of a bicycle accident are traumatic. Even with protective gear, you could suffer severe injuries and losses. Some of these accidents can also result in the death of cyclists. If you’re injured in a bicycle collision, our attorneys are prepared to support you throughout your legal process. We take pride in our reputation as one of California’s best bike accident lawyers known for outstanding service. We adeptly manage the intricate dynamics between cyclists and drivers, ensuring your perspective is valued, and your recovery is prioritized.
By hiring our bicycle accident lawyers in San Francisco, you’re gaining more than just legal representation — you’re securing a committed advocate who will vigorously pursue the compensation necessary for your future. Arash Law also handles claims for car accidents involving Uber, Lyft, trucks and semi-trucks, motorcycles, and other personal injury cases like slips and falls and dog bites. Call (888) 488-1391 to learn about your legal options.
We serve clients in San Francisco, Riverside, Sacramento, San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sherman Oaks, and throughout California. Our injury lawyers also serve nearby cities and neighborhoods, including Daly City, South San Francisco, Brisbane, Broadmoor, Pacifica, San Bruno, Alameda, Oakland, Emeryville, Piedmont, Sausalito, and Tamalpais-Homestead Valley. We have collected over 500 Million dollars for clients across the state.
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