Bicycle Accident
Bicycle Accident
Bicyclists can suffer serious injuries in accidents because they have far less protection than people traveling inside a vehicle. Injuries may include broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, cuts, abrasions, orthopedic injuries, and in the most serious cases, fatalities.
California Vehicle Code Section 21760, also known as the Three Feet for Safety Act, provides protections for bicyclists and establishes requirements for motorists when passing or overtaking them. Many bicycle accidents happen because drivers fail to see bicyclists or fail to respect their rights on the road. Common causes include unsafe turns, lane changes, merging, sideswipes, and other impacts that cause a bicyclist to fall.
Protecting Your Bicycle Accident Claim
Because bicycle accident cases can involve questions of fault, roadway laws, and available evidence, it is important to preserve as much information as possible after an accident.
Evidence can disappear quickly, and the condition of your bicycle, helmet, clothing, and other items may help establish what happened.
If applicable insurance coverage is available, compensation may also be pursued for damage to your bicycle.
What You Should Do
- Get the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses.
- Look for nearby security, traffic, doorbell, or business cameras that may have recorded the accident.
- Preserve your bicycle, helmet, clothing, shoes, and other items from the accident.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if your symptoms initially seem minor.
- Avoid giving a statement to the responsible party’s insurance company before speaking with an attorney.
- Do not tell the insurance company that you are not injured simply because you feel fine immediately after the accident.
Do you need help?
Let Lena Law handle the insurance companies and guide your case from beginning to conclusion while you concentrate on recovering from your injuries.