Bicycle Accident

Bicyclists, many times, suffer serious injuries including broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and fatalities in accidents because they have less protection than persons traveling in a vehicle. Even if the bicyclist's injury is not so severe, they still suffer bodily injuries such as cuts and abrasions, or orthopedic pain and complaints.

California's Vehicle Code Section 21760 also known as the "Three Feet for Safety Act" was enacted for the protection of bicyclists providing motorist's requirements when driving, passing or overtaking a bicyclist. Most bicycle accidents are caused by motorists who often do not see the bicyclist or ignore the bicyclist's rights on the roadway. Bicyclists are generally hit by a vehicle making a turn, merging/lane changing, get sideswiped, or fall to the ground from an impact with a vehicle. 

Under California law, bicyclists must also obey the rules of the road, and have the same rights and responsibility as someone operating a motor vehicle. They must obey all traffic signals, not ride facing traffic but ride to the right, obey posted speed limits and stop signs, and more. Bicyclists should also know local riding ordinances regarding sidewalk riding, and use bike lanes when present. 

Many factors are considered in bicycle accidents, and these cases may be difficult to prove in some instances. That is why injured bicyclists should entrust an accident attorney to handle their case. 

If an eyewitness saw the accident, obtain the witness contact information if you are able. If any videos exist at a nearby business or residence, try to obtain a copy of the video (or ask to take a video of the video footage by using your cell phone.) Do not dispose of your bicycle, the clothes, shoes and helmet you were wearing at the time of the accident, and provide it to your attorney as it may be evidence needed for your case.

Get immediate medical attention for your injuries suffered from the bike accident to help in your recovery and document your injuries. We will also assist you to get the medical attention and care you need to help in your recovery process. When the responsible party is insured, we will assist you in recovering compensation for the property damage caused to your bicycle.  

If you receive a call from the insurance company for the responsible party following your accident, do not speak with them or give any statement to the insurance company. Do not tell the insurance company that you are not injured because you may not feel your injuries or symptoms immediately or at the time you speak with the insurance company. Sometimes, symptoms/injuries develop days or weeks after the accident. It is good practice to allow your attorney to open the insurance claim for you. 

Insurance companies are not looking out for your best interest because they are a business interested in keeping money in their own pockets and paying you as little as possible, if anything at all. Your attorney, on the other hand, looks out for your best interest and works for you.

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, call Lena Law to help you. Let us make the first call to the insurance companies for you and handle your accident case to its conclusion. We work for you to ensure you receive the best possible and just compensation and relief, while you concentrate on recovering from your injuries.