Bicycle Accidents - California Accident Attorneys

At The Nezhad Law Firm, PLC, we know how a serious a bicycle accident in a California can damage the quality of one's life. That is why the California bicycle accident attorneys at The Nezhad Law Firm, PLC are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve in the wake of recklessness or negligence by another party. In fact, our skilled staff of accident attorneys have spent more than three decades achieving successful legal outcomes for a wide range of accident clients throughout California.

More than that though, we care deeply about our clients. Our supportive, personal approach means that you
will not be dealing with the stress of a hurried, high-pressure legal consultation while also coping with the aftermath of an accident. Instead, we will take the time to discuss your case with you then devise the winning strategy that you need.

Bicycle Accidents in California

Since 2003, the number of California bicycle accidents causing injury has been steadily on the rise. Many statistics suggests that a significant number of auto-bicycle collisions occur each year but are not reported to authorities.

Where Bicycle Accidents Happen

As is the case with pedestrian accidents, the most bicycle accidents tend to happen in the cities with the greatest population or in college towns where a number of student cyclists are injured. A number of students, faculty, and staff are likely bike to campus in these towns, creating a greater likelihood of injury and fatal accidents than in other communities.

Unlike with pedestrian accidents, nearly three-quarters of all bicycle accidents occur at intersections and driveways, suggesting that neither bicyclists nor drivers fully understand the Rules of the Road when it comes to turning and cross-traffic situations. The Federal Highway Administration has suggested that both drivers and those who ride bicycles be better informed about these situations before setting out on the road.

How to Avoid a Bicycle Accident For Drivers

Clearly, the best way for drivers to avoid accidents with bicycle riders is to remain alert and vigilant behind the wheel at all times. It is critical that drivers know that bicyclists are entitled to the same rights, and have the same responsibilities, as automobile drivers. Here are some specific steps that drivers can take to minimize the number of bicycle accidents:

• Always drive at a speed that is safe for conditions. Wet or icy roadways mean that your car will need extra room to stop, and also significantly increases the risk of falling in the roadway for bicyclists.
  Exercise caution on two lane roads – 60% of all accidents occurred on these roadways where traffic moves at a high speed in narrow lanes.
• Be particularly alert during early morning and evening hours when the glare of the sun may impair your ability to see out your windshield. Two-thirds of bicycle accidents nationwide occur in the late afternoon and evening hours. Keep your windshield clear of dirt and debris.
• Avoid distractions such as talking on a cell phone or consulting a map while driving. Pull over to the side of the road if you need to do either of these things, particularly on roads where bicyclists are often present.
• Don’t drink and drive. Although alcohol was an issue in only 5% of all bicycle accidents nationwide, it is never a good idea to drive if you have been drinking.
• Check your mirrors carefully and proceed slowly when backing out of driveways and parking lots.
• Nearly 75% of all bicycle accidents nationwide occur at intersections or driveways. Slow the speed of your vehicle when proceeding through an intersection, and always come to a complete stop at a stop sign. Be aware of any bicyclists at other entrances to the intersection, and be sure to check your mirrors and blindspots for any bicyclists behind or to the side of your vehicle.
• The Federal Highway Administration warns that not all bicyclists believe they must obey the same rules as drivers, creating a dangerous situation. Drivers should not assume that bicyclists will yield right-of-way.

How to Avoid a Bicycle Accident For Bicyclists

First and foremost, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as automobile drivers. It’s important to remember that not all drivers feel it is their duty to share the road with bicyclists, and few drivers check their mirrors and blindspots as often as they should.

Experienced bicycle riders are rarely found to be at fault for accidents. Failure to yield, riding against traffic, stop sign violations, and safe movement violations are the factors cited by the Federal Highway Administration as those that most often contribute to a bicycle accident.

Specific steps bicyclists can take to avoid an accident with a motor vehicle are:

• Wear a helmet. Although this may not protect against an accident, in the event one does occur, wearing a helmet could save you from serious injury or even death. Helmets are also a good place to place reflective tape for riding at night.
• Do not try to make a left-hand turn from a designated bicycle lane. If you are making a left-hand turn, merge into the left-hand lane of traffic. Do not cut in front of other drivers, as they may not see you.
• Avoid riding alongside cars as you pass through an intersection – a driver may turn in front of you without warning. Always merge into normal traffic lanes as you approach an intersection.
• Be alert around parked cars, as the car’s occupants may open their doors suddenly without seeing you.
• Always keep both hands on your handlebars to maintain maximum control of your bike.
• Equip your bike with mirrors and check them frequently while riding.
• Equip your bike with a light if you typically ride in the evenings or at night.
• Make hand signals if you plan to turn.
• Be alert during the late afternoon and evening hours. Two-thirds of all bicycle accidents occur during these hours because of visibility problems caused by the low angle of the sun.

Bicycle Accidents and California State Law

If you have been hit in a bicycle accident, you are encouraged to consult a bike accident lawyer with a proven track record, even if you do not end up hiring one. Bicycle accident cases tend to be more complex than typical auto accident cases or pedestrian accident cases, because the right-of-way is so often in question. In some cases, insurance companies refuse to compensate victims because they are either found to be entirely or partially at fault for the accident. It is in these cases in particular that you may need the help of an attorney who knows the law in California.

Our attorneys can help you determine your best course of action during a free, no-obligation consultation. We have over 30 years of experience in bicycle accident cases, and we can help you make an informed decision about whether to pursue your case on your own or with our help. Please call us toll free at (877) 285-2539 for a free consultation.

Bicycle Accidents Involving Uninsured or Underinsured Motorists in California

If you are a bicyclist injured by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, your own automobile insurance policy may cover your injuries, despite the fact that you were not in your car at the time of the accident. The circumstances of each case differ, including the insurance policies involved, and the type and severity of the injuries, but our attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation for your injuries even if the driver who hit you was uninsured or underinsured.

California Bicycle Accidents Involving Big-Rigs, Commercial Trucks, or Other Commercial Vehicles

Despite abiding by the same guidelines of the California Motor Vehicle Code, truck drivers are subject to stricter regulations than car drivers. The actions (or inactions) of licensed truck drivers come under much closer scrutiny, particularly if they are in the course and scope of employment at the time of the accident. These issues include:

• Difficulty for bicyclists to properly judge the rate of approach of big-rigs and other large vehicles.
• Difficulty of seeing bicyclists in blind spots in front of, to the right of, or behind a semi-trailer.
• Broken or inadequate mirrors, horn equipment, and other warning devices.
  Turning radius issues related to tractor trailers and other extended vehicles.
• Investigating the circumstances of bicycle accidents.

While a police report at the time of the accident is usually an accurate assessment of what happened, eyewitness statements and the statement of the driver involved are critical to your case. Physical evidence such as markings on the roadway and the severity and location of any damage to the vehicle, as well as your bicycle, are also important. An accident reconstruction expert may also help strengthen your case. Our clients benefit from our 30+ years of experience using all of these investigative techniques.

About The Nezhad Law Firm, PLC – California Bicycle Accident Attorneys

With more than 30 years of combined experience in accidents, personal injury and wrongful death law, the attorneys at The Nezhad Law Firm, PLC offer effective representation to serious injury victims throughout California. Our case results, which include many seven figure settlements and verdicts, are a testament to our abilities and commitment. Our approach is results-oriented and client focused. Contact the attorneys at law firm today to see how we can help you obtain a positive resolution to your personal injury case. If we represent you in your claim, we will not charge any fees unless we obtain compensation for you.

Free Bicycle Accident Legal Consultation:

There is never a charge to talk to a accident attorney at The Nezhad Law Firm, PLC.. With a convenience office locations throughout the enitre State of California, and the willingness to make house calls, our bicycle accident attorneys in Califonia will be there when you need them. If we accept your case, we would handle your case on a contingency fee basis.

If you have been seriously injured, or if a member of your family has been killed in a California bicycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation from the manufacturer of the vehicle or any other liable party. Contact The Nezhad Law Firm, PLC toll free at (877) 285-2539 for more information or a free and immediate consultation. We are available to discuss your situation 24 hours a day.

At The Nezhad Law Firm PLC, our goal is for you to receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills,
lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and loss of enjoyment of life. In short, our clients always come first. We will fight for you until a fair and just legal outcome can be achieved. With offices in throughout California, The Nezhad Law, PLC has the experience and resources necessary to investigate and resolve your case. Our attorneys are adept negotiators who have the necessary trial experience to obtain the best possible results for your accident claim.

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