Bicycle Accident FAQ Guide

First, ensure your safety and call 911 if there are injuries. Gather as much information as possible, including the driver’s details (if applicable), witness contact information, photos of the scene, and your bicycle’s and injuries’ conditions. It’s also crucial to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may surface later.

Here is more resource:
7 Important Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident

Liability depends on the circumstances of the accident. Drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, or even government entities responsible for maintaining roads could be at fault. Determining liability typically requires examining negligence and rule violations. Consulting with an attorney can help clarify liability in your case.

If someone else’s negligence caused the accident, you have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other damages. Filing a claim or lawsuit is the usual process for receiving compensation.

Yes, California has a statute of limitations. You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If your claim involves a government entity, the time frame is much shorter, typically six months.

While not required, an attorney can provide valuable guidance, handle insurance negotiations, and represent your best interests. If your case involves disputes over liability, severe injuries, or if you feel overwhelmed navigating the legal system, an experienced bicycle attorney can significantly help.

Bicycle accidents in California often result from a combination of factors. Common causes include distracted driving, failure to yield the right of way, speeding, driving under the influence, and unsafe road conditions. Cyclists should always remain vigilant and visible, following traffic laws to reduce the risk of accidents.

Serious bicycle accident injuries can include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), broken bones (especially to the arms, legs, and collarbones), spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries. Scrapes, bruises, and road rash are also common. Wearing protective gear, such as helmets, can help reduce the severity of some injuries.

Yes, California law requires bicyclists under the age of 18 to wear a helmet while riding. Although adults over 18 are not legally obligated to wear a helmet, it is highly recommended for safety. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injury in accidents.

Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are classified into three categories in California based on speed and motor assistance. Most e-bikes are allowed on bike paths and lanes unless explicitly prohibited. Riders must follow specific rules depending on the type of e-bike they operate, and helmets are required for certain classes of e-bikes. For a detailed breakdown, consult California Vehicle Code Sections 21207.5 and 21213.

California law does not explicitly prohibit riding bicycles on sidewalks. However, the legality of sidewalk cycling varies by city and local ordinances. Some cities allow it, while others ban it in high-traffic areas. Cyclists should check their city’s regulations and always yield to pedestrians if riding on the sidewalk.