Sacramento Bicycle Accident Attorney

Experienced Legal Advocacy for Sacramento Cyclists

A bicycle accident can result in severe injury, especially if there was a vehicle involved. Bicyclists can come away from an accident with traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and more. In the worst cases, a bicycle accident can end in wrongful death.

At Del Rio & Caraway, P.C. we understand the unique challenges that bicyclists face and the risks that they encounter out on the road. When accidents happen, it’s important to be sure that you have a dependable advocate on your side. Our Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer team is passionate about standing up for our clients.

California Bicycle Accident Laws

California's bicycle laws aim to promote safety and regulate the interactions between cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians. Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles, meaning they must obey traffic signals, stop signs, and yield rules. Cyclists are required to ride in the same direction as traffic, staying on the right-hand side of the road unless overtaking, making a left turn, avoiding hazards, or riding in a one-way street with legal exceptions. When bike lanes are available, cyclists must use them unless a situation like overtaking or hazard avoidance makes it unsafe.

Certain equipment is legally required to ensure safety. Riders under 18 years old must wear helmets, while adults are strongly encouraged to do so. Bikes used at night must have a white front light visible from 300 feet, a red rear reflector visible from 500 feet, and additional reflectors on pedals or wheels for side visibility. All bicycles must have functional brakes capable of making a one-wheel skid on dry pavement. Riders are required to use a proper seat unless the bicycle is designed for standing use, and child passengers under 4 years old or 40 pounds must be secured in an approved seat or trailer.

Cyclists must use hand signals to indicate turns and stops unless doing so would compromise their safety. They are prohibited from holding onto moving vehicles and cannot wear headphones or earbuds in both ears while riding. In interactions with vehicles, motorists must provide at least 3 feet of clearance when passing cyclists, and drivers should check for bikes before opening their car doors into traffic. Cyclists may use crosswalks without dismounting but are required to yield to pedestrians.

Violating these laws can result in fines, though minors may have the option to complete a traffic safety education course instead.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident with a Car

After a bicycle accident, there are certain things you can do to strengthen your case from the outset. First and foremost, get medical attention and move to a safe area where you aren’t at risk of being struck again by other vehicles. Once you are safe and stable, take note of what’s going on around you.

If you are too injured to collect information, consider asking a passerby to assist you. Any information recorded immediately after the accident has the potential to greatly strengthen your case.

Who is Responsible for My Bike Accident?

Bicycle accidents have a number of causes, but driver negligence is often the common denominator. Even though bicyclists have the same rights as vehicles, many drivers do not take the necessary precautions to prevent collisions with bicycles.

The most common causes of bicycle accidents include:

• Driver distraction - A driver who is not focused on the road is likely to hit a bicyclist or another motorist. Cell phone use, eating, and applying make-up are some of the top driver distractions.
• Drunk driving - Despite the prevalence of rideshare and awareness of the danger, drunk driving is still a leading cause of accidents in America. There is no excuse for a driver who operates their vehicle while intoxicated.
• Low-visibility - The majority of bike accidents occur between 6 PM and 9 PM when light is low. During this time, drivers should be extra observant of other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
• Dangerous roads - Roads that are not properly maintained or were poorly constructed can cause bicycle accidents.

Recovering compensation after a bicycle accident in California typically involves seeking damages for injuries, property damage, and other losses caused by another party’s negligence. Cyclists can pursue compensation through insurance claims or personal injury lawsuits, depending on the circumstances of the accident.

If negligence caused your bike crash, you deserve justice for your injuries. Get in touch with Sacramento bicycle accident lawyers who can provide qualified legal guidance as to your next steps. At Del Rio & Caraway, P.C., our team can provide you with personal legal representation backed by years of experience.