California Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Alpha Accident Lawyers is comprised of experienced bicycle accident attorneys who work tirelessly to uphold California’s traffic laws and defend the rights of injured cyclists who were harmed due to another party’s negligence. 

With an aim to recover maximum compensation for our clients, we offer unwavering support and always advocate in their best interest at every stage of the legal process, whether that’s during negotiations or litigation.

You are entitled to compensation. Please do not hesitate to contact California's top personal injury law firm. Schedule a free consultation, and we can begin discussing your bicycle accident case and set you on the path toward recovery. 

When Bicycle Accident Representation Is Needed

Bike accidents involving motor vehicles have a devastating impact on victims and their families. This is why it’s important to work with a California bicycle accident lawyer who understands the physical, emotional, and financial difficulties injured victims are enduring. While every personal injury claim may not require legal help, it is strongly advised for the following types of bicycle accident cases. 

1. Negligence Has Not Been Proven

Even when struck by a seemingly reckless driver of a motor vehicle, it is the injured bicyclists' role to prove that negligence caused the bike accident. Proving “negligence” in the legal sense is a complex process.

California law requires that to demonstrate negligence on the part of the defendant(s), there must be proof that their actions or inaction directly caused bicycle accident injuries. A bicycle accident attorney will utilize comprehensive evidence to build a sustainable bicycle accident case, consisting of: 

• Bicycle accident scene photos and videos
• Police reports 
• Witness statements
• Medical records and associated billing
• Expert witness testimonies
• Reconstruction of the bike accident by specialized experts

2. Liability Is in Question

In addition to reckless driving, there may be other contributory factors that cause a bicycle accident, like road defects or manufacturing defects in the bike. However, a skilled California bike accident lawyer can identify all at-fault parties, which may consist of: 

• Motor Vehicle Drivers: Primarily due to negligent driving, such as speeding, running lights, failing to yield, texting, and other reckless acts
• Pedestrians: Pedestrians can share liability by  jaywalking or obstructing a bicycle path
• Government Entities: Poorly maintained roads, potholes, or lack of signage is the government’s responsibility to maintain
• Manufacturers: Defective bicycles or components fall under product liability against the manufacturer or distributor
• Employers: Workers’ compensation for bicycle accidents that occurred while performing job duties 

Bicycle accident lawyers analyze evidence to identify all liable parties, allowing for the construction of a strong case that will maximize clients’ cooperation.

3. Hit-and-Run Bike Accidents

Victims afflicted by a hit-and-run accident will face many challenges. Assistance from a bicycle accident lawyer during this time is exponentially helpful in the following ways.

Investigation of the Bicycle Accident

This may involve reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and obtaining video footage from nearby businesses.

File a Claim with the Victim’s Insurance Company

Even if the hit-and-run driver is never identified, compensation can be recovered under the victim’s own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). A bike accident attorney can help file a bicycle accident claim and negotiate with the insurance company to get the maximum payout.

File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit

If the hit-and-run driver is identified, the victim may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. A bicycle accident attorney can prepare the case for trial and provide representation in court.

Deal with the Insurance Company

Insurance companies often try to minimize the value of bicycle accident claims, making it difficult to recover a fair settlement. A bike accident attorney can handle all communication with the insurance adjuster and negotiate for the maximum compensation.

Access to the Best Medical Treatment

A hit-and-run accident can result in serious injuries, requiring extensive medical care, and consequently resulting in expensive medical expenses. As an established law firm, Alpha Accident Lawyers has working relationships with local medical providers, allowing clients access to the top medical care. 

Understanding Bicycle Laws and Rights

California bicycle laws share many of the same responsibilities as driving laws. Some specific rules that pertain to bicycle accidents include the following. 

Riding with the Flow of Traffic

Generally, cyclists must move with the flow of vehicle traffic, unless:

• Passing: If passing another cyclist, moving to the left side of the lane is safe, ensuring proper distance and awareness of surrounding vehicles.
• Making a legal left turn: When turning left, cyclists should follow the same procedures as drivers, including signaling and positioning themselves in the proper lane.
• Riding on a one-way street: Cyclists can ride in either direction on a one-way street but must follow the traffic flow.
• Riding on a narrow road: If the road is too narrow to ride alongside traffic safely, a cyclist can ride in the center of the lane.
• Road construction: When the right side of the road is closed due to construction, cyclists can legally use the entire lane to navigate safely.

Designated Bike Lanes to Ensure Bicycle Safety

When a California road has a designated bike lane, cyclists traveling slower than the flow of traffic must ride in it. Exceptions exist for specific situations:

• Making a left turn: If turning left, it's safe to leave the lane to move into the correct lane to make the turn.
• Passing: If passing another cyclist or slower vehicle, cyclists can temporarily leave the lane to pass safely.
• Avoiding hazards: When encountering obstacles or debris in the bike lane, cyclists can briefly move onto the main road to avoid the hazard.
• Approaching a right turn: When approaching a place where a right turn is authorized, cyclists can leave the lane and position themselves in the rightmost lane to prepare for the turn.

Although not laws, additional considerations to keep all parties protected include: 

• Nighttime visibility: When riding after dark, cyclists must have a white headlight and a red rear reflector or taillight visible from 300 feet away.
• Sidewalk riding: Although allowed in some circumstances, sidewalk-riding can be dangerous and is prohibited in certain areas. Check local regulations before riding on sidewalks.
• Helmet requirement: Helmets are mandatory for cyclists under 18 years old. However, it is strongly recommended to wear a helmet regardless of age. 

Investigating Bicycle Accidents

The investigation is pivotal in proving liability in a bicycle accident case, as it identifies fault and supports how much can be awarded in damages. 

We understand the challenges that injured victims are faced with and are committed to holding the responsible parties accountable. Our California law firm is skilled in the investigation phase and will thoroughly investigate the accident to identify all potentially liable parties. This may involve:

• Analyzing the bike accident scene: Reviewing skid marks, debris, and photos to understand the accident's dynamics
• Reviewing police reports: Contains valuable information, including witness statements, the officer’s observations, and other pertinent facts
• Obtaining medical records: Documentation of the extent of the suffered injuries, medical treatment, and the medical bills for treatment
• Interviewing witnesses: Valuable and unbiased insights into the events leading up to the bicycle accident
• Consulting with reconstruction experts: Specialists who analyze the bike accident scene and recreate it to determine which party is at fault
• Hiring medical experts: Medical professionals who verify severe injuries were caused by the bike crash and their connection to the bicycle accident
• Working with financial experts: Calculate the full range of economic damages that were directly caused by the bike accident, including lost wages and medical expenses

Our thorough investigation allows for the construction of a strong case. At Alpha Accident Lawyers, we will use the gathered evidence to prove negligence and aggressively pursue the compensation our clients deserve.

Pursuing Full Compensation and Dealing with Insurance Companies

Whether struggling with painful injuries, substantial property damage, or the tragic loss of a loved one, our legal support can make a significant difference. Alpha Accident Lawyers offer expert guidance and representation to ensure you receive the fair compensation you deserve.

In our experience, dealing with insurance companies is overwhelming. Their representatives may attempt to minimize your injuries, deny your bicycle accident claim, or offer an inadequate settlement. Our team has the expertise and resources to counter these tactics and fight for your rightful compensation.

Don't let the at-fault driver's insurance company exploit your vulnerability. Contact our California bicycle accident lawyer today for a free consultation. We'll review your case and help you understand your legal options. Together, we can ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve to move forward with your life.

Expert Legal Team

Our California law firm has the experience and resources to gather evidence, build a robust case, and hold the negligent party responsible. We are committed to helping our clients recover the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Alpha Accident Lawyers has maintained a 99% success rate, and we strive to keep that record going. During the free consultation, we will be honest and transparent about the odds of winning a case, as well as disclosing our honest assessment of how much the case may be worth. 

Our expert guidance yields results that have resulted in the firm being recognized for its accomplishments. Please, schedule your free assessment to learn how we can help you obtain the justice you rightfully deserve. 

Top-Tier Legal Representation Without Financial Burden

We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That's why our personal injury law firm operates on a contingency fee basis.

What does this mean for you?

1. Zero upfront costs: You won't have to pay anything out of pocket, and we only get paid if we win your case.
2. No financial risk: If we don't achieve a successful outcome for your case, you owe ZERO legal fees.
3. Focus on your recovery: Clients are free from the financial burden of legal expenses, allowing them to focus on what’s most important, their recovery.

Award-Winning California Personal Injury Law Firm

Our California bicycle accident law firm is proud to serve the regions of Southern California and Northern California.

Contact a California Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

Phone Numbers:

• Los Angeles Office (213) 905-6911 
• Sacramento Office (916) 926-0036

Office Addresses:

• 355 South Grand Avenue, Suite 2455, Los Angeles, 90071
• 1201 J Street, Suite 337 Sacramento, CA 95814

Online:

• E-mail: [email protected]
• Contact Form

Don't Delay: Time is of the Essence in California Bicycle Accidents

If you've been injured in a bicycle crash, time is of the essence. California law imposes a strict statute of limitations on personal injury claims, typically giving you only two years to file a lawsuit. Therefore, you may lose your right to seek compensation for suffered injuries and damages if legal action is delayed.

Our award-winning bicycle accident lawyers understand the urgency of these situations. We are dedicated to helping victims of bicycle accidents maximize their recoveries and get the justice they deserve.

Don't let the statute of limitations become a barrier to your recovery. Contact Alpha Accident Lawyers today. We are here to help you navigate the legal system and obtain the compensation you deserve.