For most bicyclists, California is one of the many beautiful places to appreciate nature. At the same time, riding their bikes to work is a good exercise, which can also save them fares. Even if there are intended lanes for bikers, accidents still occur. This makes the state the leading bicycle accident-prone region even if it’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the United States. If you or a loved one met an accident because of other people’s negligence, consult an expert California bicycle accident injury lawyer. You’ll most likely have a case if you suffer severe injuries or damages.
Most Prevalent Kinds of Bicycle Accidents Occurring in California
Bicycles accidents happen anywhere and anytime of the day. The most common types of bicycle accidents include:
Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents occur when a cyclist hits the side of a vehicle. Drivers would always say that cyclists ride too distant left in the bike lane. On the other hand, biking far in the bike lane’s right direction multiplies the danger of being doored.
Car Door Accidents
This accident happens when a cyclist hits a car door when a driver opened it and is not aware of the oncoming cyclist. It usually occurs on streets where vehicles are side-by-side when parked and bike lanes diverge next to the parallel parking areas. Because of this, cyclists are at risk to slam into car doors, hence the word “doored or dooring.”
Driver Overtakes a Cyclist
Cyclists are commonly hit from behind while lawfully taking up a roadway. They are usually overtaken during the night when there’s low visibility. Drivers who didn’t see the cyclist won’t be able to stop in an instant before hitting that person.
Leaving a Private Drive
Bicycle accidents also happen on private drives where vehicles exit. When one of them missed looking before leaving, the result could be devastating. The accident also occurs on side streets, driveways, or sideways where a vehicle or a bicycle exits.
Crashes Riding Against Traffic
Riding against traffic is a wrong perception that every rider must take note of. Crashes associated with it account for a consequential fraction of serious injuries and death.
California Bicycle Accident Injury Lawyer: What Causes Bicycle Accidents in California?
Alertness is one of the many ways to keep bicycle accidents from happening. If only motorists comply with road regulations, less or no misfortune on the road will happen. Keeping their eyes open at all times and being aware of their surroundings could help prevent injuries or fatalities. Common causes of bicycle accidents in California include:
- Speeding
- Failure to obey street signs and signals
- Road rage
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Poor weather conditions
- Dooring
What Type of Injuries Does a Cyclist Usually Suffer in a Bicycle Accident?
The injuries that cyclists sustain in a bicycle accident are appalling and often more detrimental than motorists. It’s because cyclists are not well protected even if they wear protective gear. Even a helmet isn’t a guarantee that it will protect their heads from the strong impact. Common bicycle injuries that cyclists may experience include:
- Head and brain injuries
- Broken arms and legs
- Neck and back injuries
- Hand fracture
- Joint dislocation
- Dental and jaw injuries
- Nerve damage
- Fractured clavicle
- Paralysis
Expert California Bicycle Accident Injury Lawyer Can Help Determine Liability
In California, the state and local traffic rules usually determine bicycle accidents. Both cyclists and drivers should follow the laws. Likewise, they have a duty of care to every people on the road, including pedestrians to prevent injuring others.
An expert California bicycle accident injury lawyer can help verify all elements in the collision to determine who is at fault. They’ll be able to identify the level to which each party is to blame, who is financially liable.
What Compensatory Damages Can You Get After a Bicycle Accident?
Compensatory damages are quantifiable wherein you’ll receive an amount totaled from the overheads you spent for:
Medical Treatment Costs
As an injured cyclist, you need to seek medical attention to treat even the smallest cut or abrasion. For serious injuries, you might require surgery and after that, you need to rest for an indefinite time to recover fully. You also need to have regular doctor visits to check your recuperation progress.
Lost Salaries
Grave injuries will prevent you from returning to work in just a matter of days. It may take weeks or even months before you can get back to work. You might not be able to do the same tasks without any difficulty before the bicycle accident happened.
Property Damage
As a victim, you can also recover damages for any broken or dented physical properties. It includes a mobile phone, watch, helmet, glasses, backpack, and your bicycle itself.
Pain and Suffering
This type of damage is a bit difficult to prove and quantify. It contemplates both the physical and emotional damage an injured victim endures because of a tragic accident. An expert California bicycle accident injury lawyer can help prove the depression and distress you experienced because of other people’s negligence.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are generally awarded by the jury to the victim as additional compensation. The money comes from the defendant’s own pocket as a punishment for his egregious behavior.
Find a Reliable Advocate with Big Ben Lawyers
Whether you or a loved one were severely injured in a bicycle accident, Big Ben Lawyers will be there to help you unconditionally. Our expert California bicycle accident injury lawyers will hold your ground. We’re here to maximize and help secure the compensation you deserve and more.
Call us today at (818) 423-4878 for consultation at no obligation. We work on a contingency fee. You’ll be glad you chose the Big Ben Lawyers to get the job done for you.
Big Ben Lawyers
144 N Glendale Ave.
Suite 250
Glendale, CA 91206