Roseville Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Fighting For Bicycle Accident Victims in Northern California

At the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured cyclists in Roseville, CA. With years of experience handling personal injury cases, our team understands the unique challenges bicycle accident victims face. If you or a loved one has been injured in a cycling accident, our skilled attorneys are here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at (916) 318-3988 to speak with our Roseville bicycle accident lawyer who can guide you through this difficult time.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident 

Being involved in a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the right steps to take can protect your rights and support your recovery journey. Here's what to do immediately following an accident:

• Ensure Safety First: If possible, prioritize your safety by moving to a safe location. Then, call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor initially.
• Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from witnesses and others involved, as their statements could be crucial.
• Document Details: Write down the events leading up to and following the accident. This can help jog your memory later and support your account during legal proceedings.
• Contact Law Enforcement: Police reports provide an official accident record and can be pivotal when filing insurance claims or legal actions.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer promptly, providing them with verifiable facts and evidence, but avoid detailed statements until consulting with your attorney.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to negligence on the part of motorists or unsafe road conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Negligence: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to see cyclists, particularly when making turns, merging, or exiting driveways. Distracted driving, speeding, & impaired driving are also frequent culprits.
• Dooring Incidents: Cyclists riding close to parked cars can be struck when a driver or passenger opens a door without checking for oncoming bicycles.
• Unsafe Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, & inadequate bike lane markings create hazardous conditions for cyclists.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to bicyclists at intersections or crosswalks often cause serious collisions.
• Weather Conditions: Poor visibility, slick roads, & high winds can increase the likelihood of a bicycle accident.

California Bicycle Laws

California law provides several protections for cyclists while also imposing responsibilities. Familiarity with these laws can help cyclists stay safe & ensure they are acting within their rights. Important California bicycle laws include:

• Right to the Road: Bicyclists have the same rights & responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers & are entitled to use most roads, except where explicitly prohibited.
• Three-Foot Passing Law: Motorists must provide at least three feet of clearance when overtaking a cyclist.
• Helmets: Cyclists under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet. Although not mandatory for adults, wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of serious injury.
• Bike Lane Usage: Cyclists must use designated bike lanes when available unless unsafe conditions exist, such as debris or parked vehicles blocking the lane.
• Lighting Requirements: Bicycles ridden at night must have a front white light, rear red reflector, & reflectors on pedals or wheels for visibility.

Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists lack the physical protection afforded to motorists, making them vulnerable to serious injuries in the event of an accident. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, cyclists may suffer head injuries in severe accidents.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting a person’s quality of life.
• Broken Bones: Collisions often result in fractures to the arms, legs, or collarbone.
• Road Rash: Severe abrasions caused by contact with the pavement can lead to infections or permanent scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs may not be immediately apparent & can have life-threatening consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Compensation Can I Seek After a Bicycle Accident?

Victims of bicycle accidents may seek several types of compensation in personal injury claims. This typically includes medical expenses covering emergency care, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation costs. Compensation for lost wages may be pursued if you cannot work temporarily or permanently due to your injuries. Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical and emotional distress resulting from the accident. Lastly, property damage compensation can be sought to cover repairs or replacement of your bicycle and related equipment.

How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including bicycle accident claims, is generally two years from the accident date. Missing this deadline typically means losing the right to pursue compensation through the courts. However, there are exceptions, such as when claims involve government entities. In such cases, a claim may need to be filed within as little as six months.

Do Helmets Affect My Bicycle Accident Claim?

While wearing a helmet is mandatory for cyclists under 18 in California, helmet use or non-use can influence personal injury claims, particularly in assessing the extent of injuries. If you were not wearing a helmet during an accident and suffered head injuries, insurance companies might argue that your injuries were partially due to your failure to wear protective gear.

How Is Fault Determined in Bicycle Accidents?

Determining fault in bicycle accidents often requires a detailed investigation into the crash's circumstances. This includes evaluating factors such as road conditions, traffic signals, and the behavior of the cyclist and driver involved. Gathering eyewitness statements, examining police reports, and analyzing any available surveillance footage all contribute to building a clear picture of what occurred.

How Our Roseville Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Help

Our experienced attorneys are committed to helping bicycle accident victims secure fair compensation for their injuries. When you choose the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, you can expect:

• Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We will review the details of your accident & provide an honest assessment of your legal options.
• Thorough Investigation: Our team will collect evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, & surveillance footage, to build a strong case.
• Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. We will negotiate aggressively on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Court Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court & fight for your rights.

Our goal is to alleviate the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. This commitment includes ongoing communication to keep you informed of developments at every stage. Whether in negotiation or trial, our strategy is always based on your best interests, ensuring a transparent and personalized legal journey.

To schedule a free consultation, call (916) 318-3988 or complete our online contact form today to connect with our Roseville bicycle accident attorney.