Bicyclists Are Vulnerable To Serious Injuries
Bicycles and pedestrians have rights on the road just like all motor vehicles. California’s driving laws specify that motorists must be careful of people on bicycles, scooters and motorcycles, and treat them as if they are another car on the road. Motorists must not drive in designated bicycle lanes and motorists making right-hand turns must yield to cyclists.
If you are riding a bicycle and get struck by a car, you may suffer severe injuries. You deserve to be compensated for the harm you have suffered, including damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Work With Knowledgeable Bike Injury Attorneys
At the Ellis Helm, APC, we focus on personal injury cases and are dedicated to providing individualized attention to your bicycle injury case. We represent people throughout Southern California in a wide variety of personal injury cases, including fatal accidents and wrongful death claims.
Our lawyers are experienced in handling personal injury cases, and we take time to give you personalized care and attention. If you have been seriously injured in a bicycle accident, we will provide you with top-notch legal representation.
Types Of Bicycle Accidents And Injuries
Most bicycle accidents occur as a result of a collision with a motor vehicle under the following circumstances:
- Drivers failing to yield to bicyclists
- Backing out of a driveway
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Inattentive driving
- Opening a car door as a cyclist rides by
- Running a red light or stop sign
As you can see, drivers are almost always at fault in these cases. You shouldn’t have to pay the price for a driver’s negligence.
The types of serious injuries sustained from bicycle accidents include:
- Brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Head injuries
- Lacerations
- Nerve damage
- Spinal cord damage
- Sprains and soft-tissue injuries
Bike Accidents Involving Children
Learning to ride a bike is one of the most exciting milestones in childhood. Teaching children safe biking practices – such as always wearing a helmet and paying attention to traffic – is critical to protecting them from harm.
However, drivers aren’t always attentive to children on bikes, resulting in collisions that can leave children with debilitating, lifelong injuries. Our attorneys can help you recover compensation on behalf of your child. They deserve the financial foundation for a brighter future – not only for their medical care, but also for the lasting impact of the collision on all areas of their life. We can enlist the help of economic experts to value the damages your child is entitled to receive, to compensate them for both their short-term and long-term harm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bike Accident Cases
What should I do immediately after a bike accident on the road?
After a bike accident, ensure your safety first by moving to a safe location if possible. Contact the police to report the accident and gather information, including witness statements and photographs of the scene. Seek medical attention for any injuries, and then contact a bike injury lawyer to discuss your legal options and potential claims.
How do I prove negligence in a bicycle accident lawsuit in California?
To prove negligence in a bicycle accident lawsuit, you must show that the driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty by acting negligently (e.g., distracted driving or driving under the influence), and caused your injuries as a result. Collecting evidence such as traffic collision reports, witness testimonies, and medical records can strengthen your case.
What types of compensation can I receive from a bicycle accident lawsuit?
In a bicycle accident lawsuit, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, property damage, and punitive damages. An experienced attorney can help you determine the full extent of your damages and advocate for your rights.
How long do I have to file a bike accident claim in California?
The statute of limitations for filing a bike accident claim in California is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, specific circumstances can affect this timeframe, so it’s important to consult with a bike injury lawyer promptly to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
What evidence is important in a bicycle accident case?
Important evidence in a bicycle accident case includes police reports, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene and injuries, medical records, and any available video footage, such as from dashcams or traffic cameras. This evidence can help establish fault and the extent of your damages.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. A bike injury lawyer can help you navigate this complex area of law.
How can a bike injury lawyer help me with my case?
A bike injury lawyer can help you by providing legal advice, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary. Their experience and knowledge of bicycle accident laws can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.
Contact Our Firm For A Free Consultation
To schedule a free initial consultation with the bike accident attorneys at the Ellis Helm, APC, reach out to us online or call 951-875-6875. We offer evening and weekend appointments upon request, as well as home and hospital visits.
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