California Bicycle Accident Lawyers

At Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, we understand a bicycle accident’s devastating impact on your life. From physical injuries to emotional trauma and financial burdens, the aftermath of a bike crash can leave you reeling.

That’s where we come in.

Our team of top-rated injury attorneys in California is dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. With decades of experience representing accident victims, we have a proven track record of successfully handling bicycle accident cases throughout California.

Why You Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in California

Bicycle accidents often lead to serious injuries, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. Unfortunately, many cyclists face an uphill battle when seeking compensation for their injuries. Insurance companies frequently try to minimize payouts, and at-fault drivers may deny responsibility.

As experienced California bicycle accident attorneys, we fight aggressively to protect your rights and ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

By working with us, you’ll have an advocate who understands the intricacies of California law and will work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can happen in various ways, often due to the negligence of motor vehicle drivers. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in California include:

• Distracted driving: Texting, eating, or other distractions can cause drivers to fail to notice cyclists, leading to dangerous collisions.
• Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit may be unable to stop in time to avoid hitting a cyclist.
• Failure to yield: Drivers often fail to yield to cyclists at intersections, particularly when making left or right turns.
• Dooring accidents: One of the leading causes of bike accidents, dooring occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist.
• Drunk driving: Impaired drivers pose a significant risk to all road users, including cyclists.

If you were injured in a bike crash due to any of these causes or other forms of driver negligence, you must contact a bike crash lawyer in CA to explore your legal options.

California Bicycle Laws

California has enacted various laws to protect cyclists and promote safer roadways. As California bicycle accident attorneys, we thoroughly understand these laws and how they apply to accident cases. Some key laws that impact bicycle accidents in California include:

• California Vehicle Code § 21200: Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists when operating on the road. This means drivers must treat cyclists with the same caution and care as any other vehicle.
• Three-Foot Law: Under California Vehicle Code § 21760, drivers must maintain a distance of at least three feet when passing a cyclist. Failing to do so can result in significant penalties, and more importantly, it puts cyclists at risk of serious harm.
• Helmet Laws: California requires all cyclists under 18 to wear helmets while riding. Although adults are not legally required to wear helmets, doing so can reduce the severity of head injuries in an accident.

Understanding these laws is crucial when building a case against a negligent driver. Our bicycle accident lawyers in California have successfully leveraged these regulations to secure favorable outcomes for our clients.

California Bicycle Accident Statistics

Unfortunately, Bicycle accidents are common in California, where favorable weather and a cycling culture mean more cyclists are on the road. In 2021, California accounted for 129 bicyclist fatalities, which was the highest number of any state in the U.S.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), California also consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous states for cyclists, with nearly 800 bicycle-related deaths between 2010 and 2020.

Injuries resulting from bicycle accidents are even more frequent. Thousands of cyclists are injured every year in California, with many suffering serious, life-altering injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Lacerations and road rash
• Internal injuries

These injuries can result in long-term medical care, lost wages, and a diminished quality of life. If you’ve been injured, it’s important to work with a bicycle accident lawyer near me who understands these injuries’ full impact and who will fight for the compensation you need to recover.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

The steps you take immediately after a bicycle accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are the critical actions you should follow to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:

• Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, getting checked out by a medical professional is important. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
• Call the police: A police report can be vital evidence in your case. Ensure officers are provided with your version of events, as this will be included in the official report.
• Gather evidence: If you can, take pictures of the accident scene, including any damage to your bike, the vehicle involved, and your injuries. Get contact information from witnesses and exchange information with the driver.
• Do not admit fault: Be cautious when discussing the accident with the driver or the insurance company. Anything you say can be used to diminish your claim.
• Contact a bicycle accident lawyer in California: The sooner you involve an experienced attorney, the better your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.

How We Can Help

At Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, we are committed to helping victims of bicycle accidents obtain justice. When you work with our firm, we’ll guide you through every step of the legal process, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to trial.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Personalized attention: Every case is unique, so we tailor our approach to your needs and circumstances.
• Extensive experience: With over 30 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents, we have the knowledge and skills to build a strong case on your behalf.
• No upfront fees: We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
• Proven results: Our track record speaks for itself. We have recovered over $400 million for our clients and have consistently been recognized as top-rated injury attorneys in California.

Compensation Available for Bicycle Accident Victims

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the following damages:

• Medical expenses: This includes the cost of emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income, including future earning potential.
• Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional pain can have a lasting impact on your life. Our team will work to secure compensation for these non-economic damages.
• Property damage: You may also be entitled to compensation for repairing or replacing your damaged bicycle.

By working with a bike crash lawyer in CA, you can ensure that all of your damages are considered and that you receive the full amount you’re owed.

Contact the Top-Rated Injury Attorneys in California Today

Don’t wait to take action if you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. At Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, we are here to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Let us put our experience to work for you.