If you were hurt in a bicycle crash, you may be staring at medical bills, missed work, and a lot of uncertainty about what comes next, especially if an insurance adjuster is already calling. BD&J is here to take that weight off your shoulders with 20+ years of experience, more than $3 billion* recovered for injured clients, and 24/7 availability to talk through your options.
You don’t have time to “wait and see.” Call BD&J California bicycle accident lawyers now so we can protect your rights, start preserving evidence, and deal with the insurance company for you.
Key Takeaways
- A bicycle accident occurs when a bicyclist is struck by another driver while riding
- Distracted driving, failing to yield, speeding, and faulty bicycle equipment are a few of the common factors that cause bicycle accidents
- In 2024, there were 165 bicyclist fatalities noted in California (CATSIP)
- A California bicycle accident lawyer from BD&J can help you file a claim for compensation after a devastating accident
California’s Growing Bike Accident Problem
While most Californians turn to their cars or public transport to get from point A to point B, the landscape of the state also makes it easier for some people to reach for their bikes. Whether it’s navigating larger cities like Los Angeles, to cities with rich residential areas like Irvine, there are plenty of opportunities for bicyclists to make their commute.
Unfortunately, there are also greater risks for bike accidents. The numbers show us:
- Bike accident deaths have increased 37% nationwide in the last 10 years (NSC)
- The age group that suffers the most bicycle accident injuries are minors aged 10-14 (NSC)
- Los Angeles County and Orange County have the highest incidents of bicyclist fatalities and serious injuries (CATSIP)
- There were a combined 1,547 incidents of bicyclist fatalities and injuries in California (TIMS)
Do You Need a License to Ride a Bike?
No, you do not need to have a license to ride a bicycle. However, you must still obey regular traffic laws, such as:
- Using designated bike lanes
- Following traffic lights and signals
- Riding with traffic
- Not riding on freeways
- Yielding to pedestrians within marked or unmarked crosswalks
Why Do Bicycle Accidents Happen in California?
Here are some of the most common causes of bike accidents:
- Driver negligence: Distracted driving, speeding, or failing to yield to cyclists
- Dooring incidents: Drivers opening car doors without checking for cyclists
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, or unsafe construction zones
- Violation of bike lane rules: Cars veering into designated bike lanes or obstructing them
- Faulty bicycle equipment: Defective bicycle helmets, poorly manufactured brakes, and badly designed handlebars
Each accident is unique, involving different scenarios, injuries, and outcomes. What remains constant is the dedication of our team to investigate and address the root cause of your accident to build a strong case for your claim.
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Types of Bike Accident Collisions
Accidents often happen during seemingly routine situations, such as when drivers fail to yield at an intersection or misjudge a cyclist’s speed. Common collision types include:
- Intersection side-impact crashes, where a driver ignores right-of-way rules and strikes you while you’re riding through an intersection
- “Right hook” and “left turn” crashes, where a vehicle turns across your path and cuts you off with little or no time to brake or evade
- Rear-end collisions, where a distracted or speeding driver fails to see you in time and hits you from behind
- Sideswipe collisions, where a bicyclist is struck by another vehicle that’s merging or failing to leave space for the bicyclist
Understanding the dynamics of these collisions helps us determine fault and develop an effective legal strategy tailored to your case. We work closely with you to build a case that puts you front and center and aims to win you the highest compensation. Acting as quickly as possible following your accident helps put you in the best position to win the payout you deserve.
California Bicycle Laws and Your Legal Deadline to File
Understanding California bicycle laws can make a real difference in how your claim is evaluated, especially when the other side tries to argue you were “not riding safely” or that your bike was not properly equipped. Two key issues often come up in bicycle injury cases: equipment compliance and your legal deadline (the statute of limitations).
- Vehicle Code 21201 (equipment requirements): California law includes equipment rules for bicycles used at night and in other conditions. For example, VC 21201 generally requires specific lighting and reflectors (such as a white front light visible from a required distance, rear reflectors, and pedal/side reflectors) when riding in darkness. If an insurer tries to use equipment issues to reduce what they pay, we look closely at what the law actually requires and what really caused the crash.
- Your filing deadline (statute of limitations): In most California bicycle accident cases, you generally have 2 years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Waiting can put your case at risk, especially as evidence disappears and witnesses become harder to locate.
- Pure comparative fault: California follows a pure comparative fault rule. That means you can still pursue compensation even if you were partly at fault. Your recovery is typically reduced by your percentage of responsibility, rather than being barred altogether.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in California
Cyclists lack the protective barriers that drivers have, which often leads to severe injuries in crashes. Beyond the physical toll, the psychological impact of a crash — such as anxiety about riding again — can profoundly affect a cyclist’s quality of life.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Even with a helmet, a violent impact can cause a concussion or more serious TBI with lasting cognitive, emotional, or neurological effects.
- Spinal cord injuries: Back and neck trauma can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, or life-changing paralysis.
- Broken bones: Fractures to the collarbone, ribs, wrists, arms, legs, hips, or pelvis are common and may require surgery and lengthy rehab.
- Road rash: Sliding on pavement can cause deep abrasions that are painful, can scar, and carry a serious infection risk.
- Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and whiplash can limit your ability to work or ride and may not fully show up until days after the crash.
- Facial or dental injuries: Impact to the face can involve broken teeth, jaw fractures, or other disfiguring injuries needing specialized care.
- Internal injuries: Bleeding or organ damage may not be immediately obvious but can become life-threatening without prompt treatment.
- Amputations: Catastrophic crashes can cause traumatic amputations or require surgical amputation due to severe crush injuries.
At BD&J, we aim to understand the full scope of your injuries, ensuring every aspect of your suffering is accounted for in your claim.
Determining Liability in Bicycle Accidents
One of the key challenges in a bicycle accident case is identifying who’s responsible, and you shouldn’t have to figure that out while you’re trying to heal. We collect evidence and facts to build the strongest case for you. Liability can lie with a negligent driver, but in some cases, it may extend to other parties. For example:
- A city or municipality might be at fault for failing to maintain safe road conditions.
- A bicycle manufacturer could bear responsibility for defective equipment.
When road defects, unsafe property conditions, or a dangerous construction zone played a role, your case may also involve premises liability issues, meaning a property owner, contractor, or public entity could share responsibility.
Because California uses pure comparative fault, you may still recover damages even if you were partly responsible for what happened. The insurance company may try to shift blame to reduce what it pays, but we work to prove what really happened and to pursue the maximum recovery available based on the evidence.
Our attorneys work to uncover every contributing factor to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable. We leave no stone unturned when collecting evidence and information. We will keep you informed every step of the way.
How We Prove Negligence in Your Bicycle Accident Case
Proving negligence involves demonstrating that the responsible party failed to act reasonably, causing the accident. For example, if a driver runs a red light, drifts into a bike lane, or opens a door into your path, we focus on proving exactly how that conduct breached their duty of care and how it harmed you.
Then, we build your case with the proof insurers fight hardest to downplay. This includes surveillance or dashcam video, witness statements, phone records when distraction is suspected, and the police and medical documentation that ties your injuries directly to the crash. We call upon our years of experience and our large network of experts to build a robust case.
Who was liable for your accident? Call BD&J now to talk about your bike accident.
Compensation You Can Recover
Cyclists involved in accidents may face a long road to recovery — physically, emotionally, and financially. Depending on your case, compensation may include:
- Medical expenses (immediate and long term): This can include emergency care, surgery, hospital stays, prescriptions, physical therapy, and future treatment needs.
- Lost income or reduced earning capacity: If you missed work or can’t return to the same job, your claim can account for those wage losses and long-term impacts.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages may compensate you for physical pain, emotional distress, and the day-to-day disruption caused by your injuries.
- Loss of companionship: In certain cases, damages may address the impact the injuries have on your relationship with your spouse or partner.
- Wrongful death damages: If a loved one was killed, a wrongful death case can seek damages such as funeral costs and the loss of financial support.
- Bicycle or property damage: This can include repair or replacement of your bike, helmet, electronics, and other damaged personal property.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may also have options through uninsured motorist coverage, depending on your auto policy and the facts of the crash.
Our team ensures every aspect of your losses is carefully evaluated and included in your claim to help you move forward without undue financial strain. Whether you have experienced a loss of earnings or are worried about medical bills, we help to ease this stress and give you peace of mind.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
The steps you take immediately after a bike accident can significantly affect your ability to seek compensation.
- Seek medical care immediately, even if you think you’re “okay,” because symptoms can worsen or appear days later.
- Report the crash to the police so there is an official record and, when possible, obtain the report number.
- Document the scene by taking photos of your bike, the vehicle involved, your injuries, and the road conditions.
- Collect witness and driver information, including names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
- Write down your recollection immediately while details like traffic signals, vehicle movements, and what was said are still fresh.
Most importantly, reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the complexities of the legal process.
What if I Was Hit by a Hit-and-Run Driver?
The adrenaline, confusion, and chaos that comes with a bicycle accident can only worsen once you realize the other driver has fled. If you’re involved in an accident with a hit-and-run driver, it’s vital you:
- Note down as many details of the car, including license plate, make, and model
- Report the crash to the police
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible
- Reach out to your own insurance to see if you can use your UM/UIM insurance coverage to cover your medical costs and property damage
- Talk with a California bicycle accident attorney
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage is a form of coverage that your insurance provides to help cover some of the costs that come after you’re in an accident with an uninsured, underinsured, or hit-and-run driver.
This insurance coverage is typically used for drivers, but it can be used for bicyclists involved in an accident as well.
Hit by a fleeing driver and dealing with insurance issues? The BD&J attorneys will help you in a claim against another driver or an insurance company.
Why You Should Never Accept the Insurance Company’s First Offer
If an insurance company offers you money right away, it’s often because they want to close your claim before you understand the full cost of your injuries or reach MMI. Early offers commonly undervalue future medical care, time off work, and the lasting impact of your injuries, and once you accept and sign, you may be stuck.
Adjusters may also push for a recorded statement that can be used to minimize your injuries or shift blame. And when you accept a settlement, you typically sign a release that can waive future claims, even if you later learn you need surgery, extended rehabilitation, or long-term care. Before you agree to anything, we can review the offer and protect you from being pressured into a lowball settlement.
Why Choose BD&J as Your California Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Don’t give in to persistent insurance adjusters who look to overwhelm you while you navigate both alegal claim and recovery on your own. The BD&J law firm is in your corner.
We help:
- Investigate the crash: We help secure video, physical evidence, and other time-sensitive proof while it still exists.
- Collect police and medical records: We obtain the documents that insurers and defense attorneys rely on, and we make sure they accurately reflect what happened to you.
- Interview witnesses: We identify and speak with the people who saw the crash to preserve their statements.
- Coordinate experts: When needed, we work with accident reconstruction, medical, and financial experts to prove fault and damages.
- Handle insurance communications: We take over calls, emails, and negotiations so you can focus on recovery.
- Evaluate and negotiate settlements: We manage bicycle accident insurance claims and push back against low offers using evidence, expert support, and a clear valuation of your case.
- File a lawsuit and litigate when necessary: If the insurer won’t be fair, we are prepared to take your case to court.
- Provide contingency fee representation: You pay no upfront fees, and we only get paid if we win compensation for you.
How to Get Started on Your Claim with BD&J
Let a team of legal advocates fight for you. Get started on your personal injury claim after a bike accident in California with the following steps:
- Be upfront about the accident events – Tell us what happened and where you received medical care.
- Let our attorneys view your options – Let us review the facts, the injuries, and any insurance coverage available.
- Trust your claim is in the right hands with BD&J – We step in to protect your claim and start building the case.
When you’re injured and overwhelmed, you deserve a legal team with the experience and resources to take on the insurance company and fight for the result you need. BD&J is ready to fight for you with 20+ years of experience, more than $3 billion* recovered, and 24/7 availability, starting with a free, confidential evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Have to Go to the Hospital if I’m Feeling Ok After an Accident?
Yes, it is necessary to go to the hospital after an accident, even if you’re feeling ok, because some injuries take longer to show symptoms. Delaying or ignoring medical treatment can also hurt your potential claim and minimize your injuries.
What if My Injuries Didn’t Show Up Until Weeks After an Accident?
Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or certain spine injuries, can take days to manifest symptoms. Fortunately, the legal doctrine of tolling can push back the clock to file a claim starting from when your injuries first show symptoms.
What if I Was Hit by a Rideshare Driver?
Depending on whether they were logged onto the rideshare app while driving or doing a job assignment for the platform, this can affect where you may receive compensation from. Talk to a BD&J rideshare accident attorney to learn more.
Is the Driver Always at Fault in a California Bicycle Accident?
No. Fault depends on the evidence. California uses pure comparative fault, so responsibility can be shared and you may still recover damages even if you were partly at fault, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Can I Still Recover Compensation Even if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Absolutely. This is where comparative fault comes into play.
For example, if you are deemed 50% at fault for not wearing a helmet and worsening your injuries, you would still be able to recover the other 50% of the compensation amount offered.
What if the Insurance Company Offers Me a Settlement Right Away?
Be cautious. Early settlement offers are often designed to close the claim quickly and cheaply, and accepting may require you to sign a release that waives future claims. Having BD&J review the offer can help you avoid a lowball settlement and protect your right to full compensation.
Can I Recover Compensation if I Got Hurt While Avoiding a Collision?
If the vehicle that was about to strike you didn’t due to your actions, but you were still injured, you may be able to recover compensation through a claim due to their recklessness.
What Kind of Evidence Do I Need for My Claim?
Some evidence that can help your California bicycle accident case includes photos and videos of the accident, medical documentation of injuries, a police report, pay stubs that verify your income and job role, and any insurance documentation as well.
Is There Anything I Should Avoid Saying After a Bicycle Accident?
After you’ve been hurt in a bicycle accident, you’ll want to avoid apologizing or saying any statements that admit fault, such as “I came out of nowhere” or “I should’ve checked for cars”. These statements can immediately place liability on you and minimize the role of the other driver.
While it may seem like the polite or automatic thing to do, you’ll want to keep your statements neutral and to the point.
What Does it Cost to Hire a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer from BD&J?
BD&J handles bicycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay upfront attorney’s fees.
How Do Contingency Fees Work?
Through a contingency fee structure, all case costs are advanced to you. Final attorney fees are collected from the settlement amount after your claim is compensated, which means no fees until we win* your case.
Contact BD&J to Get Started
When a bike accident leaves you injured, you need an expert California law firm in your corner. This is where BD&J can help.
Contact us now to get started on your claim. We’re available 24/7 throughout California, and if you can’t make it to us, we’ll make it to you.
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