Orange County Bicycle and E-Bike Accidents Lawyer

If you’ve been in a bicycle accident, it is crucial to know your rights and to get your rightful compensation. Negligent drivers are one of the most common culprits in such accidents, meaning that they are liable alongside the driver’s insurance company. If you or a loved one have been involved in a bicycle accident, call us at (949) 771-4188 for a free consultation.

Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents occur under a wide variety of circumstances. Often times there is a motor vehicle involved and in these cases, the driver is more often than not liable for the cyclist’s damages. Under the California Vehicle Code, motorists have a duty of care towards cyclists at all times. Below is a list of the common causes of bicycle accidents.

Dooring

A dooring accident is when a motorist or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, causing a collision. These accidents typically happen when a person in a parked or stopped vehicle fails to check for approaching bicycles before opening their door.

In these cases, the driver or passenger in the car is responsible to check their surroundings for oncoming cyclists and traffic prior to opening their door. When the driver or passenger fails to do so, they are liable for the cyclist’s damages.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is at an all-time high in the United States, thanks to the prevalence of cell phones and technology. Drivers breach their duty of care when they are distracted, putting others on the road in harm’s way. For bicycle accidents, this frequently occurs when a distracted driver veers off of their designated lane and onto the shoulder where a cyclist is present.

Failure to Yield

Often times, bicycle accidents are caused by careless drivers who fail to yield to a cyclist, particularly on a left or right-hand turn. A driver’s failure to yield or fully stop is a breach of their duty of care, and they can be held liable in these cases for the cyclist’s damages. These types of accidents commonly lead to severe injuries given the level of impact and the relative position of the bicycle and motor vehicle at time of impact.

Defective Roads and Sidewalks

Potholes, pavement cracks or debris on roads and sidewalks can pose a serious danger to cyclists. These dangers can force cyclists into vehicle lanes, increasing the risk of an accident. Such defects are often difficult for a cyclist to anticipate due to their speed, lack of visibility, and natural factors (e.g., potholes filled with water or covered by leaves).

Similarly, defective sidewalks can cause serious injury to cyclists. Cracks, uneven surfaces, tree roots, and a lack of maintenance are common culprits. In these cases, compensation may be sought after the relevant property owner, and even governmental entities including the city, county, and state of California.

What to Do If I am In a Bicycle Accident?

If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, the most crucial step to take is to move yourself out of harm’s way, especially if you are in the path of oncoming traffic. Additionally, what you do in the moments after your accident will affect the success of your case. Below are key steps to take if you are involved in a bicycle accident:

1. Get out of harm’s way. If you are struck by a vehicle and are in the middle of the road or in an area of oncoming traffic, move to a point of safety like the sidewalk, or the road’s shoulder.
2. Dial 911 and request medical assistance if necessary.
3. Provide an accurate and complete statement to the police and other authorities responding to the call. It’s important to communicate any injuries and property damage sustained, and to recall what transpired leading up to the accident.
4. Take photos and videos of everything. This includes your injuries, your bicycle, motor vehicles, the accident scene, drivers licenses, insurance, and registration.
5. File a police report. If officers are called to the scene, they can assist. Under California law, one must file a police report within 24 hours of a car accident.
6. Speak to witnesses and get their contact information. This will greatly assist in supporting your claim. Send a confirmation text to the witnesses to ensure you have their correct phone number.
7. Visit a doctor immediately.
8. Call us at (949) 771-4188 – we will evaluate your claim for free and can direct you to the proper medical providers for treatment.

Bicycle Accident Injuries

Common bicycle accident injuries include:

• Broken or fractured bones
• Torn ligaments
• Strained muscles
• Internal bleeding
• Traumatic brain injury
• Road rash
• Damage to internal organs
• Injuries to the spinal cord and neck, which may lead to paralysis

What Damages Can I Recover For A Bicycle Accident?

If you have been in a bicycle accident, you can be compensated for your damages sustained, including:

• Medical bills (hospitalization, emergency room visit, surgeries, and other medical treatment)
• Lost wages, both current and in the future
• Pain and suffering, including any emotional or psychological trauma
• Damage to your bicycle

If you or a loved one have been involved in a bicycle accident, call us at (949) 771-4188 for a free consultation.