What You Should Know About a California Bicycle vs. Auto Accident
If you are one of the estimated 50 million Americans who use a bicycle regularly, you are likely aware that southern California has an abundance of great places to enjoy a ride. With plenty of bicycle lanes and a heightened public awareness of sharing the road with cyclists, cycling in California offers many perks. Despite this, cycling alongside large motor vehicles carries inherent risks. Therefore, the potential for a serious injury can never be ignored. If you have sustained an injury after your bicycle was struck by a motor vehicle, you may be entitled to receive monetary compensation for the damages you sustained.
Recent California Bicycle Accident & Injury Statistics
According to a report published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the State of California was the second state with the highest number of cycling accident casualties in 2017. If you live in southern California and use a bicycle regularly, this data cannot be overlooked.
According to the California Department of Public Health, the following statistics project cycling traffic injuries and casualties in 2018:
- Roughly 30% of injuries took place in the afternoon
- 4% of traffic-related casualties in the state were cyclists
- 77% of bicyclists that were injured in a traffic accident were male
- A majority of injuries, roughly over one-third of the total, occurred in the summer months
Statewide Bicycle Laws in California
As stated by the League of American Bicyclists, the State of California is one of the top three cycling-friendly states in the nation. In great part, this is due to the immense amount of funding the state has invested in cycling lanes, statewide policies, education, and other measures taken to promote the activity.
Cycling laws in the state generally provide bicycle riders with the same rights as motor vehicle drivers, ultimately also giving them the same responsibilities as well. Bicycle riders in the state will need to maintain their bike in order to ensure it is safe for riding. Additionally, it is unlawful to ride a bicycle when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Cycling enthusiasts who ride at night will need to have a headlight as well as have visible reflectors attached to their bicycle. Moreover, pedestrians must also be given the right-of-way when applicable.
After a California Bicycle Accident, Obtain the Monetary Compensation You Deserve
If you were involved in a bicycle vs. auto accident, you should know that there are state laws that protect your rights as a victim. When in an accident, there is a potential for various liable parties; seeking skilled legal representation can help you obtain the financial restitution you truly deserve.
Attorney Scot T. Moga has over 25 Years defending the rights of those who have been injured as a result of negligence. When you are injured in a cycling accident, your injuries may affect you for many years to come. For many accident victims, one of the biggest challenges faced is the inability to cover necessary medical expenses. By filing a personal injury claim, you may have the opportunity to obtain the restitution you deserve. Consult the legal support of a qualified personal injury attorney.
Scot Thomas Moga, a dedicated attorney in San Bernardino & Riverside Counties who represents clients in the many types of personal injury, workers’ compensation and estate planning cases.
