Bicycle Accidents

San Diego Bicycle Accident Liability Claim

Bicycle riders are at particular risk for collisions and falls. As cyclists are essentially unprotected, even a low impact collision has the potential for serious injury. Laws in California requiring anyone under the age of 18 to use protective helmets have reduced the incidence of fatalities from head injuries in children, but adult bicyclists remain vulnerable to injuries, many of which are life-threatening or life altering.

Collisions with motor vehicles present the greatest threat for serious injury to bicycle riders. Over the past 10 years, as cycling becomes increasingly popular among adults, both for exercise and as a mode of transportation, the number of adult cyclist fatalities and injuries has increased proportionately.

While bicyclists and drivers of motor vehicles have similar legal responsibilities, bicyclists also have specific rights and protections under the California Vehicle Code and the California Streets and Highways Code, such as the restricted right of way in designated bicycle paths, lanes and routes. Studies have shown that bicyclists who share the roadway with motor vehicles are typically alert and take special care when making turns, accelerating or braking, but the majority of collisions between bicycles and motor vehicles occur when a motorist fails to yield the right of way, especially at an intersection.

You may also have a liability claim against an entity that controls or maintains the roadway if you have been injured as a result of a hazardous condition such as debris, potholes, or poorly maintained roads or parking lots. Injuries can also be caused by manufacturing or design defects in your bicycle or by faulty safety equipment, in which instance you may have a claim against the manufacturer, assembler, distributor or seller.