California has specific laws that protect cyclists and help determine liability in the event of an accident. These laws govern how cyclists should interact with other vehicles on the road and what rights they have if involved in an accident.
If you were struck by a negligent motorist while riding your bike, the experienced bicycle accident lawyers at Avaness Law can help you navigate the complexities of California’s laws to secure the compensation you deserve.
Let’s take a closer look at how the legal team at Avaness Law can assist you after a bicycle accident.
What Are the Main Bicycle Laws in California?
California is known for its progressive cycling laws, designed to protect cyclists and ensure their safety while sharing the road with motor vehicles. In California, cyclists are granted many of the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, which helps to create a safer, more equitable environment for both motorists and cyclists.
Below are the key aspects of California’s bicycle laws that every cyclist should know:
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Riding in the Same Direction as Traffic
Under California law, cyclists are required to ride in the same direction as vehicular traffic. This is essential for maintaining order on the road and ensuring that cyclists are visible to other drivers. Cyclists riding against traffic pose a higher risk of accidents, as drivers are not anticipating them approaching from the opposite direction.
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Obeying Traffic Signals and Signs
Just like motorists, cyclists must obey traffic signals, stop signs, and other traffic control devices. This includes stopping at red lights, yielding at stop signs, and following all road signs related to cycling. Cyclists are also required to signal their turns, using hand signals to indicate their intentions to others on the road. These laws are in place to reduce confusion and make it clear to both cyclists and drivers what each party intends to do.
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Use of Bike Lanes and Shoulders
Whenever a bike lane is available, cyclists are required to use it. California law allows cyclists to ride in bike lanes, which are designated spaces on the road intended specifically for bicycle traffic. However, if no bike lane is available, cyclists are permitted to ride on the road itself, typically along the right side. When riding on roads without bike lanes, cyclists are also allowed to use the shoulder of the road. This provides additional safety by giving cyclists more space to maneuver away from traffic.
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Riding Two Abreast
In California, cyclists are generally allowed to ride side by side, or “two abreast,” in a bike lane or on the roadway. However, they must ride in a manner that does not impede traffic. While riding two abreast is permitted, cyclists must move to single file if it is necessary to allow vehicles to pass safely, especially on narrower roads.
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Helmet Use for Minors
California law mandates that all cyclists under the age of 18 must wear a helmet while riding. While helmets are not legally required for adults, wearing one is strongly recommended for safety reasons. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries in the event of a fall or collision.
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Motorist’s Duty to Yield
California Vehicle Code Section 21200.5 explicitly prohibits motorists from endangering cyclists by failing to yield the right of way or acting recklessly. This law is crucial for ensuring that drivers understand their obligation to safely share the road with cyclists. For example, motorists must give cyclists enough space when passing (at least 3 feet), and they must yield to cyclists when making turns or entering an intersection.
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Cyclist’s Right to Full Lane Use
Cyclists have the right to use the full lane when necessary. For instance, when the roadway is too narrow for both a bicycle and a car to safely pass side by side, a cyclist can take the full lane. Cyclists are not required to ride in the gutter or on the far right side of the road if doing so would be unsafe. This law helps to protect cyclists by allowing them to maintain a safe position on the road when the conditions require it.
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Prohibiting Dangerous or Disruptive Behavior
Cyclists are prohibited from engaging in dangerous riding behaviors, such as riding without hands on the handlebars, riding at excessive speeds, or swerving in and out of traffic. Additionally, riders must not use electronic devices or headphones that would impair their ability to hear or pay attention to their surroundings.
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Lighting and Visibility Requirements
California law requires that cyclists use lights and reflectors to make themselves visible at night or in low-light conditions. A white front light and a red rear reflector or light are required for cyclists riding after dark. This law is designed to make cyclists more visible to motorists and reduce the risk of nighttime collisions.
What Are My Rights as a Cyclist Involved in an Accident?
As a cyclist involved in an accident, you have the right to seek compensation for injuries if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence. California law allows cyclists to file a personal injury claim against the responsible party, whether that is a motorist, a company, or another entity. Your rights also extend to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, as well as pain and suffering.
How Can I File a Liability Claim After a Bike Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, filing a liability claim begins with gathering evidence. This includes police reports, eyewitness testimony, photographs of the scene, and medical records. At Avaness Law, our bicycle accident attorneys will guide you through the process of collecting the necessary documentation and help you file your claim with the insurance company.
It’s important to note that California follows comparative negligence rules, meaning that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation based on the percentage of fault assigned to the other party. At Avaness Law, we can assess your case and determine the appropriate approach for your situation.
What Damages Can I Claim if Injured While Cycling?
Cyclists involved in accidents can claim various types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes immediate emergency care, ongoing treatments, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If the injury causes you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost income.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
- Property damage: If your bicycle was damaged, you could recover its repair or replacement costs.
- Long-term care costs: In cases of severe injury, you may be entitled to compensation for long-term medical care or adjustments to your lifestyle, such as mobility aids.
A bicycle accident lawyer at Avaness Law will work diligently to calculate the full extent of your damages and ensure you’re compensated fairly.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident?
After a bike accident, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Report the accident: Call the police and file a report, which can be crucial for any insurance claims or legal action.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Get contact information: Collect contact details from witnesses and the involved motorist, including their insurance information.
- Consult an attorney: Contact a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.
At Avaness Law, our bike accident lawyers can meet with you to discuss your case and your legal rights. We will go over your legal options and help you determine the best course of action, moving forward.
How Is Liability Determined in Bike Accident Cases?
Liability in bicycle accident cases is typically determined by evaluating the evidence surrounding the incident. This includes traffic laws, witness testimony, police reports, and any available video footage. In California, the negligent party can be held responsible for damages, whether they are a motorist who failed to yield or another party whose actions caused the crash. At Avaness Law, our bicycle accident lawyers have the experience and resources to investigate your case thoroughly and hold the responsible party accountable.
Where Can I Find Legal Assistance for Bicycle-Related Claims?
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, you must take legal action as soon as possible. The experienced bicycle accident attorneys at Avaness Law specialize in handling cycling-related claims and will fight for the compensation you deserve. We have a proven track record of helping injured cyclists and will work tirelessly on your behalf.
No Fees Unless We Win – Schedule Your Free Consultation!
At Avaness Law, we understand that dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer free consultations to discuss your case. You won’t pay any fees unless we win your case. Our team of dedicated bicycle accident lawyers is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
