Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
Learn your next steps here and get the maximum compensation with our step-by-step walkthrough
Your safety should be your top priority
If you are not too injured, take good pictures of the scene and some videos if you can
Ensure to collect at least the driver’s name, address, and date of birth alongside their license number and state
Call 911 immediately and contact the local police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
Reach out to your agent and/or your insurance company immediately
Contact your lawyer as soon as possible
Experienced bicycle accident lawyers can help you pursue the full compensation you are owed for your hospital bills, missed income, and other losses. It can be challenging to go toe-to-toe with large insurance companies and come away with fair settlements.
San Francisco’s vibrant streets, diverse communities, and fast-paced lifestyle make it an exciting place to live and explore. But with the city’s dense traffic, busy intersections, and distracted drivers, bicycle accidents remain a pressing issue. Negligent motorists and other roadway hazards can lead to serious, sometimes catastrophic, injuries, leaving victims and their families facing overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Whether it’s being struck while legally crossing at an intersection or a hit-and-run incident, these events can have a profoundly devastating impact on lives.
Navigating a bicycle accident claim in San Francisco can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical expenses, physical therapy, and long-term recovery. Many injured bicyclists are entitled to seek financial compensation to cover hospital costs, missed wages, and the emotional distress caused by the accident. Having an experienced legal advocate on your side can be crucial in pursuing the justice and support you deserve.
This guide provides essential information about different types of bicycle accident claims, the available compensation, and the critical steps to protect your rights. With the proper knowledge and legal representation from a bicycle accident attorney in San Francisco, you can act and work toward rebuilding your future.
San Francisco continues to experience some of the highest bicycle accident rates in San Francisco. With its busy streets, dense neighborhoods, and numerous bicyclists walking to work, school, or transit, incidents involving bicycles remain a serious public safety concern. Each year, countless bicycles suffer injuries after being struck by vehicles, often leading to life-threatening or fatal outcomes.
Key data highlights the extent of the problem:
Recognizing these statistics is crucial for promoting public awareness and safer practices for both bicycles and motorists alike.
Numerous factors contribute to bicycle accidents across San Francisco. While negligent driving remains the most significant contributor, environmental hazards and bicycle behavior also play crucial roles in the overall safety of the roads.
Frequent causes include:
A major cause of bicycle collisions is distracted driving, which occurs when motorists divert their attention away from the roadway to check their phones, adjust vehicle controls, or engage in other activities. Even a brief lapse in concentration can result in severe consequences for individuals walking near or across streets.
Speeding drivers have reduced the time to notice and respond to bicycles at crosswalks or intersections. The faster a vehicle is traveling, the greater the force of impact, often leading to serious or even fatal injuries for those on foot.
Many bicycle incidents in San Francisco occur at marked crosswalks or busy intersections, where drivers often fail to yield to bicycles. Whether due to distraction, impatience, or a lack of understanding of traffic regulations, this behavior significantly increases the risk of accidents.
Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs severely limits a driver’s ability to react, judge distances, and see bicycles clearly. Crashes involving intoxicated drivers frequently result in devastating harm to those walking nearby.
Foggy conditions, rain, poorly lit streets, and insufficient street lighting reduce visibility for drivers. Bicycles dressed in dark clothing during nighttime hours face even higher chances of not being noticed by vehicles.
Crossing streets outside designated crosswalks or ignoring traffic signals increases the danger to bicycles. Although drivers are expected to remain vigilant, sudden and unpredictable bicycle movement can easily lead to accidents.
Broken bicycle signals, worn-out crosswalk markings, or streets lacking adequate bicycle-friendly design create hazardous conditions for bicycles. In some cases, city officials or agencies may be held responsible if poor road infrastructure contributes to a bicycle accident.
Understanding these common causes allows both residents and city leaders to work toward safer streets for everyone.
Bicycle accidents in San Francisco frequently cause serious, life-altering injuries due to the lack of protection for those on foot. These types of injuries often require significant medical care, lengthy rehabilitation, and sometimes lifelong treatment.
Common injuries include:
Bicycles struck by vehicles may suffer from concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can lead to memory loss, cognitive issues, and lasting disabilities.
When a bicycle is hit by a car, spinal damage is typical. These injuries can result in paralysis, chronic pain, or restricted mobility, sometimes requiring lifelong care
The impact from a vehicle can cause multiple broken bones, often needing surgical procedures, casting, and months of physical therapy to regain full function.
Severe blunt force trauma can result in internal bleeding, punctured lungs, or serious injury to organs like the liver or kidneys, which can be life-threatening without immediate medical attention.
Deep cuts, torn ligaments, and muscle injuries can leave victims with permanent scars and long-term limitations in movement.
Sadly, many bicycle accidents in San Francisco result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with the emotional devastation and the financial burdens that follow.
Following a bicycle accident in San Francisco, individuals often face serious, long-lasting obstacles on the road to recovery. From debilitating physical injuries to emotional trauma and financial instability, adjusting to life after such an incident can be incredibly overwhelming. Recognizing these long-term effects is essential for victims and their families to prepare, seek proper support, and pursue the help they deserve.
These tests evaluate muscle strength, reflexes, and sensation in different parts of the body. Doctors use them to determine the extent of spinal cord damage and whether it affects motor or sensory pathways. Regular monitoring helps track changes and guide treatment decisions.
The shock and trauma of being struck by a vehicle can lead to significant psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Addressing emotional recovery is just as vital as physical healing, often requiring professional counseling or therapy.
Many injured bicyclists experience financial strain due to an inability to work during recovery. The loss of income, coupled with medical expenses, can place victims and their families under severe economic pressure, especially when the accident results from the negligence of another party.
In numerous cases, bicycle accident survivors need long-term care, which may include rehabilitation services, medications, mobility aids, or home modifications. These ongoing medical costs can accumulate quickly and are not always fully covered by insurance.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a bicycle accident in San Francisco, taking the correct steps right away is essential to protect your health, legal rights, and any potential claims for compensation.
Take the following actions immediately after the incident:
Specific injuries, such as internal trauma or head injuries, may not show symptoms right away but can become life-threatening if untreated. Seeking immediate medical attention ensures all injuries are correctly identified and documented, which is also critical for supporting legal claims. Prompt care can help prevent complications and improve your chances of full recovery. Even seemingly minor injuries should be assessed to avoid hidden long-term effects.
Contacting the police ensures that an official report of the accident is created. The police report will include key details such as witness statements, driver information, and contributing factors. This report serves as vital evidence if you decide to file an insurance claim or lawsuit. Without it, proving responsibility can become significantly harder.
Take clear photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, visible damage, crosswalks, traffic signals, and road conditions. If possible, also take photographs of your injuries. This visual evidence helps document the incident and strengthens your case. Nearby businesses, street cameras, or dashcams may also have video footage that can be valuable.
If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information and a brief statement about what they saw. Neutral witness accounts can offer an objective perspective that supports your version of events. Their statements can play a crucial role in resolving disputes over fault, particularly in legal proceedings.
Even a polite apology could be misinterpreted as an admission of fault. Avoid making statements that may be used against you by insurers or the opposing party’s legal team. Stick to factual information when speaking with the police and avoid speculating. Consulting a lawyer before making detailed statements can help protect your rights and interests.
A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. They can also handle negotiations with insurance providers to ensure you aren’t pressured into accepting an unfair settlement. Legal experts can help determine whether other parties, such as the city of San Francisco, share responsibility for unsafe street conditions or faulty infrastructure. Acting quickly preserves crucial evidence and ensures you meet critical deadlines for filing a claim
San Francisco has some of the strongest bicycle protection laws in the nation. Being familiar with these rules is crucial for anyone involved in a bicycle accident in San Francisco, as they can significantly affect who is held responsible and the outcome of a legal claim. Below is an overview of the most essential rights and obligations bicycles have under state and local law.
Motorists are legally required to yield to bicycles at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. This is a crucial component of San Francisco’s efforts to enhance bicycle safety and reduce accidents.
Bicycles must obey traffic signals, such as walk and don’t-walk indicators, and should avoid stepping into traffic unexpectedly. Failing to follow these rules can influence a bicycle’s ability to claim compensation after an accident.
Even when bicycles are crossing outside of designated crosswalks, drivers have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care to prevent a collision. This means motorists cannot simply disregard the presence of bicycles on the road.
If either the bicycle or the driver violates traffic laws, it may affect how fault is assigned and could impact the ability to recover damages. Understanding these rules is critical for protecting your legal rights after an accident.
Bicycle accidents can lead to life-changing consequences, including serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. Knowing your legal rights and options is essential to pursuing the compensation you deserve. Hiring an experienced bicycle accident attorney in San Francisco can provide the knowledgeable support you need to navigate these complex situations.
Bicycle accidents often involve complicated legal rules and insurance challenges. A knowledgeable lawyer with experience in San Francisco and San Francisco bicycle laws can guide you through the claims process and help ensure you don’t settle for less than your case is worth.
A qualified attorney will collect vital evidence, including video footage, police reports, medical records, and witness accounts, to build a strong case. This thorough investigation helps establish liability and supports your claim for rightful compensation.
Insurance companies frequently attempt to reduce payouts, offering settlements far below what victims deserve. An attorney will manage all communications with insurers, protecting your interests and working to secure fair compensation for medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.
With a San Francisco bike accident lawyer on your side, you have a better chance of securing the full settlement you’re entitled to. Your attorney will factor in both immediate and long-term expenses, including ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, or other future needs that may arise because of the accident.
Determining liability in bicycle accidents depends on several factors, such as local traffic laws, the actions of drivers, and the behavior of bicycles. In many cases, multiple parties may share responsibility, making fault assessments more complex.
Parties who may be held liable include:
A motorist who is speeding, distracted by a mobile device, or fails to obey traffic signals is frequently found to be responsible for bicycle accidents. Careless driving can often be proven with traffic camera footage, eyewitness accounts, and professional accident reconstructions.
Although bicycles generally have the right of way, they may share fault if they jaywalk, disobey traffic lights, or cross streets under unsafe conditions. In such situations, responsibility may be divided under San Francisco’s comparative fault laws, which can affect the amount of compensation.
Government entities responsible for street maintenance and traffic safety can be held accountable if poor road conditions, missing crosswalks, broken traffic signals, or other hazards contribute to a bicycle accident in San Francisco.
If a mechanical failure, such as defective brakes, malfunctioning headlights, or other equipment issues, plays a role in the accident, the car manufacturer or parts supplier may be liable for producing or distributing faulty products.
Determining faults in bicycle accidents often requires a detailed investigation, careful examination of traffic laws, and legal expertise to establish responsibility and pursue fair compensation properly.
Bicyclists who suffer injuries due to negligent drivers, dangerous road conditions, or defective infrastructure have the right to pursue financial compensation. The amount and type of compensation available depend on the seriousness of the injuries and the specific circumstances surrounding the incident.
Common types of compensation include:
This covers expenses related to emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment necessary for recovery. In severe cases, victims may require long-term physical therapy, assistive medical equipment, or home modifications to accommodate their injuries.
If injuries prevent the victim from working, they may be entitled to recover lost wages. In cases involving permanent disability, additional compensation may be awarded for reduced future earning potential and diminished ability to work.
Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the accident. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and reduced enjoyment of life are common after bicycle accidents and can have a lasting impact.
If belongings such as smartphones, eyeglasses, clothing, or medical devices are damaged during the accident, victims may seek reimbursement for repair or replacement expenses.
If a bicycle accident results in fatality, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral and burial expenses, as well as financial support, loss of companionship, and the emotional suffering caused by the loss of a loved one.
A skilled personal injury lawyer can help accident victims understand their legal rights, collect vital evidence, and handle negotiations with insurance companies to pursue the full compensation they deserve. Time is critical, as San Francisco law generally requires personal injury claims to be filed within two years of the accident.
The value of a bicycle accident claim in San Francisco depends on the unique circumstances of your case. Below, we outline the key factors that affect the potential compensation you may be entitled to, including medical expenses, injury severity, and other damages.
Several factors determine the worth of your case, including hospital bills, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and the overall impact of your injuries.
Bicycle accidents that result in serious injuries—such as fractures, spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries, or long-term disabilities—often lead to higher settlement amounts due to the need for ongoing medical care and income loss.
If a bicycle accident tragically results in death, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering. These claims can be complex and typically involve higher settlement values.
Since every bicycle accident case is different, it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney assess your situation. A knowledgeable accident attorney can help you understand your claim’s potential worth and fight for the compensation you deserve.
After a bicycle accident, navigating conversations with insurance companies can be a stressful and complicated process. Insurance representatives often work to minimize payouts or shift responsibility. Below are key tips to help protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Following a bicycle accident, insurance companies are typically more concerned with protecting their financial interests than with offering fair settlements. They may attempt to claim that the bicycle was partly or entirely responsible for the incident.
Insurance adjusters may present low settlement offers shortly after the accident. This is a common strategy to reduce the insurer’s financial liability. Accepting an early offer can leave victims without adequate compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, or future care.
Having an experienced lawyer by your side ensures that every aspect of your case is thoroughly addressed, from medical documentation to future expenses. An attorney can challenge the insurance company’s tactics and advocate for a fair and full settlement on your behalf.
A knowledgeable attorney can help gather vital evidence, including witness statements, traffic camera footage, accident reports, and medical records. This documentation strengthens your case and supports your right to fair compensation.
In San Francisco, strict legal deadlines apply to filing personal injury claims. Failing to act within these timeframes can prevent you from recovering compensation. Below are the key deadlines and statutes of limitations you need to know after a bicycle accident in San Francisco.
Under San Francisco law, you have two years from the date of the bicycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline applies to most accidents that do not involve a government agency or a public entity.
If your accident involved a government agency, such as a city-owned vehicle or dangerous public property, you must submit a formal claim within six months of the incident. Missing this deadline can permanently prevent you from pursuing compensation.
Failing to meet these legal deadlines can result in losing your right to seek damages entirely. Taking swift action and consulting with a knowledgeable attorney ensures all necessary claims are filed on time, preserving your ability to pursue fair compensation.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, an experienced bicycle accident attorney in San Francisco can guide you through the legal process and help ensure you meet all critical deadlines.
In San Francisco, strict legal deadlines apply to filing personal injury claims. Failing to act within these timeframes can prevent you from recovering compensation. Below are the key deadlines and statutes of limitations you need to know after a bicycle accident in San Francisco.
The time it takes to resolve a case depends on multiple factors, including the complexity of the accident, the clarity of fault, and the length of necessary medical treatment.
When both parties agree on a settlement, the case may be resolved within a few months. However, if the case proceeds to court, it can take a year or longer, especially if there are multiple hearings, negotiations, or a trial.
While it’s natural to want a fast resolution, it’s crucial to allow enough time for proper medical evaluations and legal processes to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.
A skilled attorney will keep you informed throughout each stage of your case, providing honest expectations and updates so you understand the likely timeline for resolution.
Worrying about legal costs should never prevent you from getting the help you need after a bicycle accident. Many personal injury attorneys in San Francisco use a contingency fee structure, meaning you only pay if your case is successful. This approach makes legal representation more accessible, allowing you to prioritize your recovery without the pressure of upfront expenses.
Most bicycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only receive payment if they successfully resolve your case. This eliminates the stress of paying legal fees upfront, making it easier to pursue justice.companies often offer quick payouts before the full extent of your injuries is known. Accepting too soon could leave you without funds for long-term care. Always review offers with a legal expert before agreeing.
With contingency agreements, you won’t need to pay attorney fees or legal costs out-of-pocket at the start. Instead, the lawyer’s fees are deducted from any settlement or court-awarded compensation you receive.
The attorney’s fee is generally calculated as a percentage of the total compensation recovered. This means your lawyer is motivated to secure the best possible outcome, as their payment depends on the success of your case.
Hiring a trusted San Francisco bicycle accident attorney on a contingency basis gives you the legal support you need without added financial strain.
California cyclists in San Francisco face a mix of heavy traffic, varied terrain, and unpredictable road conditions, making safety a top priority. Following smart safety practices not only reduces the risk of accidents but also strengthens your case if you’re ever involved in a collision. Here are important safety tips tailored for San Francisco bike riders:
While helmets are only legally required for riders under 18, all cyclists benefit from the added protection. A helmet can significantly reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury in the event of a crash. Make sure your helmet fits snugly and meets U.S. safety certification standards.
California law requires a front white light and rear red reflector or light when biking after dark. Wearing bright or reflective clothing makes you more visible to drivers and helps prevent collisions. This is especially important in urban areas with heavy traffic and limited bike infrastructure.
Cyclists must follow the same rules as motorists, including stopping at red lights and riding in the direction of traffic. Disregarding traffic laws not only puts you at risk but can also hurt your case in an accident. Consistent, lawful riding helps build your credibility if you’re injured and need to file a claim.
Signal your turns and lane changes clearly so drivers and pedestrians know what to expect. Sudden or unpredictable movements can confuse motorists and increase your risk of getting hit. Consistent, predictable behavior makes it easier for others to share the road with you safely.
Many bike accidents in San Francisco happen when vehicles turn or pull out unexpectedly, especially in intersections or from driveways. Always slow down and make eye contact with drivers when possible to confirm they see you. Even when you have the right of way, defensive riding can prevent serious injuries.
Keeping your bike in good working condition helps prevent mechanical failures that could lead to a crash. Check brakes, tires, gears, and lights before each ride, especially if you’re commuting or traveling long distances. A well-maintained bike gives you better control and improves overall safety on San Francisco’s busy roads.
At RMD Law, their priority is helping you through the overwhelming aftermath of a bicycle accident. Their dedicated legal team guides medical treatment, insurance negotiations, and legal challenges, all with the goal of helping you rebuild your life. With a no-win, no-fee guarantee, RMD Law ensures you have access to quality legal representation without an added financial burden. They are committed to protecting your rights, pursuing fair compensation, and helping you move forward with confidence.
San Francisco and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of attractions and activities, perfect for both locals and visitors seeking to explore Northern California’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.
San Francisco’s food scene is a testament to its diverse culture, offering an array of dining experiences to satisfy every palate.
At RMD Law, we believe that reputation is everything. When clients trust us with their cases, we do everything in our power to help guide them. That means personal service and sharp advocacy. We care about the details of your case because that is how we can get you the best settlement.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident in San Francisco, a qualified attorney can evaluate your situation by considering several important factors, such as:
San Francisco uses a comparative fault system, which means you may still be eligible for compensation even if you share some responsibility for the accident. However, the amount you receive may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Yes, victims of bicycle accidents and their families may be entitled to seek compensation for emotional harm, which may include:
Consulting an experienced bicycle accident lawyer in San Francisco can ensure your legal rights are protected and that you pursue all available forms of compensation.
Here’s why our clients rely on our legal team to handle their wrongful death claims:
With the city’s growing network of bike lanes and trails, more residents are choosing bicycles and e-bikes for commuting and recreation. However, an increase in bicycle-related accidents has highlighted the importance of knowing and following bicycle laws.
Orange County officials are rolling out new e-bike laws to protect riders, pedestrians, and others. In this article, we’ll break down the new Orange County e-bike laws, why they’re being introduced, and how they could impact personal injury claims and the timeframe for filing a bicycle crash claim.
What’s the most bike-friendly city in the U.S.? While Minneapolis and New York rank high on the list, San Francisco in California takes the cake—and
Over $200,000,000 total recent personal injury wins for our clients. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers are eager to fight for you.
RMD Law found an insurance code violation by the defense insurance company in a dog bite injury case. With smart lawyering, we used the violation to argue that the $100,000 policy limits no longer applied.
The insurance company wrongfully refused to pay our client the $100k policy limit in a rollover auto accident. RMD Law refused to take no for an answer, and filed a lawsuit alleging bad faith, ultimately winning millions for our deserving client.
Confidential bad faith settlement – a negligent driver t-boned our client at a red light resulting in severe spinal injuries. The defendant’s insurance company unreasonably refused to pay the $100K policy limit. RMD Law filed a lawsuit seeking the true value of the case. Policy was opened, and the client settled for an amount vastly higher than the original limits.
We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Ryan is a caring and experienced litigator. He defended scores of depositions and understands what it takes to move a case in California.
Ariana Martin is one of RMD Law’s skilled personal injury lawyers. She brings a lot of legal experience to the table, having worked previously in the field of insurance defense.
RMD Law is a California Personal Injury law firm. We help victims who have been injured in accidents due to someone else’s negligence. RMD Law offers free no-obligation case evaluations for our clients.
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