From day one to the outcome, we fight for your rights with clear advice, strong representation, and a sharp focus on getting the results you need. Your recovery isn't just a goal—it's our mission.
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.
California’s busy roadways and expanding neighborhoods make it a popular place for cyclists, but bicycle accidents continue to pose serious threats to public safety. Careless drivers, poorly designed infrastructure, and various other hazards can cause severe physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens for victims and their families. From crashes at busy intersections to hit-and-run accidents and collisions with distracted drivers, these incidents often result in long-lasting, sometimes permanent, consequences.
Navigating a bicycle accident claim in California can be overwhelming—especially when ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, or extended support is required. Injured cyclists may be entitled to financial compensation that addresses medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Working with an experienced California bicycle accident attorney can greatly improve your chances of securing the compensation needed for a full recovery.
This guide outlines the key types of bicycle accident claims, the forms of compensation that may be available, and the important steps to take when pursuing legal action in California. Understanding your rights under state law can empower you to make informed decisions and focus on both your physical and emotional healing.
California consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of bicycle accidents each year. Reviewing recent statistics offers valuable insight into when and where crashes are most likely to happen—and who is most at risk.
Bike accidents in California are often preventable, yet they continue to happen due to a combination of driver behavior and road hazards. Understanding the most common causes can help cyclists and motorists stay alert and avoid dangerous situations.
One of the most frequent causes of bike crashes in California is when drivers fail to yield to cyclists, especially at intersections or during left-hand turns. Cyclists are often overlooked because drivers don’t expect them or misjudge their speed. This failure to yield can result in serious side-impact collisions. California law requires drivers to treat bicycles as vehicles, but this rule is often ignored in practice.
Motorists using cell phones, adjusting their GPS, or simply not paying attention pose a major threat to cyclists. A driver glancing down for even a second can completely miss a rider in a bike lane or crossing an intersection. Distracted driving is one of the top causes of preventable traffic injuries and deaths in the state. The lack of physical protection for cyclists means even minor distractions can lead to devastating consequences.
Drivers traveling over the speed limit have less time to react and are less likely to notice cyclists, particularly in urban areas or near schools. Higher speeds not only increase the chance of a crash but also make the impact more severe when it does occur. Even a 5–10 mph difference can be the difference between life and death for a cyclist. Despite posted speed limits, many California drivers exceed safe speeds in areas with heavy bike traffic.
Damaged pavement, potholes, loose gravel, or faded bike lane markings can force cyclists to swerve or lose control. In many California cities, infrastructure for bicycles lags behind car-oriented road design, leaving riders exposed. Debris or uneven pavement may not affect vehicles, but can be dangerous or even deadly for someone on two wheels. Municipalities may be liable if poor maintenance contributes to a crash.
Many bicycle accidents occur during dawn, dusk, or nighttime when visibility is reduced. Cyclists without proper lighting or reflective gear are harder for drivers to see, especially in areas with limited street lighting. California law requires certain lighting equipment for nighttime riding, but compliance is not always consistent. Drivers also play a role by failing to scan for cyclists in darker or low-visibility conditions.
A driver or passenger opening a car door into a cyclist’s path—known as “dooring”—is a surprisingly common urban hazard. These incidents typically happen in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, where parked cars line busy streets. Cyclists often have little room to avoid suddenly opened doors, resulting in crashes, falls, and sometimes head or spinal injuries. California law requires drivers to check before opening doors, but violations are rarely enforced.
Knowing your rights and responsibilities on the road is essential for riding safely in California. These bicycle laws are designed to protect cyclists and ensure smoother interactions with vehicles.
In California, bicycles are considered legal vehicles, which means cyclists must follow the same traffic laws as cars. This includes obeying stop signs, traffic lights, and lane markers. Cyclists are also entitled to use the full lane when necessary for safety, although many drivers are unaware of this. Understanding your rights as a rider can help you navigate the roads more confidently and legally.
Enacted in 2014, this law mandates that motorists give bicyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing them on the road. If three feet isn’t possible, the driver must slow down and wait to pass when it’s safe. Violating this law can result in fines and increased liability in a crash. Despite the law, many drivers still pass too closely, putting cyclists in danger.
California law requires all cyclists under 18 years old to wear a properly fitted helmet. While helmets are optional for adults, they are highly recommended as they significantly reduce the risk of head trauma in a crash. Failing to wear a helmet won’t necessarily bar you from recovering damages in an accident, but it could affect how fault is assigned. Helmets should always be worn and properly fastened for maximum protection.
When riding at night, cyclists must equip their bikes with a front white light visible from 300 feet, a rear red reflector or red light, and additional reflectors on pedals or wheels. These rules aim to increase visibility and reduce nighttime accidents, which tend to be more severe. Not having proper lighting can result in citations and reduced credibility in legal claims. Always check your gear before riding after dark.
Cyclists are generally required to ride as close to the right-hand curb or edge of the road as practicable. However, exceptions apply when passing, avoiding obstacles, or preparing to make a left turn. California law also allows cyclists to ride in the center of the lane if the road is too narrow for a car to pass safely. Understanding when you can take the lane helps reduce confusion and keeps riders safer.
What you do in the moments following a bike crash can affect your health, safety, and any potential legal claims. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you take the right actions after a bicycle accident in California.
If you’re physically able, move out of traffic and away from further danger. Assess your condition and check if anyone else involved is injured. If you can’t move or are seriously hurt, try to remain still and wait for medical help. Your safety should always come first, even if you’re worried about your bike or belongings.
Contact emergency services immediately—even if you think your injuries are minor. A police report can serve as vital evidence for insurance and legal claims. Be honest but avoid speculating or accepting blame. Medical responders can also assess hidden injuries you might not notice right away.
Get the name, contact info, driver’s license number, and insurance details from the driver involved. If the accident involved a hit-and-run, try to remember as many details as possible, such as the car’s make, model, and color. If there are any passengers or witnesses, get their names and numbers too. This information is critical for future claims and investigations.
Use your phone to take photos of your bike, the car, road conditions, any traffic signs, and your injuries. These images can help paint a clear picture of what happened and prove liability. It’s also helpful to jot down notes about what you remember, including the time, weather, and sequence of events. The more evidence you collect, the stronger your case will be.
Even if you feel okay, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries—like concussions or internal bleeding—don’t show symptoms right away. Keep records of every medical visit, test result, and prescription. These documents not only help with recovery but also serve as proof of damages in insurance or legal claims.
Cyclists often suffer serious injuries in crashes due to the lack of protection compared to drivers. Below are some of the most common—and often severe—injuries seen in California bike accidents.
Cyclists are especially vulnerable to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions during crashes. Even with a helmet, serious impact can cause long-term cognitive issues or permanent disability. Symptoms might include headaches, memory problems, or dizziness. Medical evaluation is critical, as head injuries may not be immediately noticeable.
Collisions with vehicles or falls often result in fractures, especially in the arms, collarbone, ribs, and legs. These injuries can range from minor breaks to compound fractures requiring surgery and long-term rehabilitation. Recovery time varies but often includes missed work and significant pain. Casting, physical therapy, and mobility aids may be needed.
When cyclists are thrown from their bikes, their skin may scrape along the pavement, leading to road rash. While sometimes superficial, deeper abrasions can cause infections or require skin grafts. These wounds are often extremely painful and may leave permanent scarring. Cleaning and properly dressing road rash is crucial to avoid complications.
Bike crashes can cause trauma to the neck or spine, leading to herniated discs, nerve damage, or even paralysis. These injuries often require long-term medical treatment and can permanently affect mobility and quality of life. Even minor back pain after a crash should be taken seriously. Diagnostic imaging like MRIs may be needed to assess the extent of damage.
Blunt force trauma to the chest or abdomen may result in internal bleeding or damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, or lungs. These injuries may not be visible but can be life-threatening if untreated. Symptoms include abdominal pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Immediate medical attention is essential to prevent complications or death.
Even a seemingly minor bicycle crash in California can lead to serious, long-lasting health issues. The consequences often extend well beyond physical pain and immediate recovery.
Injuries such as fractures, spinal cord trauma, or traumatic brain injuries can result in prolonged discomfort, reduced mobility, or permanent disability. Victims may require ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation for months or even years.
Survivors of severe collisions frequently experience emotional distress, including anxiety, PTSD, or depression. This psychological toll can interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life.
If injuries prevent a return to work or force a career change, the victim may face long-term financial struggles. Lost income and diminished future earning potential can severely impact a family’s financial stability.
In catastrophic cases, a rider may need to rely on assistive technology, personal caregivers, or ongoing therapy, resulting in both financial and emotional burdens.
Retaining an experienced bicycle accident attorney in California can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. They play a vital role in protecting your rights and maximizing your recovery.
A qualified lawyer will review the details of your accident, determine whether you have a viable claim, and advise you on the next steps.
Insurers may attempt to minimize your payout or deny liability altogether. A lawyer negotiates aggressively on your behalf and ensures your rights are upheld.
Attorneys gather critical evidence, consult expert witnesses, and construct a compelling case to demonstrate the other party’s negligence.
California law imposes strict time limits for personal injury claims. Your attorney will manage paperwork, court filings, and procedural requirements to keep your case on track.
Whether through settlement or litigation, your attorney’s goal is to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Pinpointing who is legally responsible for a bicycle accident in California is essential for holding the right party accountable. In many cases, multiple entities may share liability.
The most common at-fault party, especially in accidents involving failure to yield, distracted driving, speeding, or drunk driving.
If poor road design, lack of signage, or hazardous conditions contributed to the crash, a city, county, or Caltrans could be liable.
When delivery trucks or rideshare drivers are involved, their employers or contractors may also bear responsibility.
If a defective bike component or improper assembly caused the accident, the manufacturer or seller could be held accountable.
If a crash occurred due to dangerous conditions on private property (like a poorly maintained driveway or parking lot), the property owner may be to blame.
Gathering strong, reliable evidence is essential to building a successful bicycle accident case in California. This documentation helps establish fault, the extent of your injuries, and the financial impact of the incident.
Official accident reports often include critical observations from law enforcement, witness statements, and citations issued at the scene.
Detailed treatment records, diagnoses, and prognoses serve as proof of injury and help calculate current and future medical expenses.
Photos of the crash scene, bike damage, road conditions, and your injuries can support your version of events. Surveillance or dashcam footage is especially valuable.
Statements from people who saw the accident unfold can confirm the sequence of events and establish liability.
Accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, or economists can provide testimony to strengthen your claim and explain complex issues to a jury or insurer.
Professional evaluations of the involved vehicles can reveal mechanical failures or confirm impact points.
Victims of bicycle crashes in California may be eligible for several types of financial recovery. The goal is to help them rebuild their lives and regain financial stability after a traumatic event.
This includes emergency treatment, hospitalization, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any ongoing or future medical care.
If the injury caused you to miss work or resulted in a long-term inability to earn income, you can recover these financial losses.
Non-economic damages are awarded for the physical discomfort and emotional distress endured as a result of the accident.
Victims can claim the cost of repairing or replacing a damaged bicycle, helmet, and other personal belongings.
If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once loved, you may be entitled to compensation for this reduced quality of life.
In rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct (such as hit-and-run incidents), additional damages may be awarded to punish the offender.
The value of your bicycle accident claim in California can vary significantly based on the circumstances of your case. Factors like injury severity, medical expenses, lost earnings, and emotional distress all play a role in calculating your compensation. Here’s what may be included in your claim:
You can recover the cost of emergency care, surgeries, hospitalization, medications, follow-up doctor visits, and physical therapy. Future treatment needs—such as long-term rehabilitation or assistive devices—may also be considered in your compensation. Accurate documentation of all medical care is essential to securing full reimbursement.
If you were forced to miss work or your injuries have affected your ability to earn a living, you may claim lost wages. This includes time missed during recovery and any diminished earning capacity caused by long-term impairment. Pay stubs, employer statements, and tax records can help support this aspect of your claim.
Compensation for pain and suffering addresses both physical pain and the emotional impact of the accident, such as anxiety or depression. Unlike medical bills, these damages are subjective and vary from case to case. A personal journal, psychological evaluations, and testimony from mental health professionals can strengthen your claim.
You may be reimbursed for the repair or replacement of your bicycle, helmet, and any other gear or electronics damaged in the crash. Keeping receipts, photographs, and repair estimates will help document these losses. Even if your injuries are minor, property damage can still form a key part of your claim.
These are awarded in rare cases where the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness, such as a driver under the influence or engaging in road rage. Punitive damages go beyond compensation and are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Courts award these only in egregious situations with clear evidence of misconduct.
Dealing with insurance adjusters after a bicycle crash in California can be intimidating, especially when you’re still recovering. Insurance companies are primarily interested in minimizing payouts and protecting their bottom line. Being strategic in how you handle these communications can greatly affect the outcome of your claim.
The statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit, and missing it could mean forfeiting your right to seek compensation. California enforces strict time limits depending on the nature of the claim and the parties involved. Understanding these deadlines is essential to protecting your legal rights.
Personal injury claims
You generally have two years from the date of the bicycle accident to file a lawsuit for bodily injuries. This applies whether you’re filing against a driver, a manufacturer, or another negligent party. If you file after this window closes, the court will likely dismiss your case regardless of its merits.
Claims against government entities
If your crash involved a government agency—for example, due to a poorly maintained road or faulty traffic signal—you must file an administrative claim within six months. This shorter deadline is followed by another limited period to file a civil lawsuit if the agency rejects your claim. Failing to act promptly can eliminate your chance to recover any damages.
Property damage claims
For damage to your bicycle, gear, or other belongings, you have up to three years to take legal action. This longer window allows time to fully assess repair or replacement costs and gather supporting documentation. However, it’s still wise to act early before evidence becomes harder to obtain.
Minors and special circumstances
If the injured party is under 18, the statute typically pauses until they reach adulthood. Other exceptions may apply in cases of delayed injury discovery or mental incapacity. Consulting a lawyer early ensures that you don’t unintentionally miss a crucial deadline.
The timeline for resolving a bicycle accident case in California can vary widely based on the facts and complexity of your claim. While some cases are settled quickly, others may require months or even years to conclude. Factors like the severity of injuries, amount of compensation sought, and legal disputes all affect how long your case might take.
If liability is clear and your injuries are relatively minor, the claim might settle in just a few months. These cases usually involve straightforward negotiations with the insurance company. However, it’s still important to wait until your medical treatment is complete before agreeing to a settlement.
If you’ve suffered long-term or catastrophic injuries, your attorney may need time to gather medical evidence, calculate future care costs, and consult expert witnesses. These steps help ensure you receive adequate compensation but can prolong the case. Insurance companies also tend to resist large payouts, which may delay resolution.
If negotiations fail and your case goes to trial, the process may take a year or longer. This includes discovery, depositions, pre-trial motions, and possible appeals. Although litigation takes more time, it may be necessary if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.
Most bicycle accident claims are settled out of court, but the back-and-forth involved in reaching an agreement can take several months. Your lawyer may need to reject low offers and provide counterarguments backed by evidence. Patience often leads to better financial outcomes for the injured party.
Most bicycle accident attorneys in California work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay any upfront fees. This allows injured cyclists to access legal representation regardless of their financial situation. Your lawyer only gets paid if you recover compensation through a settlement or court award.
No win, no fee: If your case is unsuccessful, you typically owe your lawyer nothing for their time or legal services. This reduces financial risk and ensures that your attorney is motivated to secure the best result possible. Some lawyers may also waive case expenses if they don’t win.
Free consultations are common: Most personal injury law firms offer initial consultations at no charge, allowing you to ask questions and learn about your legal options. These meetings also help determine whether the lawyer is a good fit for your case. It’s a valuable opportunity to get professional advice without obligation.
Court and case-related costs: While attorney fees are contingent, there may still be case expenses like court filing fees, deposition costs, and expert witness fees. Some lawyers front these costs and subtract them from your final settlement, while others may bill separately. Be sure to ask how these expenses are handled before signing a fee agreement.
Insurance companies often use a range of tactics to limit or deny compensation after a bicycle accident in California. Understanding these common defenses can help you anticipate challenges and work with your attorney to build a stronger case. Here are the most frequent arguments insurers may use:
Insurers often claim the bicyclist contributed to the crash by ignoring traffic laws, failing to signal, or riding in an unsafe manner. California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation can be reduced based on your share of fault. Even if you’re partly responsible, you may still recover damages—just a reduced amount.
If you suffered a head injury and weren’t wearing a helmet, insurers may argue you contributed to the severity of your injuries. While California only legally requires helmets for riders under 18, lack of helmet use may still be used to minimize your claim. An experienced lawyer can counter this argument by proving that other injuries—not related to helmet use—are the core issue.
Insurance adjusters may argue that you were riding in an unauthorized area, such as on a sidewalk or against traffic, and therefore caused or contributed to the crash. However, California law allows cyclists to ride outside bike lanes in many scenarios, such as to avoid hazards or prepare for turns. Legal knowledge of the state’s bike laws is crucial in pushing back against this type of defense.
Insurers may claim there’s insufficient proof of the accident, the driver’s fault, or the severity of your injuries. Missing police reports, inconsistent medical documentation, or lack of photos can all be used to question your credibility. Preserving evidence early—like witness statements, medical records, and accident scene images—helps avoid this pitfall.
Another common defense is that your injuries weren’t caused by the bike accident but by a prior medical issue or previous incident. Insurance companies may request your medical history to look for anything they can use to shift blame. However, you are still entitled to compensation if the crash worsened a pre-existing condition, and medical experts can help prove this.
California cyclists 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 California 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 California 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 California’s busy roads.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in California, contact us today for a no-obligation consultation. Our team is ready to provide trusted legal advice and pursue the financial compensation you need.
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California offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, from its stunning coastline to its majestic mountains and vibrant cities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s plenty to explore across the Golden State.
From stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures to world-class attractions and a thriving food and arts scene, California offers endless opportunities to explore, savor, and create memorable experiences.
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 were injured in a bicycle crash caused by someone else’s careless actions—like a distracted driver, unsafe road conditions, or a malfunctioning bike component—you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim in California. A knowledgeable attorney will review several important factors, including:
California applies a comparative fault system, which means you might still be eligible for compensation even if you were partly to blame for the incident.
Yes. Serious bicycle injuries often involve more than just physical harm—many cyclists in California suffer emotional and mental distress as well.
Californian families rely on our firm to manage bicycle accident claims, a trust we honor with dedication and care. Here’s what they’ve shared:
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.
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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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