Every year, thousands of cyclists are seriously injured on California roads. Whether you were riding in a designated bike lane, crossing an intersection, or sharing the road with traffic, a collision can happen in seconds — and the consequences can be devastating. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a bicycle accident, understanding your legal rights is one of the most important steps you can take.
California Law and Cyclist Protections
California law treats cyclists as legitimate road users with the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. Motorists are required to give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing, and they must yield the right of way in the same situations they would for any other vehicle.
Despite these protections, drivers routinely ignore cyclists, fail to check blind spots, open car doors into bike lanes, or make turns without looking. When that negligence results in injury, the driver — and potentially other parties — can be held liable for the harm caused.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Many bicycle accidents are entirely preventable. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Distracted driving, including texting behind the wheel
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Dooring — when a parked driver opens their door into a cyclist’s path
- Speeding in areas with heavy bike traffic
- Unsafe lane changes or turns
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Poorly maintained roads or missing signage
In some cases, liability may extend beyond the driver. A government agency may be responsible for dangerous road conditions. A vehicle manufacturer could be at fault if a defect contributed to the crash. An experienced personal injury attorney can help identify every party whose negligence played a role.
Injuries Cyclists Commonly Face
Because cyclists have no protective barrier between themselves and the road or a vehicle, injuries in these accidents tend to be serious. Victims frequently suffer broken bones, road rash, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, internal injuries, and soft tissue trauma. Even with a helmet and protective gear, the force of a collision with a motor vehicle can cause life-altering harm.
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, time away from work, and long-term rehabilitation. The financial and emotional toll can be overwhelming — and it shouldn’t be yours to carry alone.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Insurance companies do not automatically pay what a bicycle accident claim is worth. Adjusters may try to shift blame onto the cyclist, argue that injuries were pre-existing, or offer a quick settlement that falls far short of covering your actual losses.
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we know how to push back. Our team investigates the circumstances of your accident, gathers evidence, works with medical professionals to document your injuries, and negotiates aggressively on your behalf. We handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on recovering.
Talk to Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn Today
If you were injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait to explore your options. California’s statute of limitations puts a time limit on how long you have to file a claim, and evidence can disappear quickly. Contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn today at (310) 209-1600 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We never charge a fee unless we recover money for you.
