Practice Areas

Your California Bicycle Accident Attorney

Your California Bicycle Accident claim Attorney

Navigating Bicycle Accidents in San Diego: Your Rights and Legal Options

Bicycle lying on the ground with visible damage, and a car with dents in the background, illustrating a collision scenario
Bicycling in San Diego is a popular mode of transportation and recreation, but it comes with significant risks. Bicycle accidents are increasingly common, with many resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Understanding your rights and knowing how to proceed after a bicycle accident is crucial for protecting your future. Goldfaden Benson Law is here to guide you through this challenging time and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

The Growing Concern of Bicycle Accidents

As more people take to the streets on bicycles, the number of bicycle accidents has surged. These incidents often involve motor vehicles and can lead to devastating consequences for cyclists. In fact, vehicle-related incidents are the leading cause of bicycle injuries, accounting for nearly 30% of all bicycle accidents nationwide. Unfortunately, police reports capture only about 10% of these injuries, leaving many bicycle accident victims without the justice they deserve. Similar to many car accident injuries, bike accident injuries can often be even more severe. In a car vs. bike scenario, the car always wins.
In San Diego, the problem is particularly acute. Despite the city’s efforts to promote cycling as a safe and sustainable mode of transportation, many drivers still fail to recognize that cyclists have the same rights as motorists. This oversight can lead to tragic outcomes, including severe injuries or even death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), two cyclists are fatally injured each day in collisions with vehicles, highlighting the urgent need for better awareness and safer road conditions.

Where and Why Bicycle Accidents Occur

Bicycle accidents can happen anywhere, but they are most common at intersections and crosswalks, where vehicles and bicycles frequently interact. In many cases, these accidents are caused by negligent actions on the part of drivers, such as distracted driving, speeding, running red lights, or failing to yield the right of way to cyclists. Additionally, poor road conditions, such as unclear signage or inadequate maintenance, can contribute to bicycle accidents, particularly for those riding on mountain trails or other off-road areas.

Another common cause of bicycle accidents is the failure of motorists to check their blind spots before changing lanes or turning. This is especially dangerous for cyclists, who are often less visible than other vehicles on the road. In some cases, accidents occur because of the design and layout of bike lanes, which may not provide adequate protection for cyclists from motor vehicles. The lack of adherence to bicycle laws by some drivers further exacerbates the risk to cyclists.

The Impact of Bicycle Accidents on Victims

The consequences of a bicycle accident can be life-altering. Bicycle accident injuries often include broken bones, traumatic brain injury, internal injuries, and road rash, all of which can require extensive medical care and rehabilitation. In addition to the physical toll, victims may face significant financial burdens, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. These expenses can quickly add up, creating a stressful and overwhelming situation for accident victims and their families.
Beyond the immediate costs, there are also long-term implications to consider. Some injuries may require ongoing medical treatment, physical therapy, or even permanent lifestyle changes. This can result in lost earning potential and diminished quality of life. At Goldfaden Benson Law, we understand the challenges that injury victims face and are committed to helping you secure the compensation you need to cover these costs.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, it is important to take immediate action to protect your legal rights, including searching for a competent bike accident lawyer. The steps you take in the aftermath of the accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:

1. Call the Police: Ensure that an official report is filed, documenting the details of the accident. This report will be crucial in your bicycle accident case.

2. Collect Information: Gather the contact and auto insurance information of the fault driver, as well as contact details for any witnesses. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.

3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent.

4. Document Everything: Keep records of your medical treatment, repair estimates for your bike, and any other expenses related to the accident. This documentation will be vital for building your case.

5. Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney: Before speaking with the insurance company, consult a qualified bicycle accident lawyer who can advise you on how to proceed. Bicycle Accident attorneys will be able to help you navigate the aftermath of a bicycle accident.

Why You Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Navigating the legal process after a bicycle accident can be complex and overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim. A skilled bicycle accident attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. At Goldfaden Benson Law, our legal team is dedicated to advocating for accident victims and holding negligent parties accountable.
We have a track record of successfully handling bicycle accident cases, and we are ready to put our experience to work for you. Whether your case involves a bike crash with a car, truck accident, or another type of motor vehicle, our personal injury lawyers will fight to protect your interests and secure the compensation you deserve. A bike crash lawyer may seem quite specialized, but we at Goldfaden Benson have handled numerous of these cases with stellar results for our clients.

Seeking Compensation After a Bicycle Accident

In a bicycle accident claim, you may be entitled to compensation for a range of damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical care related to your injuries.

Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries and recovery.

Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to your bicycle and other personal property.

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.

Economic Damages: Coverage for any additional costs incurred as a result of the accident, such as transportation to medical appointments.

Every case is unique, and the amount of compensation you may be entitled to will depend on the specific circumstances of your accident. Our injury attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and work with experts to determine the full extent of your losses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first thing I should do after a bicycle accident?

After ensuring your safety, you should contact the police to file a report and then seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re injured.

How can I prove that the driver was at fault for my bicycle accident?

Proving fault often requires gathering evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, and photos of the accident scene. A bicycle accident attorney can help collect and present this evidence to support your claim.

What if the driver’s insurance company tries to blame me for the accident?

Insurance companies may try to reduce their liability by shifting blame onto the cyclist. A skilled personal injury lawyer can help counter these tactics and protect your rights.

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in California?

In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, it’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence and build a strong case.

How can Goldfaden Benson Law help me with my bicycle accident case?

Goldfaden Benson Law has extensive experience handling personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents. We are committed to helping you secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, please visit our Contact Us page or call us at 619-333-5100.

External Resource: For additional information on bicycle safety and highway safety, visit the **[National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

Martin Luther King Jr.

plan of action

know your rights

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident and are unsure of whether or not you are entitled to recovery, contact our office immediately for a free case evaluation. 

We are happy to hear from you. 

01

Evaluate your situation

Our comprehensive case evaluation will ensure you understand your options and are aware of all available resources.

02

Negotiations

We will negotiate with the opposing party on your behalf, keeping you informed along the way.

03

Fight For You in Court

If needed, we will file a lawsuit on your behalf and advocate in your best interest every step of the way.

we are here for you. always.

Please contact our office immediately to discuss taking your case.