SAN FRANCISCO BICYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER

Free Consultation: San Francisco Bike Injury Lawyers Ready to Help

Despite the fact that bicycles are legally authorized to share California roads with motor vehicles, many drivers demonstrate surprising negligence when bicyclists are in close proximity. Unfortunately, when the negligence of motorists results in accidents, bicyclists are the ones who pay the price.

If you or your loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, Bostwick & Associates can help you protect your right to compensation. Our award-winning team has:

• Recovered over $1 billion in compensation for victims.
• Secured record-setting verdicts in settlements in CA, HI, WA, and CO
• Been named a Tier 1 firm by U.S. News Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”

Bostwick & Associates is led by one of the nation’s most respected plaintiffs’ trial lawyers and is comprised of advocates who care about making a difference in victims’ lives.

To request a free consultation with a San Francisco bicycle accident attorney, contact us.

California Bicycle Laws

California law gives bicyclists many of the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Some key laws every cyclist and driver should know include:

• Right to the Road: Cyclists may ride on most public roads and must generally follow the same rules of the road as cars.
• Bike Lanes: When a bike lane is present, cyclists should use it if traveling slower than the flow of traffic, unless they are making a left turn or avoiding a hazard.
• Passing Distance: California Vehicle Code §21760, also known as the "Three Feet for Safety Act," requires drivers to give bicyclists at least three feet of space when passing.
• Helmet Requirement: Riders under 18 must wear helmets, though helmets are recommended for all ages for safety.
• Lights & Reflectors: At night, bicycles must have a white front light, red rear reflector, and side reflectors.

When drivers fail to respect these laws, their negligence can easily lead to serious accidents.

Common Causes of Bike Accidents

While some bike accidents are unavoidable, many are caused by driver negligence. Common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or using navigation systems can cause drivers to miss cyclists on the road.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield the right-of-way to cyclists at intersections or when making turns.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Drivers merging without checking blind spots frequently sideswipe cyclists.
• Dooring Accidents: When a parked driver opens a car door without looking, cyclists can crash into the door or swerve into traffic.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drugs impair judgment and reaction time, putting cyclists in extreme danger.

Common Types of Bicycle Accident Injuries

Because cyclists have little protection beyond a helmet, injuries from bike crashes can be catastrophic. Some common injuries include:

• Head and Brain Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur, even when a helmet is worn.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Collisions can result in partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are especially vulnerable.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding can occur in high-impact crashes.
• Road Rash: Serious abrasions from sliding across pavement may require skin grafts.
• Fatalities: Sadly, some bike accidents result in wrongful death, leaving families devastated.

These injuries often lead to long-term rehabilitation, financial hardship, and emotional distress, making legal representation essential.

Compensation from a Bike Accident Claim

If you were injured in a bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Our San Francisco bicycle accident attorney at Bostwick & Associates can help pursue damages such as:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and future medical costs.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your damaged bicycle and gear.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In fatal accidents, families may recover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Having a skilled attorney ensures you don’t settle for less than your claim is worth.

Bicycle Accident FAQs

What should I do immediately after a bike accident in San Francisco?

Call 911 if you are injured, seek medical attention, report the accident to the police, gather contact information from the driver and witnesses, take photos of the scene, and contact an attorney before speaking with insurance companies.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. Even if you were partly at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

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

In most cases, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is two years from the date of the accident. However, shorter deadlines may apply if a government vehicle was involved.

Do I need an attorney for a bike accident claim?

While not legally required, having an attorney significantly increases your chances of securing full and fair compensation. Insurance companies often take claims more seriously when an attorney is involved.

How much does it cost to hire Bostwick & Associates?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only collect fees if we win your case.

Contact a Trusted San Francisco Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

The laws surrounding personal injury allow for victims of bicycle accidents to seek damages from the negligent and responsible party to cover costs associated with medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, including pain and suffering.

Bostwick & Associates has won over $1 billion for victims. Our legal team knows what it takes to help clients navigate the legal process.