Chico Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Pursuing Your Financial Recovery

Bicycling is a popular activity in Chico, CA, for both recreation and transportation. While riding a bike can be an enjoyable and eco-friendly way to get around, it also presents significant risks, especially when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents can result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection cyclists have compared to drivers.

If you've been involved in a bicycle accident in Chico, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, and our Chico bicycle accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley is here to help. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of bicycle accident cases. We are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring you recover your entitled award or settlement.

Injured in a bike crash in Chico, CA? Contact Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley at (530) 413-0245 online or in-person to learn about your legal options.

California Bicycle Laws

Understanding California's bicycle laws is essential for cyclists to stay safe on the road and avoid accidents. These laws regulate how cyclists and motorists interact to prevent collisions and ensure everyone’s safety.

Here are some key California bicycle laws that every rider should be aware of:

• Right to the Road: In California, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. This means cyclists must obey traffic signals, stop signs, and all other road signs.
• Bike Lanes: Cyclists are required to use a bike lane when one is available, except in situations where they need to turn left, pass a vehicle, or avoid a hazard.
• Riding Direction: Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic on the right side of the road. Riding against traffic increases the likelihood of accidents.
• Helmet Laws: In California, bicyclists under the age of 18 are required by law to wear a helmet when riding. While it’s not legally required for adults, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended to prevent head injuries in case of a collision.
• Lighting and Visibility: Cyclists must use a white front light and a red rear reflector or light when riding at night. Additionally, bikes must be equipped with reflectors on the pedals and wheels to enhance visibility.

By following these laws, cyclists can reduce their chances of being involved in an accident, but even when obeying all traffic regulations, accidents can still happen.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents in Chico can happen for a variety of reasons. Some accidents are the result of hazardous road conditions, while others occur due to the negligent actions of drivers. Below are some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted may not notice cyclists, leading to dangerous collisions.
• Failure to Yield: Many bicycle accidents happen when motorists fail to yield the right of way at intersections or when turning, causing them to crash into cyclists who are legally in their path.
• Dooring Accidents: These occur when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, giving the cyclist little time to react and resulting in a collision.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces the reaction time of drivers and increases the likelihood of severe injuries in the event of a crash.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol have impaired judgment and reaction times, making it more difficult for them to avoid cyclists.
• Road Hazards: Poorly maintained roads, potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces can cause cyclists to lose control of their bikes and crash.

When a driver’s negligence leads to a bicycle accident, injured cyclists have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries.

Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents often result in serious injuries, as cyclists lack the protection of a vehicle’s frame. Some common injuries sustained in these accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, a cyclist can suffer a serious head injury in a collision.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life.
• Broken Bones: Collisions often result in fractures, especially to the arms, legs, and ribs.
• Road Rash: When a cyclist is thrown from their bike, they can suffer severe abrasions from sliding on the pavement.
• Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding and organ damage can occur even without visible external injuries.

How Can Cyclists Recover Compensation After an Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Chico, it’s important to take steps to protect your legal rights. Cyclists who are harmed due to the negligence of a driver may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Here's how you can recover compensation after an accident:

• Seek Medical Attention: After a bicycle accident, your health and safety are the top priorities. Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not be apparent right away, and having a medical record is crucial for your personal injury claim.
• Gather Evidence: If possible, collect evidence from the accident scene. This includes taking photos of your injuries, damage to your bike, and the accident location. If there were witnesses, gather their contact information, as their testimony may be helpful later.
• Report the Accident: Report the accident to the local authorities. A police report will serve as an official record of the incident, which can be crucial when filing a claim.
• Contact a Lawyer: Navigating the legal process after a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies. The team at the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley can handle negotiations with insurers and work to hold the negligent party accountable. We will investigate your case, gather evidence, and fight to recover maximum compensation for your injuries.
• File a Personal Injury Claim: Our Chico bicycle accident lawyer will help you file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for damages such as:
  • Medical expenses (both current and future)
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage (e.g., your bicycle and gear)
  • Rehabilitation costs

Contact our team online or by calling (530) 413-0245 for a no-obligation consultation.