Redding Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Injured in a Bicycle Accident in Redding, CA?

Bicycling is a popular activity in Redding, CA, offering both recreational enjoyment and an eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, it also comes with risks, as cyclists are vulnerable to serious injuries in accidents involving motor vehicles. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you need legal representation to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. At the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, our experienced Redding bicycle accident lawyers are committed to advocating for injured cyclists and holding negligent parties accountable.

Call (530) 491-4727 or fill out our online contact form today to request a free consultation.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, many of which are severe due to the lack of protection afforded to cyclists. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Head Injuries: Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of a bicycle accident, ranging from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Even with a helmet, cyclists are at risk of suffering severe head trauma, which can lead to long-term cognitive impairments and physical disabilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a collision can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis or other neurological impairments. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and adaptive equipment, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Broken bones are common in bicycle accidents, especially in the arms, legs, wrists, and ribs. These injuries often require surgery, physical therapy, and time off work to heal properly.
• Internal Injuries: Cyclists can sustain internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, due to the force of the impact. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
• Lacerations and Road Rash: When a cyclist is thrown from their bike, they can suffer severe cuts, bruises, and road rash from sliding across the pavement. These injuries can lead to infections, scarring, and require long-term care.

No matter the severity of your injury, our Redding bicycle accident lawyers are here to help you seek the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents in Redding can occur for a variety of reasons, often involving negligent actions by drivers or other factors. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Inattention or Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of bicycle accidents is distracted driving. Whether a driver is texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting their GPS, any moment of inattention can result in a collision with a cyclist.
• Failure to Yield: Many drivers fail to yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections, crosswalks, or when making turns. This can lead to accidents when drivers don’t see cyclists or misjudge their speed.
• Dooring Accidents: "Dooring" occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door without checking for approaching cyclists, causing the cyclist to crash into the door. These types of accidents are common in areas with street parking and can lead to serious injuries.
• Speeding: Drivers who speed pose a significant risk to cyclists. A speeding driver has less time to react and is more likely to cause a severe accident if they collide with a bicycle.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Bicycles have a smaller profile than cars, making them less visible to drivers. Unsafe lane changes, particularly when drivers fail to check their blind spots, can result in a side-swipe collision with a cyclist.
• Poor Road Conditions: Road hazards such as potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces can cause cyclists to lose control and crash. In some cases, the government entity responsible for maintaining the road may be held liable for the accident.
• Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a leading cause of all types of motor vehicle accidents, including those involving bicycles. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times and poor judgment, increasing the likelihood of a crash.

Who is Liable for a Bicycle Accident?

Determining liability in a bicycle accident can be complex, and it often depends on the specific circumstances of the crash. Several parties could be held responsible for a cyclist’s injuries, including:

• Negligent Drivers: In most cases, the driver of the vehicle that struck the cyclist is held liable for the accident. If the driver was speeding, distracted, or otherwise acting negligently, they could be responsible for compensating the injured cyclist for their damages.
• Government Entities: If the accident was caused by poor road conditions, such as large potholes, debris, or inadequate signage, the government entity responsible for maintaining the road may be liable. Filing a claim against a government entity involves specific legal procedures and deadlines, so it’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
• Manufacturers: If a bicycle or car part malfunctioned and contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the defective part could be held responsible under product liability laws. This might include faulty brakes, tires, or other critical components.
• Other Cyclists or Pedestrians: In some cases, other cyclists or pedestrians may be at fault for causing an accident. For example, if a pedestrian steps into a bike lane without looking, causing the cyclist to swerve and crash, the pedestrian may be held liable.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Bicycle Accident Claim?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any necessary medical devices.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost wages, both current and future.
• Pain and Suffering: In addition to financial losses, you may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: If your bicycle or other personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for repair or replacement costs.

At the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, we understand the challenges cyclists face after an accident. From dealing with insurance companies to managing medical bills and recovering from injuries, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Our experienced Redding bicycle accident lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your entitled compensation.

Contact us today at (530) 491-4727 to speak with our legal team about your case.