Bicycle Accidents
Riding a bicycle in the Bay Area can be a risky activity. State traffic laws require the operators of motor vehicles to treat bicyclists the same as any other traveler on the road. If a motor vehicle driver, fails to follow the rules of the road, they could cause an accident with catastrophic consequences. Even a relatively minor crash could land a person in the hospital. Serious incidents could result in life-threatening injuries that affect every portion of a person’s future.
If you or a loved one were injured due to a negligent actions of another, Ballesteros Law could explain your rights while on the road, gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and demand proper compensation from the at-fault party.
How a Collision Could Occur
Many cities have taken great strides to encourage people to travel on bicycles and to provide protection to those bikers. The creation of bike lanes now gives bicyclists a dedicated traveling area. Additionally, traffic laws state that motor vehicle drivers must take the same steps to avoid collisions with bicycles as they do for any other vehicle. This includes yielding when appropriate, checking blind spots before changing lanes, and signaling turns. According to California’s Three Feet for Safety Act (Section 21670 of the California Vehicle Code), motorists must provide a distance of at least three feet when overtaking or passing a bicycle traveling in the same direction.
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Bike riders must also follow these traffic laws. A bike rider who ignores a stop sign, who tailgates, or who does not signal a turn may share blame for a collision. Before riding a bicycle, it’s helpful to review the state laws outlined in Article 4 of the California Vehicle Code, called “Operation of Bicycles” (21200 to 21213).
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Ballesteros Law could work to gather the evidence needed to prove that the defendant’s reckless actions is the direct cause of the plaintiff’s damages and injuries.
Common Types of Damages
A bicycle accident could have a devastating effect on an injured individual and their family. The collision may inflict severe injuries that can take months or years to fully heal. Injured bicyclists could sustain serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and spinal cord damage. Many of these injuries are often permanent and may require consistent treatment for the rest of a person’s life.
However, a physical injury is not the only form of loss that a plaintiff may experience. Most physical injuries come with some level of pain and suffering. Additionally, the victim may suffer from emotional trauma or mental anguish. A bike crash attorney could help to measure these less tangible losses to demand proper compensation.
Additionally, even relatively minor injuries affect a person’s finances. If a plaintiff misses time at work to seek medical treatment or to make a recovery, the defendant may be liable to provide reimbursement. Injured claimants may also be eligible to recover compensation for lost earning capacity, rehabilitation, and surgical procedures. Ballesteros Law could work to demand and collect the payments needed to set things right.
Bicycle Safety for Children
We understand that learning safety early on can help to ensure a lifetime of safe bicycle riding. That is why we created this helpful guide for you to understand the key points to teach your child before they learn how to ride a bicycle.
Seek Help from Ballesteros Law
Those who have been injured in a bicycle crash due to the negligent actions of others have the right to seek compensation for their losses, including medical bills, emotional trauma, and lost wages. Working with Ballesteros Law could improve your chances of success.
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Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
