Question 1

What Are Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California?

Accepted Answer

Understanding what causes bicycle accidents in California can help prevent them. The most common reasons these collisions happen include:

Vehicles turning into cyclists' paths: Many drivers misjudge the speed and distance of cyclists when turning. Some even fail to notice cyclists altogether when they turn or change lanes. 

Dooring mishaps: Dooring occurs when a driver or passenger of a parked motor vehicle opens a car door into the path of an oncoming bicyclist. 

Reckless driving: Drivers who speed, fail to yield, run stop signs and traffic lights, or swerve into bike lanes raise the risk of bicycle accidents. 

Poor road conditions: Road debris, potholes, damaged roads, and inadequate lighting call all play a role in causing bicycle accidents. 

Impaired riding or driving: People who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs have impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and diminished ability to control their vehicles, making them more likely to cause accidents.

Question 2

What Do You Have to Prove in a Bicycle Accident Claim in San Rafael, CA?

Accepted Answer

Bicycle accidents, like all other personal injury claims, require that victims prove that the at-fault party was negligent at the time of the accident. To win, your lawyer will need to demonstrate that the following element existed when your accident happened.
The at-fault party owed a duty to the victim; 									
The duty was breached because the at-fault party was negligent; and 									
Due to this negligence, the victim suffered damages 					
In San Rafael, California, those who use public roads have a duty to do so in a manner that is safe and reasonable under the circumstances. For example, a motorist’s decision to drink and drive would certainly not be reasonable.
Most examples of negligence are also instances of failing to act reasonably. For example, texting and driving and speeding in rainy conditions would be considered negligent, as would disregarding traffic signals and failing to yield the right of way.

Question 3

What Damages Can Be Recovered in Bicycle Accident Cases in San Rafael?

Accepted Answer

The damages available to you in your bicycle accident case will depend on the losses you suffered because of the crash. To recover compensation for your losses, you must show that your damages were the direct result of the at-fault party’s negligence (and not due to some preexisting condition). Damages may include:
Medical expenses, including future medical costs 						
Lost wages 									
Loss of earning capacity 									
Loss of employment benefits 									
Costs incurred to install handrails, wheelchair ramps, and similar accommodations 		
Pain and suffering 									
Emotional distress 									
Other types of damages may also be available, depending on the circumstances of the case. Your personal injury attorney will be able to identify and pursue all available damages on your behalf.

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