Cycling is famous as a recreational activity and a mode of transportation in Orange County. But like other popular pastimes, the more cycling starts to catch on, the more risk of accidents, especially at the same time as one shares the roads with motor vehicles. A bicycle accident victim must encounter physical, emotional, and financial hardships.
So it will be better for them to know their rights and the steps they should take in case of such an accident. It can help you get fair compensation and its due share of justice.
How to Get a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
One of the first things you should do if you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident is to reach out to an Orange County bicycle accident lawyer. Local experts will guide you through the complexities of the legal process to ensure you are aware of your rights and help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional pain and suffering.
Like all the different types of vehicles, bicyclists, as per California law, are considered vehicles, which means they are provided (and required to abide by) the same protections and stipulations as any other motor vehicle operator. These rights often require enforcing them with the help of an experienced attorney who can present and develop a strong case on your behalf!
Other driving tips for bicycle accident prevention
Negligent drivers or unsafe road conditions are common causes of bicycle accidents. One of the most common causes of collisions is failure to yield to other vehicles, especially at intersections. Perhaps the most common type of accident is dooring, when drivers open car doors directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist.
Other versions of right hook collisions mistakenly turn right into the path of a cyclist going straight without checking for cyclists. One of the leading causes of bike accidents remains the distracted driver — one who’s texting or focusing on something other than the road. More than 150 bicyclists were fatally injured in traffic collisions in 2021, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety — a stark reminder of the risks cyclists routinely face.
Your Rights Following a Bicycle Accident
If you are hurt in a bicycle crash, you have many damages you may recover. Ordinary recoverable medical expenses include emergency treatment and rehabilitation. However, if you cannot work due to the injuries you sustain, you may receive compensation for lost wages.
You can include emotional and physical pain associated with the accident, commonly known as pain and suffering. You may also be entitled to recover the cost of any other property damage, including repairing or replacing your bicycle and cycling equipment. And even if you contributed to the accident that caused your injuries, California’s comparative negligence laws will allow you to pursue partial compensation.
What to Do After an Accident
Quick and deliberate steps to be taken post-bicycle accident will help enhance your chances in court. These steps will vary but generally will include seeking medical attention as one can suffer from concussions or internal damage without knowing, documenting the scene of the accident — taking photographs of personal injuries, the area, and bike damages, and getting contact information and insurance details from parties and witnesses involved.
By filing a police report, you create a written record of the crime, which can serve as crucial evidence later. And finally, seeing a qualified attorney means you have someone on your side who protects your evidence, knows how to negotiate with the insurance companies, and can fight your corner in court.
Why You Need to Act Quick
Regarding remuneration, California law offers a two-year statute of limitation applicable to personal injury claims; if your lawsuit isn’t filed within two years of the accident, you could lose your right to pursue a claim for indemnification. These time limits could be extended if, for example, the injuries are discovered later or, in the case of a minor, time commences to run at 18 years of age. The right to seek justice is lost when this time limit is reached. Prompt action will also ensure evidence is preserved and your case is in the best position possible.
How to prevent future bicycle accidents
While one cannot escape every danger, one can reduce the risk of a subsequent accident. Riding in the same direction as cars and following the rules of the road will help keep you predictable to drivers. Choosing to wear safety clothing such as helmets and reflective clothing helps to increase your visibility and is also known to reduce the severity of your injury.
To react quickly to hazards, you must be alert and avoid distractions (like listening to music while wearing both earbuds). It gives you extra protection when there are bike lanes or other designated cycling paths.
Every cyclist who takes every precaution and rides per the rules of the road is always at the mercy of negligent action by another person on the road. Navigating your diagnosis, knowing your rights, and deciding on whether you need legal representation after experiencing an accident will help you hold the people responsible accountable and get you back on your feet to recover against your losses.
Bottom Line
Sadly, bicycle accidents in Orange County do happen. But the difference lies in being aware of your rights if you become a victim. From receiving professional medical attention and documenting the accident to seeking professional attorney guidance, it is all essential to attaining the compensation and justice an individual deserves. That applies whether recovering from injuries or advocating for safer cycling infrastructure, and understanding your rights is empowering.
