Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyers

What Compensation is Available After a Bicycle Accident in Sacramento?

Educating yourself about the different types of compensation can help your recovery process. Our Sacramento bicycle accident attorneys can assist you in pursuing the following:

• Medical Expenses:  Coverage for costs related to the medical treatment of your injuries. This means emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for lost income from missed work, as well as lost future wages if your injuries prevent you from doing your job.
• Property Damage:  Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your bicycle or other damaged personal property found in the accident.
• Pain and Suffering:  Financial compensation for the physical and emotional pain, as well as the negative impact caused in your life by the accident.
• Reduced Earning Potential:  You could be eligible for compensation for diminished future earnings caused by permanent disability or limited ability to work due to the accident.
• Punitive Damages:  Extra damages may be awarded to hold the at-fault party accountable and prevent similar behavior in cases of extreme negligence or reckless conduct.

Each bicycle accident has a different story which can determine the compensation you can recover from your case. Contact our professional Sacramento bicycle accident attorneys for a FREE CASE REVIEW and let’s explore your options and work toward securing fair compensation.

Our Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyers Charge No Upfront Fees

Our Sacramento bicycle accident lawyers follow a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t have to pay anything if we cannot recover compensation for your bicycle accident.

We are available 24 hours a day to provide legal guidance and support.

You can also sign up with one of our attorneys before insurance companies even have the chance to minimize your right to compensation.

Our bilingual staff (fluent in Spanish and English) are all readily available to help you get back on your feet after your bicycle accident.

Sacramento Intersections Where Bicycle Accidents Happen More Often

Sacramento has some dangerous intersections, especially during rush hours or in areas that lack the proper bike infrastructure:

• Broadway & 19th Street
• Folsom Boulevard & 65th Street
• J Street & Carlson Drive
• Florin Road & Franklin Boulevard
• Northgate Boulevard & West El Camino Avenue
• Howe Avenue & Fair Oaks Boulevard
• Arden Way & Watt Avenue
• Stockton Boulevard & Fruitridge Road
• 12th Street & H Street
• Mack Road & Valley Hi Drive

If you were hit by a vehicle at one of these intersections or anywhere else in Sacramento, reach out to Thompson Law for a FREE CONSULTATION and learn how you can exercise your rights as the victim and secure a fair settlement.

Police Departments Handling Bicycle Accidents in Sacramento

Here are the main departments in Sacramento that you can reach out to for investigation:

• Sacramento Police Department
  Address: 5770 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95822
  Non-Emergency Line: (916) 808-5471
• Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office
  Address: 4500 Orange Grove Ave, Sacramento, CA 95841
  Phone: (916) 874-5115
• California Highway Patrol – Sacramento Division
  Address: 6 Massie Ct, Sacramento, CA 95823
  Phone: (916) 681-2300

If you need help getting your police report or understanding how it affects your case, our Sacramento bicycle accident attorneys can handle it. Contact Thompson Law for a FREE CASE REVIEW today.

Sacramento Bicycle Accident Statistics & Causes

Sacramento is known as one of the nation’s deadliest places for cyclists, ranking 8th in bicycle fatalities from 2011-2020. Within those years, Stockton reported 35 bicycle-related deaths, ranking them the 10th in terms of cities in the US. Additionally, the rate of fatal bicycle accidents in Sacramento has increased by 3% over the last few years, according to the KCRA investigation.

Most Common Bicycle Accident Causes in Sacramento

Knowing the leading causes of bicycle accidents lets cyclists practice safer decision-making to avoid possible crashes, even when the driver is responsible for it. Commonly, bicycle accidents happen because of negligent driving. Here are some of the most common types of crashes and their causes:

• Right hook collisions when a driver turns right and cuts off or hits a cyclist riding in the same direction
• Left cross accidents when a driver turns left at an intersection and crashes into a cyclist coming from the opposite direction
• Dooring incidents where a driver or passenger opens a car door into a cyclist’s path, forcing them to swerve or crash
• Drunk driving crashes caused by impaired drivers with slowed reaction times and poor decision-making
• Distracted driving from texting, eating, or using GPS, leading to drivers overlooking nearby cyclists

Cyclists can use defensive riding strategies to reduce their risk of being involved in an accident and stay safe on the road by being familiar with these common situations. Call us today and get a FREE CONSULTATION.

Biking Laws and Guidelines in Sacramento

Bicyclists in Sacramento possess the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and must adhere to traffic laws for their safety on the road. Over 100 bicyclists are killed, and more than 10,000 are injured in collisions each year.

Make sure you remember these basic biking laws:

• Right to the Road:  Cyclists can use travel lanes unless it’s not allowed. As much as possible, they should stay in the rightmost area unless overtaking, turning, or avoiding hazards. On one-way streets with multiple lanes, cyclists can stay near the left curb.
• Bicycle Lanes:  Cyclists must use bike lanes but can leave the lane to turn, pass, or avoid hazards when available. Bright green lanes work the same as standard bike lanes.
• Helmet Requirements:  Riders under 18 must wear a properly fitted helmet.
• Night Riding: Bicycles must have a front white light (visible at 300 ft.), a red rear reflector or light (visible at 500 ft.), and side reflectors. Riders shouldn’t wearing dark clothing.
• Signaling:  Riders must use turn signals rather than hand signals.
• Passing Rules:  Motorists should give at least a 3-foot gap when overtaking a cyclist. Cyclists should also stay cautious when passing vehicles.
• Prohibitions:  Just like car drivers, cyclists cannot ride while under the influence. They also can’t carry more passengers than the bike can accommodate, or drive a bike that lacks a functional brake system.

Here are also some safety tips to live by:

• Stay visible and alert, especially at night. Use lights and wear bright or reflective clothing. Check for vehicles before entering intersections or crossing driveways.
• Ride a bike that fits you and keep it well-maintained. Regularly check brakes, tires, and other key parts.
• Obey all traffic signs, signals, and right-of-way rules. Don’t rush through yellow lights and proceed only if it’s safe.
• Watch out for road hazards like potholes, loose gravel, or opening car doors. Keep a safe distance and use mirrors to stay aware of your surroundings.
• Ride defensively and be prepared to react quickly to sudden moves by nearby drivers.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bicycle Accident?

Liability in a bicycle accident isn’t always limited to the driver. Depending on the circumstances, several parties may be held responsible:

• Motor vehicle drivers who speed, drive distracted, or fail to yield to cyclists
• Employers if the at-fault driver was on the job at the time of the crash
• Government agencies responsible for unsafe road conditions, broken signals, or poor infrastructure
• Pedestrians who step into a cyclist’s path or ignore traffic signals
• Other cyclists who ride recklessly or disobey traffic laws
• Construction companies or contractors if roadwork creates dangerous or unmarked hazards

Determining who’s responsible for the bicycle accident means gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts, making it a heavy task. Our skilled Sacramento bicycle accident attorneys can help identify and hold accountable the responsible parties. Call us today for a FREE CASE REVIEWand let’s work together in discussing how you can secure the compensation you deserve.

Common Bike Accident Injuries in Sacramento

Cyclists are more prone to injury in accidents with motor vehicles because bikes have less protection than cars. Even low-speed crashes can cause severe injuries. According to studies, about 40 percent of cyclists in crashes suffer fractures, often in the arms and shoulders. These injuries need surgery, especially in crashes with motor vehicles. Other common bike accidents injuries in Sacramento are:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):  Even when wearing a helmet, strong impacts can cause brain injuries that affect memory and cognitive function.
• Road Rash:  Skin abrasions caused by sliding across the pavement, which can become infected if not treated properly.
• Internal Injuries:  Blunt force trauma can cause internal organ damage, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Soft Tissue Injuries:  Sprains, bruises, and muscle tears that may need long-term treatment or physical therapy.
• Spinal Cord Injuries:  Damage to the spine can cause paralysis, requiring significant medical intervention and ongoing care.
• Broken Bones:  Fractures to arms, legs, and ribs are common, often requiring surgery and lengthy recovery.

Cyclists in Sacramento should ask for immediate medical care if injured in an accident. Legal advice also helps you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Don’t wait to reach out to our team of experienced Sacramento bicycle accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us fight for your case while you focus on recovering from your injuries.

Sacramento Bicycle Helmet Laws You Need to Know

In Sacramento, cyclists under 18 must wear helmets when riding on public roads. This law has been in place since 1994, with penalties starting at $25 for those who don’t comply. While helmet use is encouraged for safety, its overall impact on reducing serious head injuries has been debated.

One study found that despite more riders wearing helmets after the law was passed, head injury rates remained nearly the same. The rate of serious head injuries increased slightly from 27.2% before the law to 28.2% after.

Regardless of legal requirements, wearing a helmet is a smart choice for cyclists of all ages. Helmets can reduce the risk of severe head injuries in crashes, especially in accidents involving cars or high speeds.

Helmet Use and Public Health

Public health experts agree that promoting cycling is more beneficial than restricting it with strict helmet laws. Research shows that people who regularly bike, even without helmets, tend to have lower overall mortality rates than those who don’t cycle at all.

The California Bicycle Coalition opposes mandatory helmet laws for adults, arguing that safer roads and better cycling infrastructure are more effective at preventing injuries. Studies support this, showing that cities with well-designed bike lanes and bike-sharing programs experience fewer accidents. Investing in bike-friendly infrastructure also has economic benefits: for every $1 million spent on bike lanes and safety measures, healthcare costs decrease by an estimated $2.8 million.

Talk to a Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t try to navigate the legal process alone. Insurance companies will look for ways to minimize your claim, and without legal support, you could walk away with far less than you deserve.

At Thompson Law, our Sacramento bicycle accident lawyers know how to build strong cases, handle pushback from insurers, and pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to. We charge no upfront fees, and you only pay if we win.

Call now for a FREE CONSULTATION and let us help you take the next step toward recovery.

FAQs About Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyers

What if a malfunction or defect in my bicycle caused my accident?

If your bike or one of its parts malfunctioned and caused your crash, you may have a product liability case against the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer. These cases require proof that the defect directly led to your injury, so it’s important to keep your bike in its current condition and contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I recover compensation if poor road conditions caused my accident?

Yes, if your crash was due to potholes, uneven pavement, debris, or other hazards, the government agency responsible for maintaining the road may be liable. However, these claims have strict deadlines, so speaking with a lawyer quickly is crucial.

Can I file a claim if I was injured while riding a rental or shared bike?

Yes, you may still be able to seek compensation. Liability depends on factors like whether the bike was defective or if another party caused the accident. A lawyer can help determine who is responsible and what legal options you have.

Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident?

Yes, you can still seek compensation, however, if you weren’t wearing a helmet during the collision, then it might affect your case depending on the circumstances. In Sacramento, only cyclists under 18 are required to wear helmets, so adults riding without one are not automatically considered negligent. A lawyer can evaluate how this may impact your claim.

What should I do after a hit-and-run accident?

The first thing you absolutely need to do is to call the police and file a report. Try to gather as much information as possible about the driver or vehicle, such as the make, model, color, or license plate number. Get medical attention immediately and then consult a lawyer. It may still be possible for you to recover compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues.