Bicycle Accident Lawyer in California
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in California, you need a bicycle accident lawyer that understands the dangers cyclists face on busy roads and the challenges of dealing with insurance companies after a crash. At Saeedian Law Group, our California bicycle accident lawyers with 16+ years of experience help injured cyclists recover full compensation while handling every part of the legal process on their behalf. And because we work on a contingency fee basis, you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Why You Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in California
Handling a bicycle accident claim on your own can be risky. Insurance companies may pressure you into accepting a low settlement amount or even deny your claim. Sometimes, they may try to blame you for the bicycle crash to avoid liabilities. So, without proper legal representation, you may eventually be walking away with little or no compensation while still dealing with medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and long-term injuries. Therefore, you need an experienced lawyer to protect you from these tactics and make sure your rights are not ignored.
Moreover, understanding California bicycle laws can be complex, and cyclists often face unfair assumptions. Although the California Vehicle Code Section §21200 gives cyclists the same rights and duties as drivers, many motorists ignore these rules, causing preventable cycling accident cases. Combined with laws like the Three-Foot Passing Law and California’s comparative negligence system, determining fault and establishing liability can be complicated.
Thankfully, our experienced bicycle accident attorneys understand these bicycle-specific laws, know how to prove driver negligence, and ensure the legal standards are applied correctly so you receive the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation with us now and let’s review your case for free.
How Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers Help
Our California bicycle accident attorneys at Saeedian Law Group offer full legal support from the moment you contact us:
- Free Case Evaluation: We review your accident, injuries, and potential legal options at no cost.
- Investigation & Evidence Collection: Our law firm can help you obtain police reports, video footage, witness statements, and expert analysis to build a strong case.
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies: Our experienced lawyers handle all communication and push back against lowball settlement offers or bad-faith insurance company tactics.
- Filing Lawsuits When Necessary: If insurers refuse a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.
- Maximizing Settlements or Jury Awards: Our goal is to recover the highest possible compensation for medical treatment, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term damages.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California
Traffic Safety Data shows that there were 145 bicycle fatalities in California in 2023. Although that was about 20% decrease from the previous year, bicycle safety still remains a concern in the state. These bicycle accidents happen for many reasons, especially in busy cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, and San Francisco where cyclist traffic is high. Some of the most common causes include:
Collisions at Intersections
More than 30% of bicycle accidents in California happen at intersections where drivers fail to yield or rush through lights. Our bicycle accident attorneys help review traffic patterns, skid marks, and witness testimony to clearly establish fault.
Car Door Accidents (“Dooring”)
Dooring accidents occur when a driver opens their door without checking for oncoming cyclists, causing sudden impact and serious injuries. It is one of the most common urban bike hazards, especially on crowded streets like LA’s Sunset Boulevard or Market Street in San Francisco. Our team can help you collect crucial evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, to hold negligent drivers accountable.
Hit-and-Run Incidents
Cyclists are often left with severe injuries when a driver flees the scene. Our skilled bicycle accident attorneys work with law enforcement, track down available video evidence, and pursue uninsured motorist coverage when the driver can’t be found.
Poorly Maintained Roads or Bike Lanes
Potholes, debris, and faded lane markings create high-risk conditions, especially in older city areas. Our bike accident lawyers can help identify and establish government or city liability, preserve evidence quickly, and file claims within strict deadlines.
Reckless or Distracted Drivers
Texting, speeding, tailgating, or aggressive driving puts cyclists at high risk. At Saeedian Law Group, our personal injury attorneys collect evidence like phone records and reconstruction reports to show how driver negligence caused a serious bike accident.
Unsafe Lane Changes or Passing
Drivers who merge without checking blind spots or fail to give cyclists enough space often cause side-swipe collisions. To investigate liability, our bicycle accident lawyers review dashcams, vehicle damage, and roadway evidence.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Alcohol and drugs slow impaired drivers’ reaction time and make cyclists extremely vulnerable on the road. We ensure DUI offenders are held fully accountable and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
Defective Bicycle Parts
Some bicycle accident cases are caused by a mechanical failure, like a brake defect or tire blowout. In these cases, we investigate manufacturer liability and pursue product-defect claims when necessary.
Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accident Cases
Bicyclists are considered vulnerable road users in California, alongside pedestrians. So, most bicycle accidents usually lead to serious harm. Here are some of the most common bicycle injuries in the cycling community:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken or fractured bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Road rash and severe skin abrasions
- Internal organ damage
- Facial injuries and dental trauma
- Soft tissue injuries (sprains, strains, torn ligaments)
- Neck and back injuries
- Dislocations
- Severe bruising and contusions
For a successful bicycle accident claim, you need to be able to document these injuries and their extent and establish that the injuries were caused by the defendant’s negligence. Without accurate documentation, you might not have enough evidence to pursue a compensation that can settle your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
But you don’t have to panic; that’s why Saeedian Law Group is here to help you. Our experienced bicycle accident lawyers can help you document your injuries, prove negligence, and negotiate on your behalf for a fair settlement. If the case goes to trial, we represent you in court to make sure you get justice and recover maximum compensation.
For bicycle accidents that resulted in wrongful death, our California wrongful death attorneys are ready to help you seek compensation to recover funeral expenses and other available damages.
We Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve
If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident, now is the time to get experienced, compassionate, and proven legal representation on your side. At Saeedian Law Group, we work tirelessly to maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term recovery needs. Our team handles insurance adjusters directly, investigates every detail of your accident, and protects your rights at every stage. You never pay upfront attorney fees, and you owe nothing unless we win your case. Contact Saeedian Law Group today for a free consultation and let us fight for every dollar you deserve.
FAQs About Bicycle Accident Lawyers in California
Bicycle accidents can leave you overwhelmed with medical bills, insurance calls, and uncertainty about your legal rights. These answers will help you understand the basics of California bicycle accident claims and what to expect as you pursue compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in California?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If a government agency or public employee is involved, you must file an administrative claim within six months, as provided by the California Tort Claims Act (CTCA).
What if the Driver Was Uninsured?
Uninsured drivers do not prevent you from seeking damages, whether it’s a bicycle or car accident. You can still pursue compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you have it. Our attorneys also explore other potential sources of recovery, including third-party liability.
Do I Have to Go to Court?
Most bicycle accident claims in California settle outside of court through negotiation. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, a lawsuit may be necessary. A skilled attorney prepares your case from day one to succeed either way.
How Much Does a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
Most bicycle accident lawyers, including Saeedian Law Group, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and the attorney only gets paid if your case is won. This structure allows you to pursue justice without financial pressure.
Can I Still Recover if I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes. California follows a pure comparative negligence system, which means you can still receive compensation even if you were partly responsible. Your total compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault.
How Much Compensation for a Cycling Accident?
There’s no fixed average settlement amount. Compensation varies widely based on medical costs, lost wages, long-term effects, and the extent of your injuries. Severe injuries typically result in higher settlements because they impact your life, work, and recovery. An attorney can evaluate your case and estimate your likely compensation.
Who Is Usually at Fault if a Bicycle Is Involved in an Accident?
Fault depends on the details, but drivers are often responsible when they fail to yield, make unsafe lane changes, or drive distracted. However, cyclists can share fault if they violate traffic rules. A lawyer reviews evidence, police reports, and California traffic laws to determine and prove liability.