Bicycle Accident Overview

The good news is bike ridership on public roads is way up. Every year, more and more cyclists are taking to the streets for a variety of reasons – to get healthy, to make the earth cleaner, commute without traffic jams. Unfortunately, California laws have failed to keep pace with the realities of the road. While bicycles continue to be treated the same as motor vehicles in most legal respects, the reality of riding a bike is very different from driving a car. Oftentimes, the safety of the rider takes a back seat to motor vehicle traffic. As a rider himself, Michael Phillips is very familiar with the tactics insurance companies use to deny bicycle crash claims and understand how the California Vehicle Code affects your case. 

Bicycle Accident FAQ's

 The Phillips Law Offices answers some of the most frequently asked questions about injury accidents and claims. We hope this information will give you an idea as to how to move forward with your matter. The legal issues surrounding personal injury cases may at times seem overly complicated, and even overwhelming at times. There is no need to feel that way. We’re here to help explore the answers to the questions you may have or just give us a call. Since every case has unique facts and circumstances, we’d be glad to discuss the specific details of your case and any specific questions you have. We invite you to give us a call at 530-265-0186 for a no-charge consultation.

California Bicycle Laws

The California Vehicle Code contains specific laws that specify how riders must safely operate bicycles. Generally, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as car drivers. (CVC 21200) and must follow the vehicle code when on public streets. For your benefit, we summarized the key sections of the Vehicle Code that relate to cycling. 

Hit and Run Bicycle Crashes

Why do drivers flee after causing an accident with a cyclist? Thankfully, most drivers stay at the scene, but there are any number of reasons why a motorist might flee the scene of an accident with a bicyclist. Were they high, drunk, or both; had no license, a suspended license or a revoked license; was uninsured; had outstanding warrants or were fleeing from another crime? If the driver who caused the accident is eventually found, a civil claim seeking damages should be filed right away in additional to criminal charges for "hit and run".

If the driver in never found, and you have uninsured motorist insurance (UIM) on your car, you can probably seek compensation for your injuries through your own insurance company.