Drivers of motor vehicles often understand the importance of sharing the road with pedestrians and bicyclists. However, sometimes they do not always act responsibly; the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that, in the U.S. in 2011, 677 bicyclists were killed, or two percent of all traffic-related deaths in that year. Males comprised 69 percent of fatalities in the 14-and-younger age group, which accounted for nine percent of the bicyclist death rate.
While some bicycle accidents in California may happen as a result of a product defect or manufacturer negligence such as poorly designed tires or faulty brakes, they often occur due to motorist distraction or inattention. If a motorist fails to see bicyclists in blind spots or fails to check for bicyclists when turning or changing lanes, an accident can occur. Additionally, a motorist may speed past bicyclists, fail to adhere to traffic regulations and laws, open doors in front of bicyclists or drive while distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Drivers may not give bicyclists the rights to which they are entitled while on the road, or they may not see them on the road at all. In order to successfully litigate a bicycle accident case, a California bicycle accident lawyer must have specialized skills, knowledge and experience, as these cases are often complex. Additionally, although the driver may be held responsible for the accident, another party may also be liable such as:
- The mechanic responsible for inspecting the vehicle
- The manufacturer of the defective parts that caused the accident
- The manufacturer of the vehicle
For example, a driver may attempt to speed around a bicyclist and thus act out of negligence. However, if a driver is speeding and his or her brakes give out and the driver is unable to stop the vehicle, those injured may also be able to hold the manufacturer of the brakes or the mechanic who last checked the brakes responsible.
Need a California bicycle accident lawyer? Attorney Group for California Can Help
If you or a loved one are involved in a bicycle accident in California, you may be eligible to recover damages for your injuries with assistance from a California bicycle accident lawyer. To receive a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case, contact Attorney Group for California. We understand how devastating bicycle accidents can be, both to the victim and his or her family, and we can answer your questions and help you determine if you have a claim.
We can also connect you with an affiliated California bicycle accident lawyer who can help you seek the compensation to which you may be entitled, including property damage, loss of potential earnings or wages, loss of parental or spousal support, rehabilitation costs, emotional stress and pain and suffering.
