Bicycle Accident Attorneys In Sacramento

Sacramento (Spanish for sacrament), is not only the capital city of California but also a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history. Nestled in the heart of Northern California's Central Valley, Sacramento offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers, making it a pleasant place to explore throughout the year.

When it comes to cycling, Sacramento offers both pros and cons. On the positive side, the city has a relatively flat terrain, making it accessible for cyclists of all skill levels. Sacramento has an extensive network of bike lanes and paths, with many streets featuring designated bike lanes, making it easier and safer for cyclists to navigate through the city. The American River Parkway, a 32-mile-long trail that runs along the American River, is a popular spot for cycling, offering scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

However, there are also some challenges for cyclists in Sacramento. The city's urban infrastructure can be inconsistent in terms of bike infrastructure, with some areas lacking dedicated bike lanes or proper signage. Despite these challenges, Sacramento has made efforts to improve its cycling infrastructure in recent years, with ongoing projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing bike accessibility and safety. However, accidents still occur, and when they do, you need a dependable bicycle accident attorney to protect your rights and fight for justice. Thus, Bike Legal comes into play.

Have you been injured in a bicycle accident?

Contact the best team of cycling accident attorneys in Sacramento, CA

today for your free consultation

Call 877-BIKE LEGAL

(877-245-3534)

Resources for Sacramento California Cyclists

• California Bicycle Coalition Bicycle Laws
• California DMV Info for Bicyclists
• Sacramento Area Bicycle Advocates
• City of Sacramento Bicycling Program
• California Bicycle Omnibus Law
• Read our article on the new California safety law OmniBike Bill
• Read our blog for important cycling news and safety articles
  

Prioritize Your Safety

After a bicycle accident, your safety should be your top priority. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic and assess your injuries. If you have suffered a severe injury, dial 911 immediately for medical assistance. Even if your injuries appear to be minor, you should still seek medical attention because some injuries are not immediately apparent.

Exchange Information 

Obtain information from the driver, including their name, address, driver's license number, and insurance information. If there were any witnesses, you should also collect their contact information. Photograph the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and your bicycle's damage.

Report the Accident

It is imperative that the accident be reported to law enforcement even if you don’t immediately feel injured. Contact the Sacramento Police Department or the California Highway Patrol and provide them with exact incident details. The accident report can be helpful when filing an insurance claim or seeking legal counsel.

Preserve Evidence

Preserve any and all accident-related evidence. This includes maintaining the condition of your damaged bicycle, helmet, and clothing. If you have visible wounds, document their healing with photographs. This evidence could prove essential in establishing liability and bolstering your case.

Consult a Bicycle Accident Lawyer 

After receiving medical attention and ensuring your safety, consult a reputable Sacramento bicycle accident attorney. They have the knowledge to guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and assist you in pursuing just compensation for your injuries, medical bills, property damage, and other losses.

Adhere to Medical Recommendations

Adhere to the instructions of your healthcare provider and attend all necessary medical appointments. Your medical records will play a crucial role in documenting the extent of your injuries and their effect on your life. Additionally, following the prescribed treatment plan demonstrates your dedication to recovery, which can strengthen your legal position.

Be Aware of Deadlines

California's statutes of limitations restrict the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit following a bicycle accident. It is essential to be aware of these deadlines and consult with a bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines.

To reduce the risk of bicycle accidents, follow these 10 safety tips:

1. Wear a Helmet! If you have ever questioned wearing a helmet, please read this article “The Truth About Your Helmet”
2. Obey all traffic laws. Remember, in California bicycles are considered vehicles and must adhere to the same laws as motorists.
3. Be Visible. Wear reflective clothing and use front and rear lights at night and day.
4. Stay Alert and focused. Always scan the road ahead for obstacles and debris. Avoid distractions and do not wear headphones.
5. Ride Defensively. Assume that motorists may not see you and always be prepared to yield if necessary.
6. Plan a safe route. Plan your route ahead of time prioritizing roads with bike lanes or dedicated bicycle routes.
7. Perform a bicycle safety checklist before heading out on your ride. “ABC” checklist includes air pressure in your tires, checking your brakes, and lubing your chain.
8. Ride predictably and Communicate. Stay in the bike lane and use hand signals to communicate to drivers if you are turning, slowing, or stopping.
9. Watch for car doors opening. Also known as “dooring”, be on the lookout for people in cars that may open their doors in your path of travel.
10. Be prepared for accidents BEFORE they happen. Our number one tip for cyclists is to make sure they have at least $250k in UIM insurance on their own auto insurance. Learn more about Uninsured Motorist Protection in our article “Are You Protected?”

By adhering to these Top 10 Safety Tips to Avoid Bicycle Crashes, you will be better protected in the event of a bicycle accident and your rights will be protected. Contact a reputable Sacramento bicycle accident attorney to discuss your case and obtain the legal support you require if you have been injured. Be cautious and enjoy the ride!