Bicycle Accidents
A subtype of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Start your free evaluation
A licensed California lawyer responds right away · free consult, nothing to pay until you're compensated
About Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents in California are governed by the same traffic laws as motor vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Common causes include dooring, right-turn collisions, and failure to yield. Because cyclists lack the protection of a vehicle, injuries are often more severe. If you were struck while cycling, be sure to preserve evidence at the scene and seek medical attention promptly.
What insurance companies won't tell you
The first offer is usually low
Adjusters' first offers are often on the low side, and many people accept without knowing. Before you sign anything, it's worth hearing a lawyer out.
Your calls may be recorded
Anything you say to the insurance company can be recorded and affect your claim. Once you have a lawyer, the insurer generally has to communicate with your lawyer instead.
Delay is a common tactic
Medical bills keep growing while they wait for you to get anxious. A lawyer keeps following up and applying pressure so your claim doesn't stall.
What to do right now
Don't talk to the other driver's insurance alone
The other side's adjuster aims to pay as little as possible. Until you have a lawyer, you don't have to give a recorded statement or sign anything.
Photograph everything at the scene with your phone
Vehicles, road conditions, injuries, the other driver's plate and insurance — photos and video are the strongest evidence.
See a doctor soon, even if you feel fine
Injuries can show up days later, and timely medical records matter a great deal to your claim.
Keep every receipt and report
Medical bills, the police report, proof of missed work — every document can affect your compensation.
Talk to a lawyer as early as you can
The earlier a lawyer gets involved, the more completely the evidence is preserved. The consultation is free.
Your call is answered directly by the named member-attorney team — never sold to third parties.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have the same road rights as a car when cycling?
Yes. California gives cyclists the same road rights and duties as motor vehicles (Veh. Code §21200). A driver violating the Three Feet for Safety Act (§21760) or dooring you (§22517) is direct evidence of negligence.
Who is at fault in a dooring crash?
Usually the person who opened the door. Veh. Code §22517 prohibits opening a door on the traffic side unless it's reasonably safe. Unless the cyclist genuinely couldn't have been seen, the door-opener generally bears the fault.
I was on my bike — can my auto insurance still help?
Often yes, and most people don't know it: the UM/UIM coverage on your own auto policy typically covers you when you're struck by a vehicle while cycling or walking. It's often the key source when the driver fled or has no insurance.
Does riding without a helmet (as an adult) hurt my claim?
California only requires helmets under age 18 (§21212). Adults riding without one aren't breaking the law; insurers may argue comparative fault for head injuries specifically, but other injuries are unaffected.
General information, not legal advice.
Other cases in this category
Motor Vehicle Accidents lawyers by city
Get a free case evaluation
Injured in California? Share a few details and we'll connect you with a California attorney.