Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Sacramento, California, has a robust cycling community thanks to its ideal weather conditions and picturesque routes. With an extensive network of bike lanes and trails, cycling has become a favored mode of transportation for many Sacramento residents. However, with the increasing number of bicycles on the road, the likelihood of cycling accidents has also risen. As per the data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, there were 846 bicyclists who lost their lives in traffic crashes across the United States. When a bicycle and a vehicle collide, the cyclist is often the one who suffers severe injuries or fatalities.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Sacramento, it's essential to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure that your rights are protected, and you receive the compensation you deserve. The Sacramento bicycle accident attorneys at AutoAccident.com are available to provide free, friendly legal advice. Call us at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 to discuss your case.

Here are some common factors that can cause bike accidents in Sacramento while cycling on the road.

• Bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicles on the road.
• Bicycling accidents that involve other motorists include the motorist turning left or right in front of the bike and rear-end collisions.
• Many motorists turn from a middle lane, and the bicyclist gets caught between the turning car and the curb. On the other hand, rear-end collisions happen when a vehicle rear-ends a stopped or slower bicyclist or when a bicyclist hits a vehicle that suddenly stops.

To avoid crashes with motorists, bicyclists must be focused and alert on the road. Below are some safety tips that bicyclists should do to prevent a potential collision:

• Ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Obey all street signals, signs, and road markings.
• Never assume the driver can see you.
• Look ahead for potentially hazardous situations that can cause an accident.
• Don't text or listen to music when you're on the road.

Apart from other motorists, other factors can also cause bike accidents. Four percent of bicycling accidents happen when a dog is chasing a bicyclist. Additionally, roadway defects also cause many serious crashes. In these cases, it is essential to move quickly. For example, in California, a bicyclist must file claims against government entities within 180 days. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, reach out to an injury lawyer for your legal options.

The following video explains how to avoid potholes and rough roads.

Many bicycle accidents can be caused by a defective component during the bike's assembly process. In short, the negligence of other drivers, road defects, or manufacturing problems can cause serious bicycle accidents. Hundreds of bicycles are recalled every year due to defects of the:

• Frames
• Suspension forks
• Tires
• Brakes
• Other bike parts that fail or break

An experienced Sacramento bicycle accident attorney can help you file a products liability claim against the manufacturer.

Many factors can contribute to bicycling accidents. However, bike riders may prevent them by implementing the necessary precautions for safety.

Bicyclists can also improve their riding skills to prevent accidents. Riding your bike safely in traffic requires the same preparation as driving a car. Start by riding your bicycle in a safe location, such as a park or empty parking lot. You can also take a bike riding class. Most classes are offered through your school, local bike shop, recreation department, or bike advocacy group.

Riding a bike on the road has certain risks involved, but knowing some common causes of bike accidents can definitely aid in avoiding them from happening.

If you have been seriously injured in a bicycle accident, reach out to a Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer for legal advice. Most attorneys offer free consultations.