Orangevale Bicycle Accident Lawyer

bicyclist

Orangevale is part of Sacramento County and is best known for its incredible Sierra Nevada mountain range views. As a result, Orangevale is a popular area for bicyclists. Because of this, bicyclists often share certain roadways with cars, trucks, and SUVs. This creates the risk of severe collisions between bicyclists and motorists on busy roads like Greenback Lane, Hazel Avenue, or Madison Avenue.

Unfortunately, bicyclists are at a much higher risk of injury in an accident than a motorist in California. California leads the country in the percentage of cyclists involved in accidents with motorists. 

If you or a family member was hit by a motorist while riding your bike, there are specific actions you can take to help strengthen your potential personal injury claim and your legal rights in general. Call our experienced Orangevale bicycle accident accidents today at (916) 921-6400 for a free case evaluation.

What to Do If You Are in a Bicycle Accident with a Car

The first thing that should be on your mind after an accident is seeking medical attention and treatment for your injuries. The actions described below should only be taken if you are physically able:

  • Make sure to contact the police and request an accident report.
  • Get the name, address, phone number, license number, and auto insurance information of the motorist that hit you.
  • Get the names and contact information of witnesses who may have seen the collision.
  • Look around to see if any convenience stores or other businesses may have video surveillance footage of the accident.
  • Write a summary of what occurred from your vantage point, including notes about road and traffic conditions.
  • Take photographs of your injuries, bicycle, and the street where the collision occurred.
  • Preserve all your medical bills and the time you were forced to miss work due to your injuries.
Debilitating Injuries Suffered by Bicyclists

When a bicyclist is hit by a car, truck, or SUV, the bicyclist is often left seriously damaged. This is because a bicycle offers little-to-no protection when a collision occurs. This starkly contrasts a driver with the luxury of a seatbelt and airbags. As a result, bicyclists may wind up suffering some, or a combination, of the following types of injuries:

What Can Be Pursued Through a Bicycle Injury Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one take legal action against the motorist that hit you, it is possible to pursue financial restitution for the following types of harm and losses stemming from the bicycle accident:

  • Medical bills incurred due to the accident
  • Lost wages that would have been earned had it not been for the accident
  • Future income (if you are partially or totally disabled as a proximate result of the collision)
  • Pain, suffering, mental anguish, and other non-economic harms
Time Limit to Take File a Lawsuit

In every state, specific laws limit the time an injured party has to file a lawsuit against the party they allege caused their injuries. This is known as the statute of limitations. Under the California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, an injured bicyclist has two years to file a lawsuit, starting from the accident date. This is why taking action sooner rather than later is so important.

Watch the video below for safety tips on how to share the road while riding a bike.

Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Orangevale

When a bicyclist is involved in an accident with a motor vehicle, the consequences can be devastating. Please do not hesitate to contact our Orangevale bicycle accident lawyers immediately if you or your loved one has been injured. We can be reached at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 online for free and friendly advice. 

We are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.

See our client reviews on AvvoYelp, and Google and our past verdicts and settlements.

Editor’s Note: updated [cha 7.21.23] Photo by bruce mars from Pexels sid rey [cs 689]

Client Reviews
★★★★★
"Me and my wife; had a car accident. We were amazed how easy, professional, friendly attorney Ed Smith is along with his staff. Everybody is amazing. Thank you so much, we are very impressed!" Alex & Dinah M.
★★★★★
"Ed Smith and his office team took on a difficult personal injury case on my behalf and for the passenger in my car. Ed is a top- notch attorney. His staff couldn't have been more helpful and kind. No need to look elsewhere. I give Ed Smith my highest recommendation." Beverly
★★★★★
"Ed and Robert have been taking great care of my husband and I for the past 5+ years. They are always there when you have a problem and a quick resolution! Even when the issues have nothing to do with them. They are willing to help ease the pain off your shoulders. They are as good as it gets! Thank you again for everything." Annie T.
★★★★★
"Very professional. Great team, staff and service all around. Mr Smith was very honest, straight forward with his advice. He gives the word "attorney" an honest reputation. I will seek his council anytime, and would recommend him at the drop of a dime." Jeremy M.
★★★★★
"I would highly recommend Ed Smith to any friends or family in need of a personal injury attorney. Ed, and his staff, are very caring on top of being very experienced in this field. The staff always keeps you informed of the status of your case and they are always easy to reach by phone." Shannon D.
★★★★★
"Edward Smith law offices provide competent, thorough, and personable help for victims of personal injury. When you first meet the staff you know you contacted the right office. This law office treats clients like people. I recommend this office to anyone seeking representation regarding personal injury." David M.