Bicycle accident fatalities account for about 2 percent of all traffic-related deaths, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While that number may seem small, it becomes devastating when the victim is you or someone you love. After a bicycle accident, the first and most important step is to call the police. Many bicycle collisions go unreported, which can weaken your ability to file a successful claim later.
Because collisions between bicyclists and motor vehicle drivers are legally classified as auto accidents, injured cyclists have the right to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other related costs.
Your next call should be to a Bakersfield Bicycle Accident Lawyer such as Donald Colvin. He ensures you are not overlooked, blamed, or pressured into accepting less than you deserve. Attorney Colvin understands your rights and fights aggressively for the financial recovery you are entitled to. When you are injured, our experienced personal injury team is here to provide the support and representation you need.
Bicycle riding is rapidly growing in popularity throughout California. With more cyclists on the streets and trails, the number of bicycle accidents has increased. A 2020 report from U.S. News & World Report revealed that bicycle-related fatalities reached a 25-year high in California and continue to rise nationwide.
As cycling becomes more common, safety education becomes even more essential. Understanding Bakersfield bicycle laws and practicing defensive riding can help reduce the risk of severe injuries. When accidents do occur, they can be catastrophic, requiring the guidance of a dedicated bike crash attorney in Bakersfield.
Bicyclists must follow the same traffic laws as all other vehicles on the road. These rules include:
Stopping at red lights and stop signs
Signaling turns and lane changes
Yielding to pedestrians
Riding on the right side of the road with traffic
Using the designated bike lane when available
California bicycle safety laws also require:
Drivers to maintain at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist
Cyclists to wear helmets (especially minors)
Bikes to have lights and reflectors when riding at night
Understanding and following these laws not only improves safety but also strengthens your case if an accident occurs.
Several factors contribute to the rising number of bicycle accidents in Bakersfield and throughout California:
With more people cycling for recreation, commuting, or exercise, the potential for collisions naturally increases.
Even a momentary distraction—such as adjusting the radio or glancing at a cellphone—can result in a serious collision with a bicyclist.
Tailgating, blocking bike lanes, or excessive honking can cause cyclists to lose control or veer into unsafe positions.
Drivers often fail to check blind spots or intersections for bicycles, leading to preventable crashes.
Cyclists are especially vulnerable to:
Gravel
Potholes
Road debris
Slippery pavement
Construction zones
These hazards can cause riders to fall into traffic or lose control of their bike. Our Bakersfield attorneys investigate every detail to determine the cause of the accident and identify all responsible parties.
Bicycle accidents frequently lead to serious injuries because riders have little bodily protection. Common injuries include:
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Head and facial injuries
Broken bones and fractures
Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
Severe soft tissue injuries
Internal injuries
Wrongful death
These injuries often require long-term medical treatment, making legal representation essential to securing fair compensation.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Bakersfield, California, it is critical to contact a top-rated attorney as soon as possible. The statute of limitations limits how long you have to file a claim, and delaying can affect your ability to recover compensation.
Speak with a Bakersfield Bicycle Accident Lawyer today to protect your rights and begin building a strong case for recovery.
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