San Francisco is a city full of people who love to ride their bicycles every chance they get, whether it’s for pleasure or as an alternate transport to get to work. It’s one of the charms of the city, but it also increases the likelihood that two-wheeled accidents will occur. Statistics confirm this.
Nationwide, the number of bicycle commuters has risen by more than 60 percent in the past decade. And while bike accident deaths account for about 2 percent of all fatalities nationally, in California, they represent about 4 percent of all fatalities.
Not surprisingly, as a result, the field of bicycle injury law has seen a rise in importance as well. As the roads in the city become more dangerous, the need to hold drivers accountable becomes increasingly important. When an accident takes place, the need to be fairly compensated has taken on added importance.
Because bike accidents can take place many different ways, there is no single way to pursue a legal claim. Therefore, it is critical to choose an attorney who is well versed in California bike laws so that you have the best chance of getting the settlement you are entitled to. An attorney may pursue a claim in many possible ways:
Negligence
Violations of the California Vehicle Code
Recklessness
Pain and suffering
Negligent infliction of emotional distress
Insurance bad faith
Mechanical failure of a bike
Unrealized dangers in construction zones
It should be noted that bike riders have the same rights and bear the same responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. They must have lights and reflective gear in place. They must also obey all traffic laws, stopping at stop signs and at traffic lights.
Choulos, Choulos & Wyle proudly serve clients in San Francisco, Oakland and in cities throughout the Bay Area.
