Intersections are not where most bicyclists spend their time, but they represent one of the riskiest areas for a cyclist. Out of the more than 11,000 bicyclists that suffered injuries in crashes during the latest reporting year in the state, many of them were hurt in intersection crashes. At Choulos, Choulos & Wyle, our San Francisco bicycle crash lawyers want to discuss some of the dangers that intersections most to bicyclists.
Why Do Intersections Present More Danger To Bicyclists?
Intersections are going to be more dangerous for bicyclists because this is the area where so much activity is taking place. Vehicles are stopping and starting, pedestrians are trying to cross the roadways, and bicyclists are riding through.
One of the main causes of bicycle accidents at intersections are drivers who fail to yield the right of way. Generally, when two vehicles (which includes a bicycle) approach an intersection, the vehicle that arrives first has the right of way. Unfortunately, vehicle drivers do not often treat cyclists with the respect they should be afforded. At intersections, vehicle drivers also regularly turn when they are not supposed to, occasionally slamming into cyclists who are crossing legally.
In some instances, bicycle intersections crashes will occur because traffic signals or signs are broken, missing, or obscured. In these cases, government agencies responsible for maintenance may be held liable.
What Kind Of Compensation Is Available?
There are various types of compensation that may be available for bicycle accidents. Each case is different, and the total amount of compensation a victim is entitled to will vary depending on the circumstances of their particular case. However, the team at Choulos, Choulos & Wyle regularly helps clients obtain the following compensation if they have been harmed due to another person’s negligent actions:
Coverage of all medical bills related to their case
Compensation for lost wages if a victim cannot work
Possible punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
Pain and suffering and loss of personal enjoyment damages
The cost of repair for any property damage
What Is The Time Limit To File A Claim?
Each state is responsible for setting the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including bicycle accidents. In California, a bicyclist who has been injured due to the negligence of another party has two years from the date the incident occurs to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
However, for claims made against a negligent government agency (state, county, city), the statute of limitations is only six months from the date the incident occurs. For intersection accidents, it could be the case that the government agency responsible for intersection inspection and maintenance caused the crash. Be aware that this six-month time limit may apply in those cases.
Will An Attorney Be Necessary For These Cases?
An attorney is usually going to be necessary if a bicyclist is harmed due to the negligent actions of another person. Most injury victims do not have the resources or experience necessary to properly investigate the incident. A skilled and experienced San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer will be able to:
Obtain all evidence related to the incident (photographs, video surveillance, accident reports, eyewitness statements, etc.).
Work with a trusted medical professional to calculate a victim’s total losses.
Negotiate with all parties involved to receive a fair settlement for the client.
When you need a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer, Choulos, Choulos & Wyle is ready to help. You can contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or calling (877) 702-7800.
