Santa Maria Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Every year, more than 100 people are killed in bicycle collisions in California. In 2019, a total of 843 bicyclists were killed in crashes with motor vehicles in the US. Thousands more are injured. Many accidents are caused by a lack of motorist attention — cyclists are at a serious disadvantage in a collision with a car, truck, or motorcycle. If you or your loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, seek representation from the Santa Maria bicycle accident lawyers at James McKiernan Lawyers.
What are Some Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
At James McKiernan Lawyers, we understand the pleasure and practicality of riding a bicycle. However, we also understand the risks bicyclists run when taking even a short ride down the block. Children are particularly in danger because of their smaller size and underdeveloped safety instincts. Here are the most common causes of bicycle accidents:
- Not obeying traffic laws ― Motorists or bicyclists failing to yield the right-of-way.
- Aggressive Driving ― Motorists overtaking bicyclists without careful precautions and enough distance.
- Not using signals ― Motorists unexpectedly turning or bicyclists unexpectedly turning.
- Distracted drivers ― Distracted driving behaviors include texting, talking on a mobile phone, rubbernecking, and adjusting technologies such as radio, GPS, etc.
- Drunk driving or driving under the influence ― Drivers who are under the influence of medication, alcohol or drugs pose serious danger to bicyclists on the road.
- Speeding ― Speeding increases the risk of crashing and reduces the time necessary to analyze the situation and avoid a crash.
Important Information About Santa Maria Bicycle Accidents
In California, bicyclists and motorists obey the same traffic laws and carry the same responsibilities. Bicyclists must ride with traffic and in the same direction, ride on the right side of the road and signal lane switch or turns, use bike lanes when possible, yield to pedestrians, obey all the stop signs and crosswalk regulations, use lights and reflectors, keep one ear uncovered and more.
A bicycle accident is almost always the result of somebody’s negligence whether it is the other party or the bicyclist. If the party at fault is the driver, the cyclist has a legal right to be compensated for the injuries and losses. Medical bills and the costs of the bike and other equipment that was damaged in the accident in many cases are very high therefore it is important to seek legal representation. If the other party is at fault and does not have insurance, the case may become very complicated. Our experienced bicycle accident lawyers in Santa Maria are familiar with all of the options available to maximize recoveries for victims of bicycle accidents.
Contact Our Santa Maria Bicycle Accidents Attorney
At James McKiernan Lawyers, we conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, including identifying all responsible parties and establishing a comprehensive estimate of future medical costs and other damages. We believe everybody has the right to excellent representation, even if the case might be difficult.
Our office has successfully taken on difficult and challenging cases that other lawyers thought could not be won. If you have been injured in a Santa Maria bicycle accident, contact James McKiernan Lawyers for a free consultation with a top-quality bicycle accident attorney to discuss your best options to receive compensation for your injuries.
