Bicycling poses a challenge as riders have to share the road with motor vehicle drivers, who are faster and heavier. Even minor collisions can lead to severe physical damage for cyclists. In the event of an accident, seeking the assistance of a Newport Beach bicycle accident lawyer is crucial. Learn more here about how by working with a personal injury attorney, victims may be able to pursue compensation for the physical and psychological trauma resulting from the accident and achieve a favorable outcome.
Understanding Bicycle Laws in California:
California law treats bicyclists like any other driver on the road. According to California Vehicle Code §21200, bicyclists must follow all traffic rules and ride on the right-hand side of the road with the flow of traffic. This means obeying traffic signals, speed limits, stop signs, and other applicable rules of the road.
Bicycle Lane Rules in California:
Under California Vehicle Code §21208, bicyclists are required to use a bicycle lane if one is present on the road and they are traveling slower than the speed of traffic. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Bicyclists are allowed to leave the bike lane in situations such as when they are overtaking a pedestrian or another bike, preparing to make a left turn, or avoiding hazards in the bike lane.
Pure Comparative Negligence in Bicycle Accident Cases:
In bicycle accident cases in California, understanding the laws applicable to bicyclists is crucial due to the state’s pure comparative negligence rules. These rules mean that in a collision between a bicyclist and a motor vehicle, the driver may claim that the bicyclist shares some fault for the incident.
However, under pure comparative negligence, a bicyclist who is found to be partially at fault for an accident may still be able to recover damages. For example, if a court awards a bicyclist $100,000 in damages, but finds them 25 percent at fault for the accident, the bicyclist would still be able to recover $75,000. With the help of a Newport Beach bicycle accident attorney, a plaintiff can navigate the complexities of these legal claims and potentially achieve a favorable outcome.
Final thoughts:
It is important to provide a Newport Beach bicycle accident attorney with all the details of an incident, especially if the case involves the use of a bicycle lane. Understanding the full context of the situation can allow for a more thorough consultation and representation. With the help of an experienced lawyer, victims of bicycle accidents may be able to pursue compensation for any injuries sustained due to the negligence of others.
