Orange County Bicycle Accident Attorney

Orange County provides the perfect climate and backdrop for biking. In light of the area’s busy traffic conditions, many people in Irvine, Costa Mesa, and throughout the OC use bicycles to commute or simply to enjoy some recreation on the weekends. Although riding your bike can be a great way to get around while getting some exercise, it’s not without its dangers. A bicycle accident can lead to serious injuries that require extensive medical care and rehabilitation. Know your legal options following a bicycle accident and when to contact an Orange County bicycle accident attorney.

Unique Considerations for Bike Accidents in California

Bicyclists are in a vulnerable position on California’s roadways. They may not be immediately visible to drivers on the road, and many drivers are not accustomed to sharing the road with bikers. Bicyclists are also unprotected. They ride without the luxury of seatbelts, airbags, or other safety measures that can prevent injury. Though helmets can offer some protection, they do little to prevent extensive injuries when in an accident with a motor vehicle.

California law for bike riders states that motorists have an obligation to share the road with other bicyclists. Unfortunately, they do not always follow these rules, and bicyclists incur serious injury. This rule, however, also gives cyclists some legal ground to stand on when seeking compensation for their injuries.

What is a Bicycle Accident Claim Worth?

A bicycle accident can result in serious and sometimes permanent injuries. A crash can leave a victim with expensive medical bills, property damage, lost wages due to time away from work, psychological pain and suffering, and other losses. A victim can recover financial compensation from the at-fault party through a personal injury lawsuit. For example, if the accident was caused by a driver’s negligence or a defective bike component, a victim can recover damages from the driver or a manufacturer. A bicycle accident claim can help a victim recover economic, non-economid and sometimes punitive damages. Speak with the experienced Orange County bicycle accident lawyers with Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP to discuss how much your case is worth. Our law firm has a history of securing large settlements and verdicts for our clients. Call us today to schedule a free initial consultation.

What to Do After a Bike Accident in Orange County?

The hours, days, and weeks following a bike accident can be confusing. However, your actions are important to your personal injury case. Take the following steps after an accident:

1. Ask to provide a statement for the police report. The CHP or local Orange County police will arrive on the scene of an accident to take pictures, get eyewitness statements, and conduct an investigation. Unfortunately, they likely will not ask for yours, as you’ll be on your way to the hospital for treatment. When you’re feeling up to it, call the police station and ask to provide a statement for the police report. This will make your version of events a matter of official record.
2. Don’t sign anything from the insurance company. The driver’s insurance company may contact you and ask for a recorded statement or they might ask you to sign an offer. We strongly urge consulting with personal injury attorneys like Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP before signing any documents.
3. Keep your doctor’s appointments. It’s essential to keep your appointments so you can heal and get back on your feet, but it may also have a bearing on your personal injury case. When deciding your “pain and suffering,” a jury might not look favorably on you missing doctor’s appointments.

Our Orange County Bicycle Accident Attorneys Offer Free Consultations!

There are many factors that make bicycle accidents complex legal matters. If you or a loved one suffered harm in a bike accident, contact the Orange County bicycle accident lawyers of Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP as soon as possible. Even if you’re unsure of your legal options, contact us. Consultations are always free, and we offer our services on a contingency fee basis – this means you’ll only owe a fee if we win compensation on your behalf. Schedule your free case review. Call us today!