Shasta Lake Bicycle Accident Lawyer | AutoAccident.com
Shasta Lake Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Shasta Lake is a popular destination for bicycling enthusiasts because of its diverse terrain and scenic beauty. Cyclists can enjoy breathtaking views of Shasta Lake and surrounding mountains while exploring the many trails and routes in the area. The region is also home to several cycling events which attract riders from all over the country.
Bicyclists have a right to be safe on the road. However, statistics show many bicycle accidents occur each year on California roads. This indicates that careless drivers and other hazards pose a serious safety concern for bicyclists.
If you have been hurt in a bicycle accident in Shasta Lake or elsewhere in Shasta County, call our legal team at (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400 to schedule a free no-obligation consultation with one of our injury attorneys.
Bicycle Accident Statistics in CaliforniaAccording to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), in 2020, there were 12,780 bicycle accidents reported in California. Of these accidents, 155 were fatal, and 11,371 resulted in injuries.
The OTS also provides the following statistics for bicycle accidents in California in 2020:
- 81 percent occurred in urban areas
- 68 percent happened during the day
- 74 percent occurred at non-intersection locations
- 62 percent were involved in a crash with a motor vehicle
- 21 percent of cyclists were under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- 5 percent involved a hit-and-run driver
Bicycle accidents can result in various injuries, some of which can be severe or life-threatening. Some of the most common injuries sustained in a bicycle crash include:
- Head injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are common in bicycle accidents. Wearing a helmet can help prevent or reduce the severity of head injuries.
- Fractures: Bones can be broken or fractured in a bicycle accident, including arms, legs, and the pelvis.
- Road rash: Road rash is a skin injury caused by friction with the pavement. This injury can range from minor scrapes to severe abrasions.
- Soft tissue injuries: Ligaments, tendons, and muscles can be stretched or torn in a bicycle accident, resulting in strains, sprains, or other soft tissue injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries: The impact of a bicycle accident can cause spinal cord injuries such as herniated disks, fractures, or other trauma to the spinal cord.
- Internal injuries: A bicycle accident can also result in internal injuries, including damage to internal organs, internal bleeding, or other trauma.
If you are involved in a bicycle collision, taking specific steps to protect your health, safety, and legal rights is essential. Here are some things to do following a bike accident:
- Seek medical care: If you are injured, get medical attention immediately, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe.
- Contact the police: Call the police to report the accident and ask them to come to the scene. They will file an accident report, which can be necessary for insurance and legal purposes.
- Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the driver(s) involved in the accident. Obtain the driver’s name, phone number, address, and insurance information, and the make and model of the vehicle.
- Document the accident: Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle or other property. This evidence may be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
- Notify your insurance company: Contact your insurance company to report the accident.
- Consult an injury lawyer: If you are seriously injured or have questions about your legal rights, contact an experienced Shasta Lake bicycle accident attorney who can advise you.
Liability for injuries in a bicycle accident depends on the circumstances of the accident. Potential parties that may be held liable for injuries sustained in a bicycle accident include the following:
- The driver: If a motorist disobeys traffic laws or drives while distracted or drunk, it causes a crash.
- The manufacturer: If the bicycle was defective and caused the accident.
- Government agencies: If a road is poorly designed or maintained and causes an accident.
- Other cyclists or pedestrians: If another cyclist or pedestrian enters a bike lane and causes a collision.
Determining liability in a bicycle accident can be complex, and consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney who can advise you on your legal options is essential.
How an Injury Lawyer Can Help YouHiring an injury lawyer can be highly beneficial if you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident. Below are some ways an attorney can help you with your bicycle accident case:
- Investigate the accident to determine who was at fault. This can involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports and medical records, and gathering other evidence supporting your case.
- Help you find the medical treatment you need to recover from your injuries. They can also make sure that your medical bills are taken care of.
- Negotiate with the insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
- If the case goes to court, an injury attorney can represent you and protect your rights.
- Calculate your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and ensure you receive a fair settlement.
Watch the YouTube video below to learn how a personal injury lawyer can help you with your accident case.
Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Shasta Lake, CAOur dedicated Shasta Lake bicycle accident attorneys understand the extensive damage a motor vehicle can do when it hits a bicyclist. If you or a family member has been seriously injured in a bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, call our experienced Shasta Lake bicycle lawyers at (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.
Our legal team at AutoAccident.com has helped countless individuals and families recover the compensation they deserve after these severe accidents since 1982.
See our past cases on our verdicts and settlements page.
Editor’s Note: updated [cha 9.12.23] Photo by David Dvořáček on Unsplash cha llo [cs 1009]