• Amputation
• Brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Facial injuries
• Internal injuries and bleeding
• Lacerations
• Ligament sprains and muscle and tendon strains
• Neck and back injuries, including whiplash and herniated discs
• Road rash, abrasions, and avulsions
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis

Some common causes of bicycle collisions in Fremont include:

California laws protect everyone who uses the road, including motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Because bicyclists have the same rights as motorists, both are expected to coexist on our roadways. Due to the bicycle’s nature as a slower vehicle with less protection, some laws regarding riding a bike are required.

Staying to the Right: Bicyclists must ride with the flow of traffic. Since cyclists travel slower than regular traffic, they must ride in a designated bike lane or closer to the right side of the road. Bikers can move into another lane in certain situations, such as:

• Passing a car, another bicycle, or pedestrian traveling in the same direction.
• Making a left turn at an intersection, onto a driveway or road.
• Avoiding dangerous road conditions or narrow lanes.
• Approaching a road where a right turn is allowed.

Following The Three Feet Rule: According to California’s Three Feet for Safety Act, drivers must provide at least a 3-feet distance when passing a bicyclist traveling in the same direction. If road conditions or traffic prevent a driver from obeying the three feet rule, the motorist must slow down and pass the bicycle only when it is safe. Even when keeping a reasonable distance from bicyclists, motorists are expected to make safe and predictable movements to protect the riders.

Some other California laws governing bicycles include:

• Bicycles may not carry passengers unless designed and equipped with a seat.
• Bicycles may not ride on roads with a speed limit over 50 mph.
• Helmets are required for all bicycle riders under the age of 16.
• A noticeable white light should be secured to the bike or cyclist when riding at night.
• Bicycles must be equipped with brakes that allow the rider to come to a complete stop on a dry, level, and clean pavement.

Drivers should always watch for bicyclists, leave room for cyclists and share the road. Bicyclists can also take the following steps to keep themselves safer on the roadways:

• Check your bicycle’s brakes and tires before riding.
• Always wear a bicycle helmet.
• Always wear reflective or brightly colored clothing.
• Ride defensively. Never assume what a motorist will do.
• Always be prepared to act to avoid a collision.

In most cases, the negligent motorist who hit the bicyclist will be liable for the accident. However, depending on the facts and circumstances of the accident, other parties may have liability, including:

• The bike manufacturer, if a defect causes the crash.
• The vehicle manufacturer, if a defective auto part causes an accident.
• The driver’s employer, if the accident happened while the driver was on the clock.
• Government entities, if the bicycle accident was caused by unsafe roadways or malfunctioning traffic signals.

If you are hit by a motor vehicle while riding your bicycle, you may be able to file an injury claim to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.

• You can file a suit against the at-fault driver.
• If the negligent driver has little or no insurance, you may file a claim with your insurer under your uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage insurance policy. With UM/UIM coverage, your own insurance company steps in for the at-fault driver’s insurance, covering the compensation the other party would be liable to pay.
• You may also file a claim through your insurance under your policy’s MedPay or personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.

After you have been hurt in a bike collision, our Fremont bicycle accident lawyers at AutoAccident.com can help you pursue monetary recovery from the negligent driver or another liable party. Our experienced accident lawyers can assist you with:

• Gathering evidence from the accident scene and collecting your medical records, income statements, and bills to build your case.
• Working with medical, financial, and accident reconstruction experts to help us effectively argue the other party’s liability for the injuries and the damages you incurred.
• Filing your injury claim with the other party’s insurance company.
• Negotiating with the insurance company for a fair financial recovery.
• If necessary, take your case to court to demand a favorable result on your behalf.

Watch the following video for information on choosing the best bicycle accident lawyer for your case.

If you were injured while riding a bike in Fremont or elsewhere in Alameda County, don’t hesitate to contact a skilled bike accident lawyer for help. Contact our Fremont bicycle accident attorneys at AutoAccident.com today for a free, no-obligation case review. Call us today at (510) 631-0200 or (800) 404-5400 to get started on your free and friendly case advice.