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Your Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Sacramento

After a bicycle accident, having a seasoned bicycle accident lawyer on your side is essential to protect your rights and make sure you receive the full compensation you deserve. You’ll find detailed information about the causes of bicycle crashes, safety tips, your legal options, including claims against negligent drivers, manufacturers, or government entities, and how our experienced Sacramento bicycle accident attorneys can guide you at every step of the recovery process.

Sacramento is a city built for cyclists — from the American River Bike Trail to the busy streets of Midtown and Downtown. Every day, thousands of riders share the road with cars, trucks, and buses. Unfortunately, this vibrant bike culture also means a higher risk of serious collisions. The California Office of Traffic Safety ranks Sacramento among the top counties for bicycle crashes, with distracted drivers, unsafe lane changes, and dooring accidents leading the list.

At AutoAccident.com, we’ve represented injured cyclists across Sacramento for more than 40 years. We understand the unique challenges riders face — from traumatic injuries to insurance companies that try to shift the blame. Our mission is simple: protect Sacramento’s cycling community and fight for the compensation injured riders need to heal and move forward.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Sacramento

Most bicycle accidents are preventable and stem from driver negligence or unsafe conditions. Understanding the common causes can help riders stay alert and build stronger legal claims after a crash.

Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes of bicycle crashes in Sacramento is distracted driving. When motorists text, use GPS, or take their eyes off the road, they can easily drift into bike lanes or fail to notice cyclists at intersections.

Unsafe Turns and Right-Hook Collisions

Cyclists are especially vulnerable at intersections. Drivers making right turns without checking their mirrors often cut off riders traveling straight, causing serious “right-hook” accidents.

Dooring Accidents

In Midtown and Downtown, where parking lines many streets, “dooring” is a common hazard. This happens when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, leaving no time to react.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

When drivers speed through neighborhoods, ignore bike lanes, or fail to yield, the chance of a severe crash rises sharply. High-speed impacts often lead to catastrophic injuries for cyclists.

Poor Road Conditions

Potholes, uneven pavement, and poorly marked bike lanes increase accident risk. The city has invested in bike-friendly infrastructure, but hazards remain on heavily traveled roads like J Street and Florin Road.

Tips for Staying Safe While Riding a Bicycle

To avoid crashes with motorists, bicyclists must be focused and alert on the road. Below are some safety tips that bicyclists should do to prevent a potential collision:

Ride in the same direction as traffic.

Obey all street signals, signs, and road markings.

Never assume the driver can see you.

Look ahead for potentially hazardous situations that can cause an accident.

Don’t text or listen to music when you’re on the road.

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    “I recommend Edward Smith. Edward handled my motorcycle accident matter. I have previously worked with 3-5 lawyers. We were referred to the Edward Smith Law Offices by a lawyer friend who said they are the best, and he was right. From the first time we met with Ed and Christine, we were treated with respect and compassion. All through the process, we were kept informed of the progress of the case and what to expect next. We are very satisfied with the outcome and with the level of professionalism from everyone at the office.”

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    “When everyone else was calling my fight a lost cause, this office jumped in and fought for me like a champion. Both knowledgeable and compassionate, they negotiated intensely on my behalf. I was able to receive the best available care for my injuries and will now be able to recover from my financial losses as well. This is definitely the team you want on your side.”

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    Bike Accidents Due to Other Factors

    Apart from other motorists, other factors can also cause bike accidents. Four percent of bicycling accidents happen when a dog is chasing a bicyclist. Additionally, roadway defects also cause many serious crashes. In these cases, it is essential to move quickly. For example, in California, a bicyclist must file claims against government entities within 180 days.

    If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, reach out to an injury lawyer for your legal options.

    The following video explains how to avoid potholes and rough roads.

    Biking Accidents Due to Bicycle Defect

    Many bicycle accidents can be caused by a defective component during the bike’s assembly process. In short, the negligence of other drivers, road defects, or manufacturing problems can cause serious bicycle accidents. Hundreds of bicycles are recalled every year due to defects of the:

    • Frames
    • Suspension forks
    • Tires
    • Brakes
    • Other bike parts that fail or break

    An experienced Sacramento bicycle accident attorney can help you file a products liability claim against the manufacturer.

    Bicycle Safety and Education

    Many factors can contribute to bicycling accidents. However, bike riders may prevent them by implementing the necessary precautions for safety.

    Bicyclists can also improve their riding skills to prevent accidents. Riding your bike safely in traffic requires the same preparation as driving a car. Start by riding your bicycle in a safe location, such as a park or empty parking lot. You can also take a bike riding class. Most classes are offered through your school, local bike shop, recreation department, or bike advocacy group.

    Riding a bike on the road has certain risks involved, but knowing some common causes of bike accidents can definitely aid in avoiding them from happening.

    If you have been seriously injured in a bicycle accident, reach out to a Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer for legal advice. Most attorneys offer free consultations.

    What Should I Do if I Was Hit by a Hit-and-Run Driver?

    First, call 911 and get medical care immediately. Report the accident to the police and give as much information as possible about the car and the driver. Police can track down the responsible party if they have the license plate number. If police cannot locate the driver, you can file a claim with your insurance company through your uninsured motorist (UM) liability policy if you have one. Reach out to an experienced lawyer who can help you through this process.

    Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage Changes in 2025 and Bicycle Accidents

    Beginning January 1, 2025, California will enforce higher minimum auto insurance liability limits as part of Senate Bill 1107. The new coverage requirements increase bodily injury or death limits from $15,000 to $30,000 per person, from $30,000 to $60,000 per accident, and property damage from $5,000 to $15,000. These changes are designed to provide more comprehensive financial protection in traffic-related incidents.

    For bicyclists involved in accidents with motor vehicles, the increased insurance limits could mean better compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. With more coverage available, injured cyclists may face fewer financial challenges during recovery. However, drivers should be prepared for potential premium increases as insurers adjust to the updated policy requirements.

    Do I Still Have a Case if My Accident Was Caused by a Pothole?

    The city or municipality is responsible for maintaining and fixing road defects. If your accident was due to a pothole, you might file a claim against the government agency responsible for not fixing the pothole.

    Who Is Responsible for a Cycling Crash?

    Whoever is found negligent in the accident may be responsible. It could be the driver who hit you, the manufacturer or retailer of the bike, the bicycle repair shop, or a governmental entity that maintains the road where the bike accident happened.

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    Contact a Sacramento Bicycle Accident Attorney

    If you or a loved one has been injured in a cycling accident caused by another person’s negligence, it’s essential to seek the assistance of an experienced Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer. At our law firm, we have a team of skilled attorneys who are dedicated to helping clients recover the compensation they deserve.

    We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a cycling accident can take on a person and their family. That’s why we offer free, friendly, and compassionate advice to help guide you through the legal process and help you understand your options for financial recovery.

    Call our experienced injury attorneys in Sacramento, California, today at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

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    Additional Resources

    If you are searching for a lawyer to represent you in a car accident case in Sacramento County, look no further. Contact our knowledgeable attorneys today at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. Our legal team at AutoAccident.com accepts many different types of cases in California, including: