Today there are more Californians biking than ever before. Some bike to work, others bike to school, and some bike for fun. Whether doing so out of necessity or four exercise there are many advantages to this increase in bike riding but there are some downsides too. For example: Bike accidents. Read on to find out what to do if you are involved in a bike accident. Then reach out to Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
You may be shocked at the statistics
Would you be surprised to learn that nearly 50,000 people were injured in bike accidents in 2013? That is the truth, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. What is worse is the fact that there were nearly 750 bike accident deaths in the same year. Note that this only includes accidents between bikes and vehicles. What that happens who is at fault?
Finding fault may not be as simple as you think
The truth is that every case is different. In most instances, the person on the bike is going to have far worse injuries due to the fact that they do not have as much protection as a person riding in a car or truck. That said, who has the worst injuries is not an indication of who is at fault.
The law requires that bicyclists, trucks, cars, and SUVs must all share the road. A bike rider needs to be ready with the right gear and a maintained bike. They should stick to routes they know and that are well-slit. They should also be alert and drive in accordance with the rules. This means they should never weave in and out of lanes and they should yield the same way a car would.
It is not uncommon for an investigation to show that the bike rider was at fault. They may not have followed the traffic rules, they may not have yielded the right of way, looked before going into the street, or obeyed traffic lights. On the other hand, the driver may be at fault for not sharing the road, not being aware, and hitting the bike rider when turning right. It will be up to the police first to compile the facts about the accident. Then your personal injury attorney will fight to ensure the truth is told.
Do you need legal help after a bike accident?
Bike accidents can change a life. They can result in significant injuries, damage to property, lost time at work, and much more. If a driver was responsible for an accident then they should be held accountable. If you are concerned that this is not being done then you can contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 right away. We are here to offer a free legal consultation. Once everyone has an idea of what your case entails, we may take your case on a contingency basis. Call today to find out.
