Orange Bicycle Accident Attorneys

Orange, California, boasts stunning scenery, beautiful weather, and charming neighborhoods, making it a haven for cyclists. From the quaint streets of Old Towne Orange to the busy Chapman University campus, cyclists can enjoy miles of dedicated bike lanes and scenic routes. Unfortunately, even the most cautious riders can be involved in bicycle accidents in Orange, with potentially serious consequences.

At Wilshire Law Firm, our Orange bicycle accident attorneys understand the unique challenges faced by bicycle accident victims. 

Our dedicated lawyers have a deep understanding of California cycling laws and extensive experience in representing injured cyclists. We are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve for your physical, emotional, and financial losses.

Why Choose Wilshire Law Firm for Your Orange Bicycle Accident Claim?

When you choose the experienced personal injury lawyers at Wilshire Law Firm, you get peace of mind knowing your case is being handled by a team of personal injury lawyers who are committed to getting the best outcome possible in your case. 

Since 2007, our lawyers have helped protect the rights of accident victims in Orange and throughout Southern California. We have a proven track record of success, a compassionate and client-focused approach, and aggressive representation that gets results. Through the years, our dedicated team of lawyers has recovered over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for our clients. 

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an Orange bicycle accident, contact the bicycle accident attorneys at Wilshire Law Firm for your free and confidential consultation. If you retain our services, you won’t pay anything out of pocket until your case is settled or won. With Wilshire Law Firm on your side, you can focus on recovering from your injuries while we handle the rest.

How Common Are Bicycle Accidents in Orange?

Over 45,000 cyclists are injured in accidents with motor vehicles each year in the U.S. Last year, 857 cyclists died in bicycle accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The annual estimated cost of these accidents exceeds $5 billion. 

California has the second-highest bicycle fatality rate in the country, with 3.6 deaths per 100,000 people, according to the California Highway Patrol. Approximately 180 cyclists are killed on California roadways each year. Orange County is one of the second-most dangerous counties in the state for cyclists, with 73 fatal bicycle accidents, a rate that more than doubles the state average.  

Bicycle Laws in Orange, California

Here’s an overview of key bicycle laws in California:

General Riding Rules:

• Ride as close to the right side of the road as practicable, except for specific situations like overtaking, turning left, avoiding hazards, or sharing narrow lanes.
• Use designated bicycle lanes when available, unless passing, turning, avoiding hazards, or traveling at the same speed as traffic.
• Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops.
• Obey all traffic signals and stop signs.
• Yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic when turning.
• Bicycles are considered vehicles and have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicles on the road.

Equipment Requirements:

• Bicycles must have brakes that can stop the bike from 10 mph in 25 feet on dry, level pavement.
• A white front light and a red rear reflector or light are required for riding at night.
• Helmets are mandatory for all bicycle riders under 18 years old.

Specific Situations:

• Taking the Lane: You can legally ride in the center of the lane under certain circumstances, such as when:
  • Passing another bicyclist.
  • Preparing to turn left.
  • Avoiding hazards.
  • The lane is too narrow to share safely.
• Electric Bicycles:
  • Type 1 and 2 electric bicycles (with top assisted speeds of 20 miles per hour) are allowed wherever regular bikes are allowed, unless specifically prohibited.
  • Class 3 e-bikes (with top assisted speeds of 28 mph) can only be used on roads, not on bike paths or trails unless permitted by local authorities.
• High-Speed Vehicles and Mopeds: These vehicles are not classified as bicycles and cannot be used on bike paths or trails unless permitted by local authorities.

Do I Have Grounds to Bring a Bicycle Accident Claim?

Most personal injury claims, including bicycle accident claims, are based on negligence.

To have a successful claim, your attorney will investigate the accident to establish these four essential elements of negligence: 

1. Duty of Care: This element establishes a legal obligation for the other party to act with reasonable care towards you to avoid causing harm. In bicycle accidents, drivers and other road users generally owe a duty of care to cyclists to share the road safely and obey traffic laws.
2. Breach of Duty: Here, you must demonstrate that the other party failed to act with reasonable care, violating their duty of care. This could involve speeding, texting while driving, failing to yield the right of way, or any other negligent action that contributed to the accident.
3. Causation: You need to establish a direct link between the other party’s breach of duty and your injuries. This means proving that the other party’s negligence directly caused the accident and your subsequent injuries.
4. Damages: Finally, you must demonstrate that you suffered actual harm or loss due to the accident. This could include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other damages.

What Damages Are Available for Orange Bicycle Accident Victims?

Orange bicycle accident victims can claim various types of damages to compensate them for their losses. These damages fall into two main categories: economic and non-economic.

Economic damages: These are tangible losses with a clear financial value, such as:

• Medical expenses: This includes past and future medical bills for treatment, medication, rehabilitation, and other necessary care.
• Lost earnings: This includes income lost due to missed work or reduced earning capacity because of the accident.
• Property damage: This covers repairs or replacement of your damaged bicycle and other belongings.
• Out-of-pocket expenses: This includes transportation costs, medical supplies, and other expenses related to the accident.

Non-economic damages: These are intangible losses that can’t be easily measured in dollars, such as:

• Pain and suffering: This compensates you for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: This compensates you for the activities you can no longer participate in due to your injuries.
• Emotional distress: This covers the psychological impact of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
• Scarring and disfigurement: This compensates you for the physical and emotional impact of visible scars resulting from the accident.
• Loss of consortium: This compensates your spouse or partner for the loss of intimacy and companionship due to your injuries.

The specific damages available in your case will depend on the facts and circumstances of your accident, the severity of your injuries, and the applicable laws in California. It’s crucial to consult with an experienced Orange bicycle accident attorney to discuss your potential claim and understand the types of damages you may be entitled to.

Who May be Held Liable in a Bike Accident?

In a bike accident, several parties can potentially be held liable for your injuries and damages, depending on the specific circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of potential parties:

Motor Vehicle Drivers

Drivers who collide with cyclists through negligence, recklessness, or failure to obey traffic laws can be held liable. This includes drivers who:

• Fail to yield the right of way to cyclists.
• Speed or drive under the influence.
• Disobey traffic signals or stop signs.
• Text or use their phones while driving.
• Open their car doors into oncoming bicycle traffic.

Government Entities

Government entities responsible for maintaining roads and bike paths can be held liable if their negligence contributed to the accident. This includes:

• Failure to repair dangerous road conditions, like potholes or inadequate signage.
• Lack of proper lighting on bike paths.
• Improper design of intersections or bike lanes.

Manufacturers of Defective Products

If a defective bicycle or bicycle component caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held liable. This includes:

• Faulty brakes or handlebars.
• Defective tires or wheels.
• Improperly designed or assembled bicycles.

Other Cyclists

If another cyclist’s negligence contributed to the accident, they may be held partially liable. This includes:

• Not following traffic laws or riding recklessly.
• Not using proper safety equipment.
• Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Third-Party Property Owners

In some cases, property owners may be held liable if their property contributed to the accident. This includes:

• Obstacles on sidewalks or parking lots that cause cyclists to swerve or fall.
• Unsecured pets that attack cyclists.

How Can a Lawyer with Wilshire Law Firm Help with My Bicycle Accident Case?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Orange, choosing the right legal representation is crucial. There are several reasons why Wilshire Law Firm should be your top choice:

Experience 

• Experienced bicycle accident attorneys: Our firm’s lawyers have extensive experience handling a variety of personal injury claims, including bicycle accident cases. We understand the specific challenges and complexities involved.
• Proven track record of success: Wilshire Law Firm boasts a successful track record of obtaining significant settlements and verdicts for accident victims.
• Knowledge of California bicycle laws: Our team is well-versed in California’s bicycle laws and how they apply to your case.

Client-Focused Approach

• Compassionate and personalized service: You’ll receive personalized attention and support throughout the legal process, feeling understood and valued.
• Dedicated team of professionals: You’ll have access to a team of experienced lawyers, legal assistants, and investigators who will work tirelessly on your case.
• Open communication: Our firm prioritizes clear and consistent communication, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Aggressive Representation

• Thorough investigation: Wilshire Law Firm will conduct a thorough investigation into your accident, gathering evidence and identifying all liable parties.
• Strong negotiation skills: Our firm’s lawyers are skilled negotiators. We will fight hard to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
• Willingness to go to trial: If a fair settlement offer isn’t reached, our lawyers are prepared to take your case to trial to fight for your rights.

Positive Reviews and Testimonials

Wilshire Law Firm has earned a reputation for excellence, with numerous positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients. This demonstrates our commitment to providing exceptional service and achieving successful outcomes for their clients.

No Upfront Costs

The personal injury lawyers at Wilshire Law Firm offer free case consultations and we operate on a contingency-fee basis. That means you won’t pay any out-of-pocket costs until your case is settled or won.

Contact an Orange Bicycle Accident Attorney at Wilshire Law Firm Today

Whether you were injured cycling along the Santa Ana River Trail, navigating the streets of Circle City, or exploring the trails of Irvine Regional Park, you need an Orange bicycle accident attorney who will look out for your interests and protect your rights. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We are here to guide you through the legal process and help you get your life back in order.

Contact us today at (714) 386-1747 or fill out our online contact form for your free consultation and let our experienced Orange bicycle accident lawyers fight for the compensation you deserve. Reach out to an Orange personal injury lawyer.

Our Orange Office Location

Wilshire Law Firm
Orange
1940 W. Orangewood #110 Office 7
Orange, CA 92868
Tel: (714) 386-1747

Open Mon – Sun
Available 24 Hours
by Appointment Only