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Bicycle Accidents

Bicyclists in California have every right to share the road, but when drivers fail to respect that, serious injuries can occur. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident, Chance the Lawyer is here to help you pursue justice and full compensation.

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bicycle crash can take. Our experienced attorneys know how to build strong cases, negotiate with insurers, and take legal action when necessary. We’re not just here to represent you, we’re here to fight for you.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California

California has made strides toward becoming a bike-friendly state, but careless or negligent drivers still put cyclists at risk every day. Some of the most common causes we see include:

  • Distracted driving (texting, phone use)

  • Drivers failing to yield or signal

  • Dooring (drivers opening car doors into cyclists)

  • Unsafe lane changes or turns

  • Speeding or reckless driving

  • Driving under the influence

  • Poor road conditions or lack of bike lanes

We thoroughly investigate every case to determine exactly what caused the accident and who is legally responsible.

Who Is Liable in a Bicycle Accident?

Liability in a bicycle accident depends on the unique facts of each case. California law allows injured cyclists to pursue compensation from any party whose negligence contributed to the crash. With the Law Offices of Chance Pardon we conduct thorough investigations to determine liability, which may include:

  • Negligent Drivers: The most common cause. A driver may be liable for speeding, failing to yield, making unsafe turns, opening doors into bike lanes, or driving under the influence.

  • Commercial Vehicle Operators: If the at-fault driver was working at the time of the crash, their employer or a delivery/rideshare company may also share liability.

  • Government Entities: If poor road conditions, lack of bike lane maintenance, or dangerous intersections contributed to the accident, the city or county may be held responsible.

  • Product Manufacturers: In some cases, a defective bicycle part (like brakes or tires) may have caused or worsened the crash, opening the door for a product liability claim.

California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means even if you were partially at fault (e.g., riding at night without lights), you can still recover damages — your compensation may just be reduced by your percentage of fault.

We’ll gather evidence, work with accident reconstruction experts, and build a strong case that holds the right parties accountable.

What Compensation Can I Recover?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation)

  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity

  • Pain and suffering

  • Property damage (bicycle, gear, etc.)

  • Emotional trauma and reduced quality of life

We won’t let insurance companies lowball your claim. Our team is skilled at negotiating fair settlements and taking cases to trial when necessary.

Why Choose the Law Offices Of Chance Pardon?

At the Law Offices of Chance Pardon, we bring trusted, local experience and a proven track record to every bicycle accident case. Based in Seal Beach, we know the streets, traffic patterns, and legal landscape of California. Giving you a clear advantage from the start.

Why Clients Trust Us:
Local Insight – We understand the unique risks cyclists face in Long Beach and how to build strong, location-specific cases.

Bicycle Injury Experience – From fractures to catastrophic injuries, we know how to handle tough claims and push back against insurance delays and denials.

Personalized Service – You’ll work directly with a dedicated attorney—no call centers or case managers.

No Fees Unless We Win – We operate on a contingency fee basis meaning we don’t get paid unless we win.

Clear, Compassionate Communication – We guide you through every step with transparency and care.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in California?

Protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation by following these steps:

Call 911 – Report the accident and request police and medical assistance. A police report can be a critical piece of evidence.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not appear right away.

Document the Scene – Take clear photos of the accident scene, your bicycle, any visible injuries, and the vehicle(s) involved.

Exchange Information – Get the driver’s name, contact details, license plate number, and insurance information. Also collect contact info from any witnesses.

Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters – Do not provide a recorded statement or accept any settlement before consulting an attorney.

Call Chance the Lawyer – Contact us at (949) 229-1486-6914 for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through your next steps and protect your legal rights.

What Are My Rights After a Bicycle Accident in California?

As a bicyclist in California, you have important rights that protect you after an accident:

  • Equal Rights to the Road: Under California Vehicle Code § 21200, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Motorists must yield, share the road, and exercise caution when passing or turning near cyclists.

  • Right to Compensation: If a driver, property owner, or public agency’s negligence caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and bike repairs or replacement.

  • Right to Hold Negligent Parties Accountable: Whether the crash involved a distracted driver, a defective bike part, or a poorly maintained road, you have the legal right to file a claim or lawsuit against those responsible.

  • Right to File a Claim—Even if You’re Partially at Fault: Thanks to California’s comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages even if you were partially responsible for the crash.

  • Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to consult with a personal injury attorney before speaking with insurance companies or accepting a settlement.

At the Law Offices of Chance Pardon, we protect those rights and fight to maximize your recovery.

Still not Sure?

The scope of personal injury law is broad, and every case is
unique. If you don’t see your specific type of accident or injury
mentioned here, we still encourage you to reach out. Our
experienced Long Beach personal injury attorneys offers free
consultations and will evaluate your case to determine the best course of action for your recovery.

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