Leading Bicycle Accident Attorneys in the Inland Empire
A bicycle accident can have disastrous consequences. Speak to an attorney who can help you as you recover.
The Inland Empire is a Southern California metropolitan area that houses over 4 million residents. With many of the state’s most thriving cities, the region offers an abundance of trails and pathways for cyclists to enjoy.
Today, more and more people are choosing to ride their bike for leisure and as a means to get to work, and while many cities have bicycle lanes and specialized pathways, cyclists still run the risk of undergoing serious injuries when involved in an accident.
Following a Bike Accident, You May Be Able to Recover Compensation
If you have been injured in an accident as a cyclist, you may have the right to financial compensation from the at-fault party. Filing a claim, however, is a challenging process that may demand the legal counsel.
The personal injury attorneys at Castillo & Associates have over three decades of dedicated experience handling bicycle accident cases in Southern California.
Attorney Domingo Castillo, as a prior insurance claims adjuster and senior claims examiner, has been in the insurance claims industry for over 30 years and handled thousands of cases for insurance carriers such as Allstate, Cigna and more.
With a portfolio of successfully championing on behalf of over 10,000 accident victims, the firm is well equipped to handle the most challenging bicycle accident cases. If you have been severely injured in the aftermath of a bicycle accident, consider contacting the law firm today.
There Are a Wide-Range of Bicycle Accident Causes
Bicycle accidents can occur in a number of different scenarios. When an accident occurs, a majority of cyclists will suffer serious injuries.
Sideswipe Accidents
Every motorist is expected to provide cyclists with sufficient space when passing. Regrettably, motorists can sometimes become impatient and attempt to make a risky pass. When this occurs, the car can inadvertently sideswipe the cyclist or even run the cyclist off the road.
Left-Hand Turn Accidents
According to the California Vehicle Code §21801(a), every driver attempting to make a left-hand turn needs to first check for, and possibly yield to any oncoming vehicles, including cyclists. Left turn accidents can occur because the driver has failed to check for an oncoming cyclist, is speeding, or there is otherwise low visibility. When a cyclist is struck by an oncoming vehicle, the cyclist can suffer serious injuries.
Dooring
In many cities across Southern California, cyclists need to ride adjacent to cars parked on the street. Even when on a bicycle lane, many cyclists do not have enough space between them and the parked vehicles, which can ultimately lead to dooring accidents. These accidents are caused by motorists who have failed to check for bicyclists before opening their door. A cyclist who is traveling at average speeds can suffer serious injuries upon colliding with an unexpectedly opened door.
Accidents Caused By Deteriorated Roads or Other Roadway Hazards
Each year, there are hundreds of bicycle accidents that occur as a result of roadway conditions. Common examples include potholes or lifted sidewalks, which create uneven pathways that lead to a bicycle accident. A cyclist that has suffered an accident that was caused as a result of a neglected public road can file a claim against the government agency responsible for maintaining that road. When the accident has taken place on a private road, the cyclist could have the opportunity to file a claim against the negligent party for failing to maintain the road.
Bicycle Accidents Caused By Defective Parts
Bicycle accidents can be caused as a result of defective parts or a defective design. For instance, when a cyclist is unable to stop because of improperly working breaks, the company who manufactured or designed the breaks can be held responsible for the cyclist’s injuries. Similarly, if the accident was caused because the entire bicycle design is inherently dangerous, the company that designed the bicycle can be held accountable for the victim’s damages.
Brain Injuries Commonly Suffered By Cyclists
Sadly, bicycle enthusiasts are highly prone to brain injuries. Even when the cyclist is in use of a helmet, he or she is at risk of a traumatic brain injury when colliding with a vehicle. The following are common brain injuries typically suffered by bicyclists:
- Concussions
- Contusions
- Coup-contrecoup injury
- Open skull injuries
- Fragmented skull injury
When a cyclist has suffered a traumatic brain injury, he or she may not always recognize the extent of the injury. Nonetheless, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the following symptoms are typical when a person has suffered a traumatic brain injury:
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Difficulty remembering
- Irritability
- Weakness or numbness
After an Accident, Protect Your Rights – Speak to an Attorney
As a cyclist, if you have been injured in an accident, you need to speak to an attorney who can help you understand your legal options and be a strong advocate in your case. Bicycle accidents are often challenging cases, as many cyclists experience being blamed for the accident. A skilled attorney will investigate your case and help you defend your right to a fair compensation. Speak to a well-versed attorney today.
The personal injury attorneys at Castillo & Associates are highly skilled in bicycle accident cases. With over 30 years of dedicated and qualified experience, the firm has a strong passion for accident victim rights. Consider contacting the attorneys today for a free consultation today.
