Bicycling is one of the most popular forms of transportation and recreation in California. Whether it’s for commuting to work, enjoying the great outdoors, or simply getting around town, cyclists are an integral part of California’s roadways. To ensure their safety, California has established bike lanes—designated spaces on the road meant to separate cyclists from motor vehicles.
However, despite these safety measures, bicycle lane accidents still happen, and cyclists can be seriously injured. Whether the accident involves a driver improperly entering a bike lane, "dooring" incidents, or distracted driving, understanding your rights as a cyclist and knowing how to seek legal redress after an accident is essential.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle lane accident in California, it’s important to know how the law protects you and what steps you should take to get the compensation you deserve. At The Lewis Farmer Law Group, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping injured cyclists recover from their accidents and get back on their feet.
California Bicycle Lane Laws: Key Points to Know
California law provides specific protections for cyclists, especially when they are riding in designated bike lanes. Here are some key laws that govern bicycle lane safety:
1. Bicyclists Must Use Bike Lanes When Available (Vehicle Code § 21208)
California Vehicle Code Section 21208 mandates that cyclists must ride in a bike lane if one is provided and operational. Cyclists are required to stay within the bike lane unless it is unsafe to do so, or they are passing other cyclists or preparing to make a left turn.
2. Motorists Cannot Drive in Bike Lanes (Vehicle Code § 21209)
Under CVC § 21209, motor vehicles are prohibited from driving or parking in designated bike lanes except when they are entering or exiting a parking lot, driveway, or making a turn at an intersection. When drivers disregard this rule and drive or park in a bike lane, they put cyclists at risk of serious accidents.
3. Right of Way for Cyclists in Bike Lanes (Vehicle Code § 21950)
CVC § 21950 requires that drivers yield the right-of-way to cyclists in bike lanes when turning at an intersection. This is particularly important when drivers are turning into or out of driveways, alleys, or parking areas where a bike lane is present.
4. Safety and Signage Regulations
California requires that bike lanes be clearly marked with appropriate signs and lane markings. Poor signage, blocked lanes, or construction zones that interfere with bike lanes can lead to accidents.
Common Causes of Bicycle Lane Accidents
Bicycle lane accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Below are some of the most common causes:
1. Driver Failure to Yield
One of the most common causes of bicycle lane accidents is drivers failing to yield to cyclists when turning at intersections. If a driver is making a right or left turn across a bike lane, they must check for cyclists and yield the right-of-way. Failure to do so can result in a collision.
2. "Dooring" Accidents
Dooring occurs when a driver or passenger opens their car door into the path of a cyclist who is riding in the bike lane. This often happens when a parked car is not being properly monitored. Dooring accidents are extremely dangerous and can cause cyclists to be thrown into traffic or suffer serious injuries.
3. Distracted Driving
Drivers who are distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other in-car distractions may fail to notice cyclists in the bike lane, leading to accidents. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents in California, and cyclists are particularly vulnerable.
4. Unsafe Lane Changes
When a driver changes lanes without checking for cyclists, particularly in areas where the bike lane is adjacent to the traffic lane, accidents can occur. These accidents are often caused by a driver’s failure to check mirrors or blind spots.
5. Poor Road Conditions or Obstructions
Sometimes, bike lane accidents occur due to poorly designed roads, obstructed lanes, or poorly maintained bike lanes. This can include construction zones, debris in the bike lane, or poorly marked lanes that cause confusion and unsafe riding conditions.
6. Cyclist Error
While drivers are often at fault, cyclists can also contribute to accidents. For instance, cyclists who ride outside the designated bike lane, fail to signal, or disregard traffic signs can increase the risk of accidents. However, even if a cyclist is partially at fault, California’s comparative negligence laws allow them to recover compensation.
Determining Fault in Bicycle Lane Accidents
In California, fault is determined based on the principles of negligence and comparative negligence. If a motorist fails to follow the law and causes an accident, they can be held liable for the injuries and damages resulting from the crash.
Motorist Fault: If the driver enters the bike lane without yielding, opens a car door into the bike lane, or engages in any other negligent or reckless behavior (e.g., distracted driving or driving under the influence), they can be found at fault for the accident.
Cyclist Fault: If a cyclist violates traffic laws, such as riding outside the bike lane or failing to stop at a red light, they may be partially or fully at fault. However, in California, comparative negligence means that cyclists may still be entitled to compensation even if they share some degree of fault.
Shared Fault: In many cases, both the motorist and the cyclist may share fault for the accident. For example, if the cyclist was not in the bike lane or failed to signal, and the driver failed to yield while turning, both parties may bear responsibility.
What to Do After a Bicycle Lane Accident
If you are involved in a bicycle lane accident in California, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation:
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
Report the Accident: Call the police and file a report. This report will be an official record of the accident, which can be helpful if you decide to pursue a claim.
Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, any damage to your bike, and the positions of vehicles involved. Gather contact information from witnesses, if possible.
Get Legal Help: Bicycle lane accidents can be complex. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your claim, or there may be disputes about who is at fault. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process.
Call The Lewis Farmer Law Group for Legal Help
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle lane accident in California, The Lewis Farmer Law Group is here to help. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can take, and our experienced attorneys are committed to getting you the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. Call 818-864-6093, visit our website at www.thelewisfarmerlawgroup.com, or fill out our online form at https://bit.ly/TheLewisFarmerLawGroup_InquiryForm to get started.
Let The Lewis Farmer Law Group fight for your rights and help you recover from your bicycle lane accident.