Sacramento Bicycle Accident Attorneys

We Represent Injured Bicyclists in Sacramento County

Bicycles are not only fun, they are also a great form of exercise and cost-effective mode of transportation. However, because bicyclists have very little protection, they may suffer serious injuries in an accident even when wearing a helmet, such as broken bones, brain injuries, scars and disfigurement, neck and back injuries, or even death.

At Piering Law Firm, our Sacramento bicycle accident lawyers are aggressive advocates for bicyclists who have been injured or killed due to driver negligence, product defects, and dangerous roads. Our lawyers, Robert Allen Piering, John Beals, and Sukhtej Atwal, have more than 50 years of combined legal experience.

As avid bicyclists, we are intimately familiar with the issues affecting bikers. We will be there for you when it matters most. Our attorneys handle bike accident claims on a contingent fee basis, which means you only pay us when we successfully resolve your case. We are committed to valuing your case accurately and advocating vigorously to secure the compensation you deserve for current and future needs.

Learn more about how we can help you by contacting our Sacramento bicycle accident attorneys by calling (916) 476-2399 today!

Bicycle Accident Statistics

Bicycle crashes are a devastating yet surprisingly common occurrence in the United States.

According to data from the United States Department of Transportation:

• A total of 1,155 bicyclists were killed in traffic collisions in the United States in 2023 alone.
• Bicyclist deaths have increased by 15% since 1975. 
• 62% of bicyclists killed in 2023 were not wearing helmets.
• 81% of bicycle deaths occurred in urban areas in 2023.
• 35% of bicyclist deaths in 2023 occurred at intersections.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

• Dangerous road conditions: Dangerous road conditions, such as potholes, debris, and maintenance problems and cause cycling accidents. 
• Careless or reckless motorists: Drivers who are not paying attention or are driving unsafely may cause bicycle accidents by opening car doors in a bicyclist's path, turning into bicyclists at intersections, or not taking proper safety precautions. 
• Defective products: Defective products, such as bike frames and handlebars, also lead to a number of serious accidents.

Regardless of who caused your injury or loved one's death, our attorneys will work hard to help you get the compensation you need for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We will take the time to understand how your injuries have affected your quality of life and pursue compensation that reflects that loss. We will explore all potential avenues of recovery, from your auto insurance and uninsured motorist/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to the driver's auto insurance, to ensure you get maximum compensation.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in California

Whether you are an avid cyclist or new to the scene, you probably already know what to do to increase your safety and prevent a traffic accident. However, you can only control what you do. The other half of the equation is the motorist, who can hit you despite all the safety precautions you have taken.

Steps to take after a cycling accident include:

1. Call the police: Report the accident right away so an official report is created, which can serve as important evidence for your claim.
2. Do not admit fault: Avoid apologizing or making statements that could be interpreted as accepting responsibility, even if you think you may be partially at fault.
3. Collect information: Exchange names, contact details, license plate numbers, and insurance information with the other driver, and note the vehicle’s make, model, and color.
4. Document the scene: Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and any injuries, and speak with witnesses to gather additional details.
5. Get medical attention: Seek medical care as soon as possible, even if injuries are not immediately apparent, to protect your health and document your condition for your claim.

Injured cyclists can receive care at medical centers such as Dignity Health - Mercy General Hospital, UC Davis Medical Center, or other facilities. Once you've received care, it is important to reach out to a bicycle accident lawyer in Sacramento for legal guidance. We can support you in your bicycle accident claim.

Choose Our Bicycle Accident Attorney in Sacramento

To schedule a free consultation — on the weekend or in your home, when necessary — with one of our experienced Sacramento bicycle accident attorneys, call (916) 476-2399 or contact us online. Se habla español.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Prove Liability in a Bicycle Accident?

Proving liability in a bicycle accident involves demonstrating negligence on the part of another party. This typically means showing that the driver owed a duty of care to you and that their breach of this duty directly caused your injuries. Evidence might include police reports, eyewitness testimonies, traffic camera footage, and reconstructions of the accident. 

What Should I Do If the Driver Leaves the Scene?

In the unfortunate event that the driver leaves the scene of the accident, it is crucial to stay calm and gather as much information as possible. Note any details about the vehicle, such as make, model, color, and any portion of the license plate. Immediately call the police to report the hit-and-run; they can help find the perpetrator. Contacting an attorney quickly will also enable you to understand your rights and potential compensation routes, such as filing a bicycle accident claim through your uninsured motorist policy.

Can I Still Recover Damages If I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes, California operates under a comparative negligence system, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced proportionately by the percentage of your fault. For instance, if it is determined that you were 20% responsible, you would still be eligible to recover 80% of the total damages.