Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers | November 20, 2024 | Car Accidents
Accidents involving cars and bicyclists are unfortunately common in San Diego. Hitting someone on a bike with your car can be a stressful experience, emotionally and legally. If you find yourself in this situation, you should be aware of your legal options, responsibilities, and potential liabilities. Here are some things to do:
Stop Immediately and Follow the Law
California law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop at the scene. This includes accidents involving bicyclists. Failing to stop could result in serious legal consequences, including criminal charges for a hit-and-run.
Be sure to:
- Move your vehicle to a safe location without blocking traffic
- Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.
- Provide your name and insurance details to the bicyclist
- File a police report
Following these steps keeps you in compliance with the law and helps protect your legal rights.
Take Steps to Protect Yourself Legally
You should take steps to protect yourself from potential liability claims.
Consider doing the following:
- Do not admit fault: Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt after an accident. You can express concern for the bicyclist and call 911 but do not admit fault.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident, damage to your car and the bicycle, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who can corroborate your story.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company. Provide accurate and detailed information. Failing to report the accident could result in denied coverage.
- Consult an attorney: Consult with a San Diego bicycle accident lawyer. They can help if liability is contested or the bicyclist intends to file a lawsuit for damages. A lawyer can help evaluate the case, communicate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in negotiations or court proceedings.
Protect yourself after a bicycle accident by speaking with an experienced attorney.
Understand the Potential Insurance Process
Your auto insurance will typically cover damages caused by hitting a bike rider with your car.
These sorts of claims fall under your liability coverage and can include:
- Medical expenses for the bicyclist’s injuries, such as hospital bills, rehabilitation, and medications
- Property damage expenses for repairing or replacing the bicyclist’s bike and personal property
- Pain and suffering for emotional distress or diminished quality of life
The bicyclist may also have their own insurance policies, such as health insurance, that could contribute to covering their damages.
Speak With a San Diego Bicycle Lawyer About Potential Legal Consequences
Accidents involving bicyclists are known to cause serious injuries. If the bicyclist’s injuries are severe or you have insufficient insurance coverage, you could face liability for the remaining damages.
This could include:
- Civil liability: The bicyclist may file a personal injury lawsuit against you seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. You may be required to pay damages beyond your insurance limits if found at fault.
- Criminal charges: You could face criminal charges, including fines, license suspension, or even jail time if reckless or drunk driving caused the accident.
- Insurance premium increases: Your insurance premiums will likely increase following an at-fault accident, especially if significant injuries or damages occur.
A San Diego car accident lawyer can advise you of potential legal consequences after hitting a cyclist with your car.
Minimize Liability With Comparative Negligence
Liability for a bicycle accident is not always obvious. Under California’s comparative negligence law, you and the bicyclist could share responsibility for the accident.
A bicyclist might bear partial liability if they:
- Ignore a stop sign
- Run a red light
- Ride on the wrong side of the road
- Fail to obey a traffic sign
- Ride while intoxicated
Your liability will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the bicyclist under the theory of comparative negligence.
Involved In a Bicycle Accident? Speak With a San Diego Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Hitting a bicyclist with your car is a serious situation. You need to protect yourself legally and financially. Staying at the scene and taking other steps to protect yourself can help in the aftermath. If you or a loved one is involved in such an incident, speak with an experienced San Diego bicycle accident lawyer to understand your rights.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyers of Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers in San Diego, CA, for Help Today
For more information, contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today.
We proudly serve San Diego County and its surrounding areas:
Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
835 5th Avenue #302, San Diego, CA 92101
(858) 551-2090
Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers – La Jolla Office
4660 La Jolla Village Dr. San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 585-9031