Beaumont Bicycle Accident Attorney

When a driver’s negligence causes a collision, injured cyclists may have the right to pursue compensation under California law. Arrange a free consultation to learn your legal options by contacting Hanson & Mouri online or by calling (951) 688-0006.

Why Choose Us for Your Bicycle Accident Claim

Our firm focuses on building well-supported claims that reflect the full impact the accident has had on the injured cyclist.

We provide clients with straightforward guidance so they understand their legal options and what to expect during the claim process.

Cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no legal fees unless compensation is recovered.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Beaumont

Many bicycle accidents happen because drivers fail to pay attention to cyclists or disregard traffic laws. Common causes include:

Distracted driving, including texting or using navigation systems.

Drivers failing to yield while turning at intersections.

Unsafe lane changes or passing too closely to cyclists.

Opening car doors into the path of a bicycle.

Speeding in residential or commercial areas.

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Because bicyclists have little physical protection, even a low-speed collision can cause significant injuries.

California Bicycle Accident Laws

Cyclist Rights

California law recognizes bicyclists as lawful users of public roads. Under California Vehicle Code §21200, “a person riding a bicycle… has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle.” This law is important in bicycle accident cases because it confirms that cyclists have the same right to use the roadway as motorists. When drivers fail to respect those rights and cause a collision, that conduct may be used as evidence of negligence.

Duty of Drivers

California requires drivers to provide bicyclists with sufficient passing distance. Under California Vehicle Code §21760, motorists must leave “a distance of not less than three feet” when passing a bicycle traveling in the same direction. If a driver passes too closely and causes an accident, the violation can help establish liability in a personal injury claim.

Shared Fault

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule under California Civil Code §1714, which states that “everyone is responsible… for an injury occasioned to another by his or her want of ordinary care.” This means an injured cyclist may still recover compensation even if they share some responsibility for the accident. However, the total recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the injured person.

Statute of Limitations

California law also sets deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Under California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1, “an action for… injury… caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another” generally must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to pursue a claim within that time you will likely lose your right to compensation.

Why You Need to Hire a Beaumont Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Insurance companies often attempt to dispute bicycle accident claims by arguing that the cyclist contributed to the crash or failed to follow traffic laws. Handling these issues on your own can be difficult while recovering from injuries. When you work with a Beaumont Bicycle Accident Attorney, they can help you by:

Reviewing accident reports, witness statements, and available evidence to establish liability.

Handling communication and negotiations with insurance companies.

Evaluating medical records and financial losses to determine the value of your claim.

Addressing disputes related to comparative negligence or fault.

Guiding you through each stage of the legal process.

A lawyer can help ensure that insurance companies evaluate the claim based on the actual evidence and full extent of your losses.

Contact a Beaumont Bicycle Accident Attorney

Arrange a free consultation today by contacting Hanson & Mouri online or by calling (951) 688-0006.