What You Need To Know About Your Rights As A Cyclist In California?
Cyclists are one of the most vulnerable to traffic accidents. Even with all the safety precautions, accidents can still lead to many physical injuries, resulting in financial losses and emotional distress.
In some cases, cyclists are made to believe they're a nuisance and that accidents are their fault alone. This is why many cyclists choose not to file claims with a Los Angeles Bicycle Attorney.
That said, let's talk about 3 of the most common misconceptions about California bicycle laws and how you can overcome them.
3 Misconceptions About California Bicycle Laws
Whether or not you've been in a bicycle accident in California lately, you still need to know the most crucial laws that are often misconceived. Knowing about these laws could affect your next move should you file claims with a bike accident lawyer in Los Angeles in the future:
Misconception #1: It Is Always The Cyclist's Fault
There is an element of discrimination against bicyclists. Most people believe that cyclists are responsible for getting out of everyone's way and that cars have priority in traffic.
This is not true. When deciding fault in bicycle accidents, your Los Angeles Bicycle Attorney will assess the facts and look for the negligent party. After all, if another driver fails to follow traffic rules and injures you in the process, then they can be considered the one at fault.
So, if another car, vehicle, or person was negligent in your accident, you shouldn't worry about filing claims against them. Plus, our prescreened bike accident lawyers in Los Angeles are experienced in handling these cases, so they'll know how to manage and negotiate with other parties and their insurance companies.
Misconception #2: Being Partially At Fault Means You Can't File Personal Injury Claims For Bicycle Accidents In California
Just because you were partially at fault in the accident doesn't mean you threw away the right to seek compensation for your injuries. In California personal injury law, the shared fault is decided in percentages.
For example, if you were 20% responsible for an accident, the other party still needs to pay you the remaining 80% of the total damages incurred.
Doing so requires some calculations and a solid case to defend your interests. A Los Angeles Bicycle Attorney will be experienced in this regard and can help you get the most out of your Personal Injury Claim.
Misconception #3: You Can't Negotiate With Insurance Adjusters
Again, since cyclists are often blamed for all accidents, they're often discouraged from negotiating higher compensation from insurance adjusters. However, most insurance companies are prejudiced against cyclists and motorists and will deliberately refuse to give the right compensation by minimizing injuries and using underhanded tactics.
A Los Angeles Bicycle Attorney knows that insurance adjusters could be prejudiced and underhanded. However, they'll also know how to deal with them from experience. If you ever meet an insurance adjuster, have your California bicycle accident attorney negotiate in your place instead of falling for their schemes.
California Personal Injury: A Definition
Any sort of physical, emotional, or financial injury sustained by a person due to a negligent accident is legally described as personal injury. This means that you are regarded as "injured" not only because of broken bones and wounds but also because of medical bills, missed work, lost income, and emotional suffering.
What Is The Purpose Of A California Personal Injury Claim?
If you or a family member has been hurt due to someone else's negligence, you may be able to file a personal injury claim in California under personal injury compensation rules. Accident victims are compensated, and negligent parties are held liable under these personal injury laws.
The amount of money you receive is influenced by several factors, including the injuries you sustain, property damage, medical expenditures, and emotional distress.
Because some of these damages are non-economic in nature, determining how much a liable party should pay for them requires proof and sound reasoning. For example, you and your California bicycle accident attorney must present a solid and convincing case to demonstrate emotional distress damages.
Having a Los Angeles Bicycle Attorney on your side while filing a claim for bicycle accidents in California is the best route to take. A bike accident lawyer in Los Angeles has legal experience, so they know how to evaluate your claims, conduct investigations, gather evidence, and file the appropriate paperwork.
Find Top-Rated Personal Injury Attorneys In Los Angeles Near Me
1000Attorneys.com is a California Bar Association Certified Lawyer Referral Service that can refer you to a prescreened California Attorney For Personal Injury best fit to handle your claims. You can contact us through our 24/7 Live Chat or complete our inquiry submission form for a free initial case review.
