Bicycle Accidents
Cyclists are hurt by careless drivers and by dangerous road conditions like broken pavement. We have recovered millions for injured cyclists, including claims against the City of San Diego.
What to do after
- Get medical care and keep every record of your treatment.
- Keep your bike, helmet, and gear exactly as they are after the crash.
- Photograph the road surface, potholes, debris, or anything that caused the fall.
- Write down where it happened as precisely as possible, including the direction you were riding.
- Call us quickly, especially if a road defect was involved. Deadlines for claims against public agencies are short.
We help you get the care you need
Many of our clients do not know where to turn after an injury, or how they will pay for treatment. Our team helps connect you with experienced doctors, specialists, and physical therapists, and works with your providers so you can focus on your recovery. Clients can be seen with no upfront costs.
How California law applies
Six months for claims against a city
If a dangerous road condition caused your crash, a written claim against the city, county, or state usually must be filed within six months.
Drivers must give you three feet
California requires drivers to leave at least three feet when passing a cyclist, or to slow down and pass only when safe.
Public entities can be responsible
A government agency can be liable for a dangerous condition of public property it knew or should have known about and failed to fix.
Comparative fault
You can still recover even if the insurance company claims you share some blame.
What you may be able to recover
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring, disfigurement, or disability
- Property damage and out-of-pocket costs
Related results
Common questions
I crashed because of a pothole. Who is responsible?
Often the city, county, or state that maintains the road, and sometimes a contractor. Act quickly: the claim deadline is usually six months.
Does not wearing a helmet hurt my case?
Adults are not required to wear a helmet in California. Insurers may still raise it, but it does not bar your claim.
Should I get my bike repaired?
Not yet. Your bike is evidence. Keep it as it is until we have documented it.
This page provides general information about California law, not legal advice. Every case is different. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.