Maison Law helps people that are injured in bicycle accidents throughout Clovis.
Biking is incredibly popular here, and it’s easy to see why with great weather and ideal conditions.
Unfortunately, though, there’s always the chance that you could be injured in an accident. If you find yourself in that situation, our team can help.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more.
Clovis Bike Accident Injury Claims Process
STEP 1
Call Us For A Free Consulation
Call us 24/7 with No Obligations
STEP 2
Describe Your Accident Details
We will then discuss your legal options and decide whether to move your case forward.
STEP 3
Retain Maison Law w/ No Upfront Fees
We work on contingency. No attorney fees unless you win your case.
STEP 4
Receive Your Compensation
We will fight for you to earn the highest possible payout for your damages.
Do I Need a Lawyer after a Bicycle Crash?
If your accident results in a serious injury and a reckless driver is to blame, you should talk over your case with a skilled Clovis bicycle accident lawyer. When something like a broken bone or a head injury is involved, the cost of care rises quickly. This sends insurance companies rushing to find ways to avoid accepting responsibility.
Insurers will want to blame you for the accident, no matter who a police accident report says is to blame. They’ll also try to limit the support you receive by downplaying how badly you are hurt.
Your lawyer is your protection against this type of treatment. Your lawyer fully investigates your case and files your injury claim for you. Your lawyer also safeguards you during settlement negotiations to make sure you take home everything required to pay hospital and physical therapy bills.
A lawyer can often help you get much more in compensation than you could taking on insurers yourself. And there are no upfront costs to hire a lawyer. Your Maison Law representative isn’t paid unless you win your case. Then our fee comes out of the insurance settlement you receive.
What Our Clients Say
How Does the City of Clovis Approach Bicycle Laws?
Like any city in California, Clovis has its own approach to its Municipal Code when it comes to bicycles. This is what sets the legal framework for bike riders throughout the city. But like other cities, Clovis also follows state law as it relates to bicycles. Whether dealing with the city or the state, the purpose is the same: keeping you and other riders safe. Here’s an overview of this legal framework:
- CVC 21200 – You must follow the same traffic laws as cars unless a rule specifically doesn’t apply to bikes.
- CVC 21200.5 – Riding a bike while drunk or high is illegal.
- CVC 21201 -Your bike must have the following equipment:
- Brakes must work properly.
- Handlebars can’t be higher than your shoulders.
- The bike must be the right size so you can stop and put a foot down safely.
- A white front light is required for night riding.
- Reflectors: Red in the back, white/yellow on the sides and pedals.
- A proper seat is required. Kids under 40 pounds need a secure child seat.
- CVC 21202 – Stay as close to the right side of the road as possible–except when passing, turning left, avoiding hazards, or if the lane is too narrow.
- CVC 21203 – Never grab onto a moving car or truck for a tow.
- CVC 21204 – If riding on a freeway, you must have a proper seat. Passengers need their own seat or a child safety seat.
- CVC 21205 – You need full control of your bike at all times.
- CVC 21207.5 – Gas-powered bikes are banned from bike lanes, but e-bikes are allowed.
- CVC 21208 – If you’re riding slower than traffic, you must use the bike lane unless passing, turning left, or avoiding hazards.
- CVC 21210 – Park your bike where it won’t block pedestrians.
- CVC 21211 – Don’t stop or park in bike lanes.
- CVC 21212 – Riders under 18 must wear a helmet or risk a fine of up to $25.
- CVC 21650 – Always ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as cars.
- CVC 21760 – When riding your bike on the same roadway as a vehicle, the driver has to give you at least three feet of space when passing.
- CVC 27400 – You can wear one earbud but not both, unless they’re hearing aids.
These laws are meant to keep you safe, but accidents can happen even if you follow all the rules. This is less likely in certain areas of the city, which is the second part of Clovis’ commitment to keeping you and other riders safe–the infrastructure.
Does Clovis Have Dedicated Bicycle Lanes?
Clovis offers a strong biking infrastructure, making it easier and safer for riders to get around.
The city has several dedicated bike lanes and paths, which are categorized as follows:
Class I Shared Use Paths – These are off-street paths designed for both biriders and pedestrians. You’ll often find them in parks, near waterways, or along greenbelt areas, keeping riders away from vehicle traffic.
Old Town Trail – Class I:
Class II Bike Lanes – These are designated lanes on city streets reserved specifically for riders. They are marked with painted lines and bike symbols to clearly separate bike traffic from cars.
Nees Avenue to Peach Avenue – Class II:
How Does the Clovis Active Transportation Program Help Bicycle Riders?
Given the legal and transportation framework in place, the city has gone to pretty admirable lengths to help and protect both bike riders and pedestrians. The main program supporting these efforts is the Clovis Active Transportation Program (ATP), the most recent of which was passed in 2023. The program has clearly stated goals that reinforce its decisions and planning, built around:
- Increasing the number of people that bike and walk – First and foremost, the Clovis ATP wants more people to bike or walk instead of driving. It also wants to make these options safer and more convenient.
- Improving safety – The ATP seeks to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries for pedestrians and bike riders by adding dedicated infrastructure and traffic-calming measures, like clearly marked lanes and trails, as well as signage.
- Expanding the infrastructure – Another goal of the ATP is to build more and enhance existing bike lanes, sidewalks, and trails to create a more connected and accessible network for riders.
- Promoting equity – Clovis ATP wants to make walking and riding a good option for all communities, especially underserved areas, by promoting access to safe and reliable walking and biking options.
- Reducing traffic – Another goal of the ATP is to lower congestion and improve air quality by providing other alternatives to driving.
For all of its stated goals and existing lanes and trails, biking still comes with dangers in the city. The ATP used data from the California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) and found that, between 2015 and 2019:
- 118 were injured in bicycle accidents.
- 90 people were injured in accidents as pedestrians.
- 5 of the 10 fatal accidents in the city involved a person on a bike or walking.
Despite safety laws and programs, bicycle accidents still happen in Clovis. Even if you follow the rules and ride carefully, you can’t always control what drivers or even others on bikes do. That’s why it’s important to know how to respond if you’re in an accident.
What Steps Should You Take If You’re in a Bicycle Accident?
Even when you’re riding in one of the city’s bike lanes or trails, you might find yourself involved in an accident. What separates these accidents from others is pretty simple: they’re more likely to leave you with serious injuries.
And the more hurt you are, the more important the legal process is going to be. That’s why you need to take the following steps to protect your health and your potential claim:
- Call 911 – Move to safety if you can, then call 911 for emergency medical care. Even if you feel okay, see a doctor later. Some injuries take time to show up, and medical records can support your claim.
- Call the police – Report the accident to the Clovis Police Department (CPD). Officers will manage the scene and help you gather important details. The police will also provide you with official documentation of the accident.
- Exchange information – Get contact and insurance details from drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians involved, as well as any witnesses.
- Take pictures and videos – If it still works, use your phone to take pictures and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, damage to your bike, and anything else that might help prove what happened.
- Keep your evidence – Hold onto your damaged bike, helmet, and clothing. These can serve as proof of the accident’s impact.
- Be careful with statements – Stick to the facts when speaking to police or insurance companies. Keep from admitting fault, or saying anything that could hurt your case later.
These steps will help protect your safety and lay the groundwork for any legal claim you may need to file.
What Are Your Options For Filing an Injury Claim After a Bicycle Accident?
Most bicycle riders in Clovis don’t expect to be in an accident, especially when using bike lanes or designated paths. However, the reality is that these accidents happen, and when they do, you have the ability to file an injury claim, either through:
- Filing an insurance claim out of court
- Filing a lawsuit
Insurance is usually the fastest and simplest option. You file a claim to the at-fault driver’s insurance company, which then reviews it and decides on a settlement amount. While this process can provide a quicker payout, insurance companies often offer less than what you actually need to cover all your losses.
If the insurance company’s offer is too low, or they refuse to pay, you may need to file a lawsuit. This takes more time and effort, but because it’s handled in court by a judge or jury, you could receive a higher amount–especially if you have a strong case.
Both options aim to help you recover damages, which can include:
- Medical expenses for your emergency care, hospital bills, rehabilitation, and future treatments.
- Lost wages from missed work or impact on your future earnings.
- Bike repairs or replacement costs, along with other damaged personal property.
- Pain and suffering, covering costs for your physical pain and discomfort. You can also get separate damages for your emotional distress.
- Reduced quality of life for costs relating to a loss of your ability to enjoy daily activities or relationships.
- Wrongful death costs in fatal accidents, covering things like funeral or burial costs.
California law gives you two years from the accident date to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you lose your chance to recover damages–no matter how strong your case is.
FAQs
Two years. You’ll have to file your injury claim before two years have passed since the accident date or risk having your case rejected. You should take action sooner rather than later before important evidence disappears.
Yes. You can often secure full compensation after getting injured in a bicycle accident, even if you weren’t wearing a bicycle helmet. Drivers are still liable for the injuries they cause.
For any injury beyond scrapes and bruises, you’ll probably need a lawyer to secure full compensation for recovery bills. When an insurance company tries to blame you instead of its driver for an accident, it’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer.
Contact Maison Law After a Clovis Bicycle Accident
Any accident comes with challenges, but bicycle accidents can be especially difficult. From injuries to disruptions in your daily life, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. At Maison Law, we provide the legal support you need in Clovis. Our team will walk you through the process and help you understand your options. Contact us today for a free consultation.
