The Support You Need. The Settlement You Deserve.
Maison Law helps people in Hollister when they’re injured in an accident.
Riding a bicycle around Hollister is a great way to enjoy the scenery and the nice weather.
But just like anywhere else, accidents can happen–especially in busy or less bike-friendly areas. That’s why it’s important to understand local bike laws and how you can stay safe on the road.
If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, our firm is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
While biking in Hollister can be enjoyable and healthy, it also comes with some risks, none more upsetting than accidents and injuries. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a bike accident, it’s important to understand your rights. You don’t have to hire a lawyer, but having one can take a lot of stress off your plate and help you get financial support for your injuries by:
- Helping you understand your rights and options
- Looking into the accident to find out who’s responsible
- Collecting evidence and important details
- Talking to any witnesses
- Working with insurance companies to get a fair settlement
- Going to court for you if needed
Handling a bike accident claim on your own can be extremely challenging. We’re here to make the process easier and help you get the financial support you need to heal and move forward.
What Are Some of the Laws Around Bicycling in Hollister?
The City of Hollister, like other cities in California, is charged with making sure that there’s a legal framework in place regarding bicycles and riders. Not surprisingly, the city’s Municipal Code has a number of laws in place that govern biking and outlines what everyone is supposed to do. Here’s a quick look at some of these laws:
- 12.32.020 – You can only ride your bike on roads or paths in city parks that are meant for bikes.
- You’re allowed to walk your bike through areas used by pedestrians.
- Don’t park or leave your bike on walkways or roads in city parks.
- Don’t ride in a way that could put other cyclists, pedestrians, or drivers in danger.
- 17.18.030 – For new developments, building additions, or changes in use that require more parking, a circulation plan must be submitted. When it comes to bicycles, the plan must include:
- Safe, smooth paved surfaces that are easy and comfortable to ride on and meet ADA standards.
- Any bike-related plans or guidelines from Hollister’s approved Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan must be followed.
- Grates and stormwater drains on the property must be safe for bikes to ride over—no gaps that could catch wheels.
- Signs must be placed high enough (at least seven feet from the ground) so cyclists can pass under them safely.
- The layout should support multi-modal access, including safe connections for bicycles alongside pedestrians and vehicles.
State Laws
There’s another facet to bicycle laws in Hollister, which is governed by the state and enforced locally. These laws include:
- CVC 21200 – Bike riders have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers.
- CVC 21200.5 – It’s illegal to ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Bike Equipment (CVC 21202 & 21204) – Your bike must have:
- Working brakes.
- Handlebars below shoulder height.
- Be properly sized so you can stop and put a foot down.
- A white light/headlight for night riding.
- Red rear reflector, and white/yellow reflectors on the sides and pedals.
- A fixed seat and proper child seat for kids under 40 lbs.
- CVC 21202 – Ride as far right as practical, unless passing, turning, avoiding hazards, or if the lane is too narrow.
- CVC 21203 – Don’t hold onto moving vehicles.
- CVC 21204 – No passengers unless they have their own seat or child safety seat.
- CVC 21205 – Keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.
- CVC 21207.5 – E-bikes can use bike lanes, but motorized bikes can’t.
- CVC 21208 – Use bike lanes when slower than traffic, unless passing, turning, or avoiding hazards.
- CVC 21210 – Don’t park bikes where they block pedestrians.
- CVC 21211 – Don’t stop or park on bike paths or lanes.
- CVC 21212 – Riders under 18 must wear a helmet (fine up to $25).
- CVC 21650 – Ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic.
- CVC 23330 – No bikes on toll bridges unless signs allow it.
- CVC 27400 – Don’t wear headphones or earplugs in both ears unless they’re hearing aids.
These rules are in place to help keep riders safe, but even following the law can’t prevent all accidents. Always stay alert and know where biking is allowed in Hollister to avoid trouble.
Where are Hollister’s Bike Lanes and Routes?
With that in mind, the city has a developed a solid network of lanes and routes that suit every rider. Here’s a look at a few of the more popular ones throughout the city:
As these pictures show, there’s certain differences when it comes to the kind of lane or route you might find yourself in. Typically, both the city and state government have three categories of bike lanes and routes:
- Class I Shared Use Paths – These are separate from the road, giving cyclists and pedestrians a safe space away from cars. You’ll often find them near parks or scenic areas.
- Class II Bike Lanes – These marked lanes on city streets are just for cyclists, helping them ride safely alongside traffic.
- Class III Bike Routes – These roads are shared by both cyclists and cars, usually in quieter residential areas with signs and markings to guide riders.
These bike lanes and paths are just one way Hollister is working to make its streets safer for cyclists. Another key part is the city’s biking laws and regulations, which help protect riders on the road.
What is the Legal Process After a Bicycle Accident?
Even with laws in place to protect you, accidents can (and often do) happen. This means one thing: injuries. Injuries from the accident can make daily life more difficult and lead to heavy financial costs–like medical bills and lost income from missing work.
That’s where your legal right to file a claim for damages comes in. There are two main ways to do this:
- File an insurance claim – This is usually faster because it avoids going to court, but insurance companies often offer less than what your case is really worth.
- File a lawsuit – This option takes longer, but a court decides the value of your claim, which can lead to a more fair outcome.
No matter which route you choose, the goal is the same: to recover financial support for your losses, which are called “damages” and typically include:
- Medical expenses and ongoing care needs
- Lost income or loss of earning potential if you can’t work anymore
- Repair/replacement costs for your bike and other damaged property
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- Wrongful death expenses in fatal accidents
In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file your claim. So, it’s in your best interest to act quickly, since it makes it easier to gather the evidence and information you’re going to need. That said, there’s another important part of this process: figuring out who pays for your damages.
Who Pays For Your Damages After a Bicycle Accident?
In some ways, figuring out who pays for your damages after a bike accident is the most important piece of information you can get. After all, you can’t file a claim without first knowing who you’ll be filing against. In legal terms, this is called “liability,” and it basically means putting legal responsibility on someone or some group of people for causing the accident and your injuries–which also puts legal responsibility on them for paying for your damages.
To do this, you need to show negligence. Negligence means someone:
- Didn’t follow safety rules, and
- Their actions (or inaction) led to the accident and your injuries.
Sometimes, determining fault is straightforward–for example, if a driver runs a red light and hits you. Other times, it’s more complex. In most bicycle accidents, liability may fall on the following:
- Drivers – If a driver is distracted, speeding, or ignoring traffic laws and causes your accident, they’re liable.
- The city or state government – If poor road conditions, unsafe bike lanes, or lack of signage contributed to your accident.
- Other cyclists or pedestrians – If someone acted carelessly and caused the accident.
- Bike manufacturers – If a faulty bike part led to the crash, the company may be responsible.
Every situation is different, but figuring out who’s at fault is very important to building your claim. But it’s also about what you do after the accident.
What Should You Do If You’re in a Bicycle Accident?
No matter where your bike accident happens in the city, there are key steps you should take to protect your claim and gather the evidence you’ll need. So, here’s what you should do:
- Call 911 – If you can, move out of harm’s way. Call 911 right away, especially if you’re hurt and need medical help.
- Wait for the police – While on the line with 911, also ask for the Hollister Police Department or California Highway Patrol to come to the scene. The police will manage the scene and help you gather important information for your claim.
- Watch what you say – Don’t admit fault, even casually. When talking to the police or insurance companies, stick to the facts.
- Swap insurance and contact information – Get contact and insurance details from everyone involved in the accident. You’ll need this to file a claim later.
- Take photos and videos – Document everything: your injuries, your bike, any vehicles involved, road conditions, and anything else that shows what happened.
- Keep all physical evidence – Don’t throw away damaged clothing, your helmet, or any broken gear. These items can support your case.
- Hold off on repairs – Wait before fixing your bike or replacing damaged items. Leaving them as-is may help prove the extent of the damage.
Taking these steps helps protect your right to fair compensation and ensures you get the care and support you need. After that, our team can guide you through every step of the legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a claim after my bicycle accident?
In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you can’t file a claim or get damages.
Does it matter where the accident happens in Hollister?
No–your legal rights stay the same no matter where the accident happens in or around Hollister. If someone else’s negligence caused the crash, you have the right to file a claim.
How long does a bicycle accident claim take?
Every case is different. The timeline depends on factors like who’s at fault, the seriousness of your injuries, and the insurance coverage involved. Some claims settle quickly, while others take more time. There’s no fixed schedule.
Maison Law Can Help After a Hollister Bicycle Accident
If you or someone you care about is hurt in a bicycle accident in Hollister, it can be hard to know what to do next. Injuries, medical bills, and stress can pile up fast.
At Maison Law, we’re here to guide you through the legal process and help you get the financial support you need to get better.
Contact us today for a free consultation–we’re ready to help.
