Maison Law supports injured cyclists in California. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a driver crossing over into the bike lane, the Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Maison Law can get you the compensation you need.
Drivers who injure cyclists on the road are financially liable for the harm they have caused to others. Get an experienced personal injury law firm on your side after an injury by contacting Maison Law today for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
How California Law Protects Cyclists in the Bike Lane
According to the California DMV, over 100 bicyclists are killed and 10,000 injured in vehicular collisions each year. The majority of these accidents were avoidable as the leading causes were:
- Reckless driving
- Lack of bicycle right-of-way laws
- Lack of awareness on the road
In California, there are laws pertaining directly to bicycle safety to reduce the risk of collision from cyclists and drivers alike. These laws include:
- California Vehicle Code 21209: this law prohibits other drivers from driving in the bike lane except to park in permitted areas, or when leaving or entering the roadway.
- California Vehicle Code 22517: this statute covers dooring. Dooring is when a driver opens their vehicle door into the path of an oncoming rider. Under this law, no driver shall open the door of their vehicle on the side that is available to moving traffic unless it can be done in a reasonably safe manner and without interfering with moving traffic.
- Bicyclists in traffic: cyclists are required to ride as close to the right side of the road as possible except when they’re trying to avoid a hazard, turn left, or when passing. They are also required to signal their movements when turning or preparing to change lanes.
- Riding on sidewalks and crosswalks: California allows cyclists to ride legally in crosswalks. Some cities permit cyclists to ride on sidewalks, but some cities have banned cyclists from using the sidewalks.
When Can Drivers Enter the Bike Lane
California Vehicle Code 21209 does not allow motorized bicycles in the bike lane, however, when they are in the bike lane, they’re required to drive at a safe speed. The statute goes on to say:
“(a) No person shall drive a motor vehicle in a bicycle lane established on a roadway pursuant to Section 21207 except as follows:
(1) To park where parking is permitted.
(2) To enter or leave the roadway.
(3) To prepare for a turn within a distance of 200 feet from the intersection.
(b) This section does not prohibit the use of a motorized bicycle in a bicycle lane, pursuant to Section 21207.5, at a speed no greater than is reasonable or prudent, having due regard for visibility, traffic conditions, and the condition of the roadway surface of the bicycle lane, and in a manner which does not endanger the safety of bicyclists.”
When is it Safe for a California Driver to Enter the Bike Lane?
Motorists are only permitted to drive on the bike lane in the following scenarios:
- To enter or leave the road
- Preparing for a turn at an intersection
- To park
While motorists can enter the bike lane when it is necessary, they must be aware of bicyclists and give them the right-of-way. One of the most common bicycle/vehicle accidents is when a car makes a right turn and crosses over into the bike lane while a biker is in it. In California, a right-turning car is supposed to move into the bike lane before the intersection, anywhere from 200 to 50 feet before they merge into the right lane. This is covered in California Vehicle Code 21717:
“Whenever it is necessary for the driver of a motor vehicle to cross a bicycle lane that is adjacent to his lane of travel to make a turn, the driver shall drive the motor vehicle into the bicycle lane prior to making the turn and shall make the turn pursuant to Section 22100.”
How Can a Lawyer Help After a Bicycle Accident?
If you only suffered minor scrapes or bruises from your bicycle accident, then you most likely do not need a lawyer. It is recommended to consult with an attorney after an accident for the following reasons:
- There were serious injuries: You will need compensation to cover your current and future medical bills if you’ve suffered serious injuries. An attorney can ensure both.
- Wrongful death: If a loved one has passed away due to the accident you will need compensation for funeral expenses and damages related to the untimely loss.
- Fault: If you are blamed for the accident, but are not at fault, an attorney can protect and assign liability to the at-fault parties. Also, an attorney can reduce liability if you are liable to some extent.
- Multiple parties involved: Multiple parties make cases complex. An attorney can manage your case while protecting your best interests and right to compensation from all liable parties.
- False police report: If a police report places blame on you, and you disagree, an attorney will gather evidence to support your claim.
Contact a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, the Bicycle Accident Attorneys at Maison Law can help. Our firm has years of experience in bicycle accident law and will aggressively pursue fair compensation on your behalf, even if you were partially at fault.
If you are partially at fault, then we will work to minimize your liability or eliminate it entirely. Speak with one of our highly experienced personal injury attorneys today by contacting Maison Law for a no-risk, no-cost case evaluation.
