Bike Accidents

Cyclists have the right to safely navigate California roads. Unfortunately, other motor vehicle drivers sharing those roads may not display mutual respect and choose to promptly assign blame to bicycle riders for vehicle-cycle collisions. At Corsiglia McMahon & Allard, L.L.P., we fight aggressively for the rights of bicycle riders, working to provide swift, comprehensive representation of personal injury claims while seeking fair compensation for the injured.

Our attorneys contending with insurance companies on your behalf to secure the greatest recovery award. Insurance companies hire seasoned professionals to prevent paying accident claims. It is important to hire a firm with a reputation for holding insurance companies accountable and obtaining fair compensation for clients.

Do not assume options are limited or that the case is open and shut. Even if you believe you are completely or partially at fault, there is still hope. We can help you sort through the details and begin to outline a plan to put you in the best possible position, going forward.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System, bicycle fatalities in California increased by seven percent between 2011 and 2012. In that same reporting period, the California Office of Traffic Safety reports that 31 people were either killed on injured in Monterey County bicycle accidents. Because California is one of the leading states with a large cycling population, our personal injury attorneys are focused on building legal strategies to protect the rights of bicycle riders.

Due to the disproportionate size and weight between motor vehicles and bicycles, cyclists often sustain debilitating and even fatal injuries. It is in your best interest to retain counsel immediately to help you understand your rights and gather accident details and any pertinent evidence. Please refrain from making any agreements at the scene or after the fact. Any agreement you make without the guidance or presence of an experienced bicycle accident lawyer could negatively impact your claim or subsequent case.

When you experience a bicycle accident, please be sure to complete the following steps to help us put you in the best possible situation to recover damages:

• Seek medical attention quickly;
• Gather insurance information from all parties;
• Hire a personal injury attorney;
• File an accident report within ten days with the California Department of Motor Vehicles; and
• Limit communication with insurance companies and do not admit fault.

Bicyclists are held to the same traffic laws as vehicles, but if you were hit while violating traffic rules that does not mean you are excluded from pursuing a claim. Despite the circumstances, drivers must make a reasonable effort to avoid hitting you. The driver of a vehicle may be considered legally responsible for an accident, giving cyclists the right to pursue compensation from the insured.

Bicycles offer no protection and often result in catastrophic injuries and even fatalities. Our attorneys are experienced at aggressively pursuing the maximum appropriate damages for injured bicyclists and their families.

If you, a family member, or someone you know has been hurt or fatally injured in a bicycle accident, please contact us by calling (408) 298-7200 today. You may schedule a free consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys so that you may share the details of your matter. Our staff is fluent in English and Spanish. We serve the Monterey area including Pacific Grove, Carmel, Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Cruz, Aptos, Soquel, Scotts Valley, Marina, Hollister, San Benito County, and the Monterey Bay community.