Northern California Bike Accident Attorneys
Northern California Bicycle Law
Riding a bike is much like driving a motor vehicle when it comes to the rules of the road. Cyclists have the same legal rights and responsibilities as a motor vehicle driver and must comply with the same traffic regulations as a driver, with the exception of on-duty cycling police officers. Bicycle laws outlined in the California Department of Motor Vehicle’s (DMV) handbook clearly state the rules and regulations that all cyclists are to abide by.
The northern California bicycle accident lawyers at Estey Bomberger are very familiar with the state’s bicycling rules and regulations. In situations where the innocence of a cyclist is in question, we are prepared to dismiss any uncertainty of a cyclist’s character or fault in the accident. Through arduous case workup, we have been able to secure our clients substantial settlements and verdicts. Our clients’ settlements have helped them pay for past, current and future medical costs, lost earnings, permanent scars, long-term care, physical pain and mental distress.
California Bicycle Laws
Helmet use
California law does not require any person over the age of 18 to wear a helmet when riding a bike. A helmet that meets the standards of the American National Standards Institute, the Snell Memorial Foundation’s Standard for Protective Headgear for Use in Bicycling, or the American Society for Testing Materials must be worn by a person under the age of 18 while riding a bike.
Alcohol or drug use
It is illegal for any person to ride a bike while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A person arrested for bicycling under the influence (BUI) may face a fine of up to $250 dollars and suspension of his or hers driver’s license if under age, according to California Vehicle Code § 21200.5.
Equipment requirements
California Vehicle Code § 21201.a requires that all bikes must be equipped with a functional brake that can work on dry, clean pavement. Also, handlebars cannot be raised so high that a cyclist must raise their hands above shoulder level when riding a bike on a highway. Highway bike riding also requires that a cyclist be able to support the bike in an upright position with at least one foot on the ground when stopping. Night bike riding on highways requires a lamp that is visible from a distance of 300 feet fixed to the front and sides of the bike, and a red reflector visible from 500 feet mounted on the back of a bicycle.
Bicycle passengers
Passengers are not allowed on a bike unless a seat is permanently attached to the bike (e.g. tandem bikes). In situations where the passenger is four years old or younger (or 40 pounds or less), the bike must have a restraining seat attached.
Hand signals
California Vehicle Code § 22111 requires the use of hand signals given from the left side of the bicycle in the following situations:
- Left turn - arm and hand must extend horizontally from the side of the bike.
- Right turn - upper arm must extend horizontally from the side of the bike but forearm and hand must extend upwards vertically (forming a L-shape).
- Stopping - upper arm must extend horizontally from the side of the bike but the forearm and hand must extend downwards vertically.
When to Contact a Northern California Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you have been thinking about filing a personal injury lawsuit, contact a northern California bicycle accident attorney at the law firm of Estey Bomberger right away. We can ensure that your personal injury claim is filed within the statute of limitations, which is the time period given to file a claim. It is very important to understand that if legal action is not taken within the time given by the state, a claim will be denied.
Free Consultation
At Estey Bomberger, we believe every potential client should have the opportunity to learn his or her rights after suffering an injury in a northern California bicycle accident. Phone our law firm at (800) 890-6722 for a free consultation with one of our northern California bicycle accident attorneys. After listening to your story, we will review the facts of your case and inform you of your rights. Having our capable northern California personal injury attorneys discuss your case can be invaluable. Call today.