San Diego: Many Bicyclists, Many Bike Accidents

May 31, 2013

San Diego offers numerous bike paths, roads and trails for all types of riders, from competitive cyclists to mountain bicyclists, road cyclists and casual cyclists. Because of its positive cycling culture and beautiful weather, San Diego is host to many bicycling races, including the San Diego Century 2013, which takes place June 1. The city also hosts riders from the popular Race Across America, which starts in Oceanside, California, in June.

Yet, because so many people bike for sport, leisure and commuting in San Diego, the city also has its fair share of bicycling accidents.

In 2009, for example, approximately 1,000 bicyclists were either killed or injured in San Diego County. On average, the city sees 70 bicycle accidents every month. Statewide, 11,993 people were injured and 109 were killed in bike accidents in 2009.

Is San Diego A Bicycle-Friendly City?

This raises the question: Is San Diego a bicycle-friendly city?

The County of San Diego Grand Jury thinks the city can do much more to keep bicyclists safe. On May 14, 2013, it issued an improvement report calling for San Diego to take steps to improve bicycle safety throughout the city. The report recommended:
- Improving bike lane/bike path maintenance
- Installing additional bike lanes throughout the city
- Removing sharrow lanes (lanes where bicyclists and cars fully share lanes) in downtown San Diego
- Increasing enforcement of the California Vehicle Code by San Diego police
- Establishing an office to ensure that San Diego complies with the San Diego Regional Bicycle Plan

More can also be done to raise awareness of bicycle safety issues with both bicyclists and drivers. Of course, while we can decrease the number of bicycle accident injuries and fatalities by improving bicycle lanes and paths and raising awareness, some bicycle accidents will still occur. What do you do if you are involved in or lose a loved one to a bicycle accident?

I Was Injured In A Bicycle Accident. Can I Recover Compensation?

Many people do not realize that their car insurance will also cover a bike accident as long as another vehicle is involved in the accident. In most cases, bicyclists can bring claims against the at-fault driver's insurance company.

Even in hit-and-run accident cases, cyclists may still be able to recover compensation through a claim against their own underinsured/uninsured auto insurance policy. Note: Purchasing uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance is a good idea for anyone, but it is especially important for cyclists to have this insurance.

Generally, to win a bike accident case, you must be able to prove that the driver who hit you acted negligently. Did he or she forget to look over his or her shoulder when making a turn or changing lanes? Did the driver fail to yield the right of way? The police report, witnesses, bike and car damage -- all of these things can help prove negligence. If successful, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills (including future medical bills), pain and suffering, loss of income, and other economic and noneconomic damages.

If you are involved in a bicycle accident on San Diego streets, call the police, seek medical help and then contact an attorney. Do not speak with insurance adjusters on your own. Their goal is to decrease the amount of compensation you can receive for your bicycle accident injuries. An experienced attorney can speak to them on your behalf and advocate for your best interests.

Article provided by The McClellan Law Firm
Visit us at www.mcclellanlaw.com