Davis Bicycle Accident Attorney
Davis Bike Crash Lawyer:
Protecting Cyclists’ Rights in the City of Bicycles
Riding a bike in Davis, California, is more than just a way to get around—it’s a lifestyle. Known as the “Bicycle Capital of the U.S.,” Davis has an incredible network of bike paths, bike circles, and even bike traffic signals, making it one of the most cycling-friendly cities in the nation. However, even in this two-wheeled paradise, accidents happen. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Davis, it’s important to understand your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. A dedicated Davis bicycle accident attorney can help you navigate this challenging time and recover damages for your injuries.
John McCarthy, a Davis graduate and experienced personal injury lawyer, is here to help cyclists in the Davis area. Having spent years biking around the city himself - John understands the unique joys and risks of riding in Davis. He knows what it’s like to share the road with cars and other cyclists, and he’s committed to protecting the rights of those injured while riding.
The Trials and Tribulations of Riding a Bicycle in Davis
For those who love cycling, Davis is a dream come true. The city’s extensive network of bike paths, protected bike lanes, and dedicated bike signals make it easy to get around without ever having to get in a car. Whether you’re biking to class at UC Davis, commuting to work, or just enjoying the scenic routes along Arboretum Drive, there’s something special about cycling in Davis.
The UC Davis campus alone has over 20 miles of bike paths, and the entire city is known for being bike-friendly. But with so many cyclists on the road, and with the inevitable interactions with cars and pedestrians, accidents are unfortunately common. One of the most dangerous spots for cyclists in Davis is the city’s many bike circles, which are designed to help traffic flow but can often lead to confusion—and crashes.
Riding in Davis, as wonderful as it is, comes with its own set of risks. Inexperienced drivers who fail to yield to cyclists, potholes or poor road conditions, and crowded intersections can all lead to dangerous accidents. Even the safest cyclists can find themselves in a serious crash through no fault of their own. If you’ve been injured in a bike accident in Davis, it’s important to know that you have rights and may be entitled to bicycle accident compensation.
What Laws Protect Cyclists in Davis?
Cyclists in Davis are protected by a range of California bicycle accident laws that are designed to keep them safe on the road. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional rider, understanding these laws is essential for protecting yourself and knowing when to seek legal help if you’re involved in a crash.
Some of the most important laws protecting cyclists in Davis include:
Equal Rights on the Road: Under California law, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. This means that drivers must yield to cyclists, provide safe passing distances, and share the road respectfully.
Three-Foot Passing Law: California law requires that drivers give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing. This law is designed to prevent close calls and accidents that can occur when cars pass too closely.
Helmet Laws: While cyclists over the age of 18 are not required to wear helmets, those under 18 must wear a helmet at all times. Regardless of the law, wearing a helmet is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself in the event of a crash.
Bike Lane Use: Cyclists must use bike lanes where they are available, except when turning left, avoiding hazards, or passing another cyclist. Davis has a robust network of bike lanes, but these can still be risky when drivers aren’t paying attention.
Yielding at Crosswalks: Cyclists must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and are required to obey all traffic signals and signs.
Sidewalk Riding: Riding on the sidewalk is prohibited in certain areas of Davis, particularly in busy downtown sections and the UC Davis campus. Cyclists should stick to bike lanes or roads in these areas to avoid accidents with pedestrians.
Understanding these laws can help you avoid accidents and also provide a foundation for your legal rights if you’re injured in a crash. If you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s negligence—whether it’s a driver, pedestrian, or even a fellow cyclist—you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Why File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Yolo County?
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Davis, you might be wondering whether it’s worth filing a personal injury lawsuit. The answer is yes—if you’ve suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve to be compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. A lawsuit not only helps you recover financially but also holds the responsible party accountable, which can help make the roads safer for other cyclists.
Filing a lawsuit in Yolo County after a bicycle accident can help you recover several types of damages:
Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments related to your injuries, which can be substantial if you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, spinal injury, or broken bones.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for the wages you’ve lost, as well as any future lost income if your injuries are long-term or permanent.
Pain and Suffering: In addition to the physical injuries you’ve suffered, a bike accident can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. These non-economic damages are also compensable.
Property Damage: If your bicycle or any personal belongings were damaged in the crash, you can recover compensation for repairs or replacement.
Filing a personal injury lawsuit in Yolo County doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process. With the help of an experienced Davis bicycle crash lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while your attorney handles the legal complexities.
What to Expect from a Personal Injury Lawsuit for a Bicycle Accident in Davis
When you file a lawsuit after a bicycle injury in Davis, there are several key steps to expect:
Free Consultation: Your first step is to schedule a consultation with an attorney to discuss the details of your case. John McCarthy offers a free case evaluation, where he’ll review the circumstances of your accident, provide legal advice, and outline your options.
Investigation and Evidence Collection: Once you hire an attorney, they will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence such as accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available video footage.
Negotiations with Insurance Companies: Your attorney will handle all communication and negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Insurance companies often try to settle for less than you deserve, but a skilled lawyer will fight for full compensation and won’t just cave and tell you to settle.
Settlement or Trial: Most cases settle outside of court, but if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial. John McCarthy has extensive trial experience and will advocate tirelessly on your behalf.
Compensation: If your case is successful, you’ll receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages you’ve incurred.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Davis?
At McCarthy Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay anything upfront. We only get paid if we win your case, so you can pursue justice without worrying about legal fees. This fee structure allows injured cyclists and students to access the legal help they need without the stress of additional financial burdens.
There are no hidden fees, and you won’t owe us anything unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Our goal is to make the legal process as stress-free as possible so you can focus on healing.
Finding the Best Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Davis
When looking for a bicycle accident lawyer in Davis, it’s important to choose an attorney with the right combination of experience, knowledge, and a personal connection to the cycling community. Here’s what to look for:
Experience: Choose an attorney who has a proven track record of handling bicycle accident cases and understands the complexities of personal injury law.
Local Knowledge: A lawyer familiar with the unique roads, bike paths, and traffic conditions in Davis will be better equipped to handle your case effectively.
Personal Connection: You want an attorney who understands what it’s like to be a cyclist. John McCarthy, a UC Davis graduate, spent years biking in Davis and knows firsthand the risks cyclists face.
Why John McCarthy is the Best Bicycle Accident Lawyer Serving Davis
John McCarthy isn’t just any personal injury lawyer—he’s a cyclist, advocate for cycling, with deep ties to the Davis community. As a graduate of UC Davis, John spent years biking the city’s paths, bike lanes, and campus circles. He’s even experienced the hazards of biking in Davis firsthand, including a memorable crash in the bike circle at California Avenue and North Quad.
John understands the unique challenges and dangers of cycling in Davis, and he’s passionate about helping injured cyclists get the justice they deserve. His law firm, Central Coast Personal Injury Law, provides legal counsel to cyclists throughout California and beyond. Additionally, John provides legal advise to Bike Santa Cruz County, actively supports Bicycle Monterey’s educational initiatives and is proud that his firm is recognized as a bike-friendly business by Bike SLO County. As part of his commitment to the cycling community, John also offers discounts to members of the California Bicycle Coalition.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Davis, don’t wait—get your free case evaluation from John McCarthy today. With his experience, dedication, and personal connection to the cycling community, John is the best choice to help you recover the compensation you deserve and get back on the road.