Bakersfield Bike Accident Lawyer

Were You Seriously Injured in a Bike Accident in Bakersfield?

Being injured in a bicycle accident can be physically and emotionally challenging, particularly when it’s the result of another’s negligence. California personal injury law recognizes an injured victim’s right to financial compensation for such accidents, including bicycle accidents.

However, obtaining fair compensation often requires navigating complex legal proceedings and negotiating with difficult insurance companies. Partnering with an experienced Bakersfield bicycle accident lawyer simplifies this process and improves the chance of successful financial recovery.

At The Law Offices of Daniel Kim in Kern County, we have successfully obtained maximum recovery when representing victims of bicycle accidents. If you were involved in a bike accident due to another party’s reckless actions, please contact our law firm as soon as possible to meet the statute of limitations filing deadline. We offer a free case evaluation to get started. 

No Win. No Fee. Guaranteed.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, allowing clients access to top-tier representation without the fear of upfront fees or out-of-pocket legal services. We only collect a smaller percentage of the final settlement if, and only if, the case results in a win. To learn more about our contingency fee arrangement or for questions regarding your case, please schedule a free, no-obligation assessment today. 

Content and Resources

• Why Hire Daniel Kim as Your Bakersfield Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
• Do I Have a Case for My Bicycle Accident Injury?
• What Damages Can I Recover in a Bicycle Accident Case?
• What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
• Who Is Responsible for My Injuries in a Bicycle Accident?
• What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident?
• What Are the Most Common Bike Accident Injuries?
• Bakersfield Bicycle Accident Statistics
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Contact The Law Offices of Daniel Kim Today
• Directions to Our Office in Bakersfield

Why Hire Daniel Kim as Your Bakersfield Bicycle Accident Lawyer?

Our law offices understand how devastating bike accidents are. This is why we try to make the legal proceedings as seamless as possible so that the only responsibility of our clients is to focus on what matters most–their health. We offer our services and expertise in the following ways:

• Provide a free case evaluation, discussing specifics, like anticipated timeframe and case value
• Conduct a thorough investigation of the bicycle accident and obtain substantial evidence to prove fault on the other party
• Calculate the full extent of losses, accounting for economic damages and non-economic damages
• Aggressively negotiate for maximum compensation out of court or in litigation if necessary
• Protection from insurance companies who will attempt to significantly reduce the claim value

Bakersfield bicycle accident lawyer, Daniel Kim, maintains a 99% success rate for winning personal injury cases for victims of motor vehicle-related accidents throughout Southern California, including Kern County. Set up your free case evaluation here.

Do I Have a Case for My Bicycle Accident Injury?

Many are surprised to learn that they may still recover compensation, even when they are partially responsible for the crash. However, proving the majority of fault on the other party will require some legal expertise due to the state’s comparative negligence laws. 

Beyond rider and driver negligence, a manufacturer defect may contribute to the bicycle accident. Similarly, if hazardous road conditions, such as potholes, were a contributing factor, pursuing a claim against the city or road maintenance agency is also a viable option.

Ultimately, anyone injured in a personal injury accident, including bicycle accidents, has the right to file a claim and recover damages for their losses. To determine the validity of a claim, it is always best to consult with Bakersfield bicycle accident attorneys.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Bicycle Accident Case?

Financial recovery for a bicycle accident case will always vary, as compensation is based on the severity of injuries and correlating losses. 

Regardless, the outcome is devastating and not fair to victims. This is why The Law Offices of Daniel Kim is dedicated to delivering our clients the justice they deserve, successfully obtaining compensation for:

• Current medical bills
• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earnings
• Disability
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Wrongful Death Accidents

The tragic loss of a loved one in a bicycle accident in California may entitle surviving family members to seek compensation under wrongful death statutes. Our Bakersfield bicycle accident lawyers at The Law Offices of Daniel Kim can provide compassionate guidance and legal expertise during this challenging time.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

Most bicycle accidents share a common denominator: a negligent driver. When a car collides with bicyclists, the driver is typically at fault, due to the following reasons:

• Distracted Driving: texting while driving, eating, drinking, passengers, checking social media, changing music 
• Driving Under the Influence: alcohol or drug intoxication
• Reckless Driving: speeding, running stop signs, running through red lights
• Dooring: opening a car door into a bicyclist
• Limited Visibility: time of day, weather conditions, no reflectors
• Manufacturer Defects: bicycle or motor vehicle defective parts
• Road Defects: broken street lights, lack of bike lanes, missing traffic signs, uneven pavement, potholes

Who Is Responsible for My Injuries in a Bicycle Accident?

While it may initially appear the driver bears sole responsibility in a bicycle accident, a comprehensive analysis may reveal additional contributing factors and other liable parties. This may include the following: 

• Parts Manufacturer: If faulty brakes or other equipment contributed to the accident, legal action against the manufacturer or a repair shop if a vehicle was recently serviced. 
• City or Government: It is the city of Bakersfield’s responsibility to maintain the infrastructure of its roadways. If an unsafe road condition played a role in the bicycle accident, claims against the responsible government agency could be explored.
• Bicyclist (Plaintiff): Fault can also fall on the individual filing the claim. Everyone possesses the responsibility to prevent an accident. When not wearing reflectors while riding at night or failing to wear a helmet, liability can fall on the bicyclist. 

By meticulously reconstructing the accident and identifying other contributing factors, a robust case can be constructed, aiding in clients recovering the maximum compensation.

What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?

The immediate actions taken after a bike accident can significantly impact the outcome of a bicycle accident claim.

1. Call 911: When filing a personal injury claim, a police report is one of the most valuable pieces of evidence to possess.
2. Get the Driver’s Information: Collect the driver’s contact number, license, and insurance information, but avoid engaging in further conversation.
3. Talk to Witnesses: If bystanders were present during the accident, get a statement of what was witnessed, as well as their contact information.
4. Document Everything: This information should also be noted in the police report. However, keep a personal accord, as well. Include the time of day, accident scene location, and any other relevant details about the event.
5. Collect Evidence: Using a cellphone, take pictures of the crash, visible injuries, damage to the bicycle, other personal property, and condition of the involved vehicle. Photo evidence supports the validity of damages in a personal injury case.
6. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Regardless of apparent severity, always seek medical attention. Some injuries progress over time and if left untreated can have devastating long-term consequences. Retain all medical bills and records.
7. Do Not Speak to the Insurance Company: To file a bicycle accident injury claim, the other party’s insurance must be contacted. However, do not provide a recorded official statement or accept any offers right away, because they may try to minimize or deny the claim.
8. Contact a Bakersfield Bike Accident Lawyer: Consulting with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in bicycle accidents is essential. Legal representation increases the chances of winning and securing maximum compensation.

What Are the Most Common Bicycle Accident Injuries?

Bicycle accidents often lead to serious injuries that require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. While not an exhaustive list, Bakersfield bicycle accident lawyers can help victims who have sustained the following types of bike accident injuries:

• Broken bones
• Skull fractures
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage
• Paralysis
• Neck injuries
• Lacerations
• Permanent scarring

Injuries also come in the form of mental pain and suffering, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The aftermath of a bike accident, whether physical or psychological, requires specialized treatment from the top medical professionals. Our legal team assists clients in receiving the proper medical needed for an effective recovery. 

Statistics: Bakersfield Bicycle Accidents

Although the city of Bakersfield has wide roadways and designated bike paths, such amenities only sometimes prevent an accident from taking place. 
Since 2003, there have been an average of four fatal bike accidents per year in Kern County. Additionally, the rate of fatal accidents is above the state average, which is .75 per 250,000 people.

Studies have shown that bicyclist fatalities occur the most between 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M., with 75% occurring in urban areas, versus rural areas of 25%. Overall, 846 cyclists were killed in traffic collisions in 2019.

The Most Accident-Prone Intersections in Bakersfield

According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the following streets and intersections are the most dangerous for pedestrians and bicyclists:

• California Ave. and Baker St.
• Union Ave. and California Ave.
• 4th St. and Union Ave.
• Columbus St. and Mount Vernon Ave.
• Golden State Avenue and F St.
• H St. and Brundage Ln.
• H St. and Planz Rd.
• Hageman Rd. and Riverlakes Dr.
• Ming Ave. and Akers Rd.
• Oak St. and California Ave.
• Stockdale Hgwy. and Village Ln.
• Union Ave. and 17th St.
• Union Ave. and 18th St.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need to contact my insurance company after a bicycle accident?

It’s okay to report the accident, but do not go into detail about the event or say anything that can be interpreted as admitting fault. even personal insurance providers may not have a client’s best interest in mind. It’s best to consult with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer who will work as the main source of communication with the insurance company.

• How long do I have to file a claim after a bicycle accident?

Under the statute of limitations, a bicycle accident claim typically must be filed within two years from the date of injury. However, accidents involving government entities are only given six months to file a claim. Regardless of circumstances, if a claim is not filed before the statute of limitations expires, the victim loses the right to seek damages. 

• What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?

Injured victims with uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may use their personal coverage to cover some of the damages, even in a bike accident. Another option is to file a bicycle accident lawsuit against the driver, as income and assets can be used to pay for losses. 

• What if the driver’s insurance company denies my claim?

Insurance companies have a vested interest in saving the company money, as opposed to fairly compensating injured victims. Oftentimes, this is why claims are denied. Therefore, speak to an experienced bicycle accident attorney who can review the case, confirm its validity, and advise on legal options.

Contact The Law Offices of Daniel Kim Today

While the specific recoverable damages depend on the unique circumstances of each case, our compassionate legal team is committed to investigating all aspects of the bicycle accident and pursuing maximum recovery for our clients. 

We understand the emotional toll accidents have on victims’ lives. This is why our law firm strives to provide comprehensive legal representation with your well-being as a top priority. To learn how we can assist you, please schedule a free consultation today. 
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Other Practice Areas Bakersfield Bicycle Accident Attorneys Specialize In

At The Law Office of Daniel Kim, our personal injury attorneys in Bakersfield exclusively handle motor vehicle accident cases, setting us apart from others in the industry. This allows us to offer the best service to our clients who want real experience and knowledge.

Other Practice Areas We Specialize In

Directions to Our Office in Bakersfield, CA

Our personal injury law office is located across the street from the Kern County Superior Court and located in the Truxtun Tower (Bank of America Building), on the corner of Truxtun Ave. and Chester Ave.

Car Accident Lawyer Daniel Kim – Bakersfield
Address: 930 Truxtun Ave., Suite 210, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone: (661) 846-8116