Santa Barbara Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Cycling is a popular activity in Santa Barbara. It provides a good form of exercise, and an environmentally-friendly way to get around the city. However, cyclists are aware of the dangers they face on the road. Motorists do not always watch for cyclists in the same way they watch for other vehicles and during a crash, it is always the cyclist that will become hurt. Below, our Santa Barbara bicycle accident lawyer explains the laws that govern these crashes and how to prove liability.
Bicycle Laws in Santa Barbara
State law provides bicyclists in Santa Barbara with the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists on the road. Still, drivers sometimes do not understand these laws, or they simply ignore them. The law also outlines specific rules for bicyclists. For example, motorists must provide cyclists with a minimum of three feet of space when passing or driving beside a cyclist. Motorists are also prohibited from obstructing bicycle paths or stopping in them.
Cyclists must also follow certain rules. Unless a cyclist is turning left, passing, or riding on a narrow or one-way street, they must always ride with the flow of traffic. When a cyclist is moving slower than surrounding traffic, they must also use the bike lane. There are exceptions to this law when a cyclist is approaching a turn, avoiding a hazard in the lane, or passing another cyclist.
Determining Liability After a Bicycle Accident in Santa Barbara
Most bicycle accident claims rely on the legal concept of negligence. Negligence refers to careless actions or inactions that fail to keep other people safe. When filing a claim for financial compensation, you must prove that someone else acted negligently. To do this, you must present evidence that supports your claim, which may include:
- Photos and video footage of the accident scene
- Police reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Medical reports documenting the nature and severity of your injuries
- Pay stubs and other employment documents supporting your damages for lost wages
When you are trying to recover from serious injuries, it is immensely difficult to obtain the above evidence on your own. Our Santa Barbara bicycle accident lawyer will know what important pieces of evidence to collect so you obtain the full settlement you are entitled to.
There are some cases in which you do not have to prove negligence. For example, if a motorist broke the law and you were injured as a result, you can file a claim based on negligence per se. In these cases, you do not have to prove the driver was negligent, only that they broke the law and you became hurt as a result.
Call Our Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Santa Barbara for Help
If you have been hurt in a crash, our Santa Barbara bicycle accident lawyer at Zavala Law can provide the sound legal advice you need and make sure your rights are upheld. Call us now at 805-429-4292 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable attorney and to get more information.
