Traffic Laws for Bicyclists in San Mateo

Cycling is a fun and great way to get around, but following traffic laws and rider safety is of the utmost importance when using a bicycle. These accidents can cause serious injuries, including head trauma, paralysis, and other life-altering conditions. As such, wearing a helmet, staying alert, and understanding the local traffic laws for bicyclists in San Mateo when riding is crucial for your safety.

In California, bicycles are considered vehicles. Therefore, when biking, it is important to understand and follow the rules of the road. If you suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, you have legal rights. Speak with a dedicated bicycle accident attorney to determine if you have a legal claim for your injuries.

Traffic Laws for Bicyclists

Just like other drivers in San Mateo, bicyclists are required to adhere to traffic laws. They are bound by the same traffic rules as drivers, meaning that a person riding a bicycle has all the same rights and must follow all the same provisions as a driver.

For example, cyclists cannot bike under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Likewise, they must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic. In addition, some other important traffic laws for cyclists include:

• Use Lights and Reflectors: Cyclists are required by law to use lights and reflectors when biking at night
• Ride with Traffic: Cyclists should ride in the same direction as vehicle traffic, as it better enables the drivers to predict the cyclist’s actions
• Ride on the Right Side of the Road: Although there are exceptions, cyclists should attempt to ride on the right side, or against traffic
• Use Bike Lanes: All bicyclists should use the pre-outlined bike lanes when available
• Riders Under 18, Wear A Helmet: Adult riders are not legally required to wear a bicycle helmet when riding, but they should for their own safety.

To learn more about traffic laws for bicyclists, speak with an injury lawyer.

Comparative Fault in Bike Crashes

In bicycle accidents, the at fault driver may attempt to limit their liability for the crash by claiming the San Mateo cyclist was partly to blame. When a bicyclist violates a traffic law and an accident occurs, they can be found partially at fault. In these types of cases, California applies what is known as comparative fault to determine the amount of compensation in disputes where multiple parties share fault.

This is a pure comparative negligence state, which means that injured parties can still receive damages even if they are 99% at fault for an accident. However, the courts will reduce the plaintiff’s award by their percentage of fault. For example, if the victim is found 20% at fault for a bicycle accident and receives a $100,000 verdict, they would receive $80,000.

Speak with a San Mateo Attorney About Bicycle Traffic Rules

Following traffic laws for bicyclists in San Mateo and taking safety measures can drastically reduce the risk of an accident. Cyclists should always yield to oncoming traffic and never assume a driver sees you coming. The cost of treating injuries from a bicycle accident can add up significantly. There is no reason you should be left with the costs when another driver’s careless actions caused the accident.

A lawyer could review your legal options and help you pursue a claim. At Solution Now Law Firm, we put our clients first; your case is more than just a number to us. We have the resources to assign experts to every case and work on a contingency-basis, meaning that there is no cost to you unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Schedule a free and confidential consultation today.