Close

Bicycle v. Truck Accidents in California

Bicycle vs truck accidents in California are an unfair “fight”. This is especially true in cities with a high mix of cyclists and truck traffic like San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County or the Inland Empire. A large percentage of the population owns and rides bicycles, according to statistics that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released. More than 57 million people rode bikes in 2002, and more than 2.5 billion people ride bikes today. The number is becoming increasingly high because the price of fuel continues to rise every day. Bicyclists are jumping on their bikes to travel to work, get exercise and perform household chores. Many towns have started accommodating cyclists by paving separate bike lanes on the roads. Unfortunately, bicyclists still have a high accident rate even with the existence of obvious bicycle lanes.

Bicycle Accident Statistics

More than 48,000 people were involved in bicycling accidents with vehicles in 2013, and 743 of those people died. The number has risen over the past five years, and some of the incidents involved large tractor trailers. Many states have helmet laws that require their bicyclists to wear a helmet on the road, but a helmet is just not enough to protect a person when the other accident party is in a truck.

Why Truck vs. Bicycle Accidents Occur

Bicycle and truck incidents are some of the most devastating incidents a rider can have. They occur for a wide variety of reasons. One reason that a truck may collide with a bicycle is a vision issue. A non-assertive truck driver could fail to see a bicyclist in a blind spot because of the truck’s height. Large tractor drivers have a difficult time seeing a person who is riding a small bike on the ground level directly to the right or left of the truck.

Another reason that a truck may collide with a bicyclist is the trucks delayed stopping because of the high momentum. Other factors that can affect a truck driver’s ability to drive are inexperience, alcohol and drug consumption and distraction. It is imperative for truck drivers to pay close attention to the road at all times.

Bicyclists must stay alert to the world around them, as well. Some bicyclists bring their music players and headsets along for a trip. Such can cause them to miss a horn honk that could warn them of a fatal danger. Bicycle riders can have the same hindrances that truck drivers can have. They can be inebriated, intoxicated or highly emotional. Bicyclists should be careful to concentrate solely on the road while they are riding.

Types of Accidents and Injuries

Hundreds of gruesome injuries can occur in a truck vs. bicycle accident. The impact of a truck on a person’s body is so strong that not many people survive. The impact vehicle usually hurls the bicyclist several feet from the incident. In fact, there have been numerous incidents where the bike accident victim’s body has been found tens and even hundreds of feet where the initial impact occurred. One very common scenario is an 18-wheeler turning right without warning and then hitting and dragging a cyclist that is riding or even stopped along the right-hand side of the rig. Most accidents in that category occur because of the truck’s blind spot.

Examples of some common injuries that a person can get from a truck and bicycle collision are a broken neck, crushed skull, brain damage, broken legs, broken arms, paralysis, broken spine and more.

The injuries that occur from an accident between a bicycle and a commercial vehicle can break and destroy an entire family. A person who survives may have to spend a month in the hospital, which will create astronomical medical bills. The surviving family members will have to pay the funeral expenses for a deceased person. Furthermore, the victims will have to work through emotional pain, missed work and other losses.

An injured bicyclist may qualify for personal injury compensation if the truck driver is guilty of neglect. A personal injury lawyer can examine the case and assess its validity. Survivors may be able to receive compensation for a family member who dies from such an incident. Compensatory damages can pay for medical bills, lost work wages, therapy, household bills and the like. Bike riders can also recover pain and suffering (including both compensation for physical pain and emotional distress) if the commercial truck driver is guilty of negligence. Truck drivers and bicyclists can decrease their chances of having an accident if they stay alert and fresh during their trips.

For more information on bicycle accident claims in California – visit our webpage.

Sources
Client Reviews
★★★★★
I have known Steven for some time now and when his services were required he jumped in and took control of my cases. I had two and they were handled with the utmost professionalism and courtesy. He went the extra mile regardless of the bumps in the road. I can not see me using any other attorney and I would recommend him to any of my family and friends. Josie A.
★★★★★
Steven was vital during our most trying time. He was referred by a friend after an accident that involved a family member. While he was critical and lying in the hospital, Steven was kind, patient and knowledgeable about what we were going through. Following our loss, Steven became a tough and aggressive negotiator and made sure that we receive a huge compensation. I would refer Steven in fact, this happened 2 years ago and I still speak highly of his service. Cheryl S.
★★★★★
Mr. Sweat is a pitbull in the courtroom as well as settlement negotiations - You can't have a better equipped attorney in your corner! It is a pleasure working as colleagues together on numerous cases. He can get the job done. Jonathan K.
★★★★★
Because of Steven Sweat, my medical support was taken care of. Plus, I had more money to spare for my other bills. Steven is not only an excellent personal injury lawyer, providing the best legal advice, but also a professional lawyer who goes beyond his call of duty just to help his clients! He stood up for me and helped me get through the process. I would definitely recommend. I couldn't think of any better lawyer than him. MiraJane C.
★★★★★
I must tell anyone, if you need a great attorney, Steve sweat is the guy! I had an awful car accident and had no idea where to turn. He had so much to deal with because my accident was a 4 car pile up. Not to mention all the other cars were behind me and they were not wanting to settle in any way! He never stopped working for me and had my best interest at heart! Audra W.
★★★★★
I believe I made the best choice with Steven M Sweat, Personal Injury. I was very reluctant to go forward with my personal injury claim. I had a valid claim and I needed a professional attorney to handle it. I felt so much better when I let Steven take my case. His team did everything right and I am very satisfied. Stia P.
★★★★★
I have to say that Steve has been exemplary! I met Steve at a point with my case that I was ready to give up. He took the time and dealt with all of my concerns. Most importantly, he was present and listened to what I was going through. He was able to turn things around, put me and my case on the right track! The results were better that expected! Highly recommend!! Cody A.
Contact Us
Start Chat