What Type of Insurance Covers Bike Accidents in California? (2024)

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Do I Need a Lawyer After a Bicycle Accident?

There are some circ*mstances in which you may need the assistance of an attorney after a California bicycle accident. Many individuals do not need the help of a lawyer if there was minor property damage or injuries. On the other hand, you may need the assistance of a lawyer if the following statements are true:

Your accident was caused partially or fully by another party
Your injuries required you to spend time in the hospital or follow-up visits
You were forced to miss out on time at work due to your injuries
Your life has otherwise been impacted by the accident

By working with an attorney after your accident, you will likely obtain a higher settlement offer from insurance. At Maison Law, we will advocate on your behalf so that you do not have to face a bicycle accident claim on your own.

Insurance Coverage for Bicycle Accidents in California

There are several ways that you can move forward financially with the help of insurance after a bicycle accident in California. Who is at fault for your accident will typically help you determine which option is right for your case. Here are some options that may be available for you based on your particular circ*mstances:

At-Fault Driver Insurance: If your bicycle accident was caused by a negligent driver, you will be able to file a claim through the at-fault driver’s car insurance. Through their insurance, you will be able to receive compensation for a wide array of aspects such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more depending on the circ*mstances.
Med Pay: Med Pay, which is also known as Medical Payments Coverage, is something that may be available for you through your auto insurance policy. Med Pay can help you cover your medical expenses but may only be available if the accident was a hit-and-run.
UIM/UM Coverage: Some individuals carry uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage through insurance policy. You can use this coverage in the event of a hit-and-run accident or if you were struck by a driver who was not carrying insurance or has too little insurance coverage.
Bicycle Insurance: In some cases, a cyclist may be able to obtain a coverage just for bicycling. However, it is important to take a close look at this insurance and what it actually covers before you make a purchase.
Homeowner’s Insurance: Homeowner’s insurance can cover any damage that you have obtained as a result of your accident if the accident was caused by another party. Homeowner’s insurance may be able to cover bicycle damages and injuries you have suffered.

How to Help Your Bicycle Accident Insurance Claim

You can take a variety of steps following a California bicycle accident to ensure that your rights are protected in your insurance claim. Insurance companies will be examining your case closely and might try to offer you much less than you deserve in damages. This is why you need the best proof possible to show that your injuries were caused by another party’s negligence and that they are as serious as you say that they are.

Here are some steps that you can take after a bicycle accident in California:

Call the police, especially when another party is at fault for your accident.
Address your injuries by seeking medical treatment and following up with your doctor.
File your claim based on the insurance options that you have.
Gather evidence including photographs, videos, and witness statements.
Contact an attorney who has handled bicycle accident cases in the past.

What Damages Are Available After a Bicycle Accident?

You may be able to obtain a wide array of financial damages after a California bicycle accident. In some cases, these types of financial support may be available to you through an insurance claim. However, insurance companies do not always offer the fairest settlement. This means that many bicycle accident victims have to file a lawsuit against an at-fault party for recovery. You may find that you are eligible for some of the following damages:

Medical bills and future medical bills you may incur
Lost wages and future lost income due to missing time at work
Pain and suffering damages
Punitive damages
Loss of enjoyment of life as a result of your injuries
Therapy costs

Under California’s statute of limitations, you will find that you have limited time to file a claim. In California, it is two years from the time of your accident to file a claim for damages until you are barred from doing so. Speaking with a legal advocate as soon as possible is the best way to retain your rights during these challenging times.

Contact a California Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

It is not uncommon to be left with questions concerning insurance after a bicycle accident, as these are complex matters that you may not be able to handle on your own. This is why our California bicycle accident lawyers at Maison Law are here to help you move forward after an accident. Even when you feel like the medical bills keep piling up and there is no end in sight, we are here to help you obtain the recovery you need to get back on your feet. Please contact us today for a no-obligation case review.