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Bicycle Accident: Critical Steps to Take After a Crash
Cyclists face serious risks when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Raffi Naljian understands the unique challenges bicycle accident victims face—from dealing with bias against cyclists to documenting injuries that may be more severe than initially apparent. This guide provides essential steps for cyclists after an accident with a motor vehicle.
Injured while cycling?
Raffi Naljian
California Personal Injury, Litigation & Criminal Defense Attorney
Raffi Garabed Naljian is an active California attorney listed under State Bar #238919. The State Bar profile lists personal injury, litigation, criminal law, and business law among his self-reported practice areas, and Naljian Law Offices describes a Glendale practice handling criminal defense and civil litigation, including personal injury matters.
View Full ProfileIs This the Right Attorney for Your Case?
Bicycle accident cases often face unfair bias. Insurance adjusters may assume the cyclist was at fault or not following traffic laws. Raffi Naljian advocates for cyclists and understands California's bicycle laws, including lane positioning rules and right-of-way. When looking for a bicycle accident attorney, find someone who takes cyclist rights seriously. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
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What to Do Next
- 1Do not move if you suspect spinal injuries
- 2Call 911 and insist on a police report
- 3Document your bicycle and helmet damage
- 4Get the driver's insurance information
- 5Take photos of the scene, including road conditions
- 6Note any bike lane markings or signage
- 7Seek medical attention even for seemingly minor injuries
- 8Preserve your helmet and damaged cycling gear
Evidence Checklist
- Damaged helmet (critical evidence—do not discard)
- Photos of bicycle damage
- Photos of road conditions (bike lanes, debris, hazards)
- Driver's insurance and contact information
- Witness statements
- Police report
- Medical records documenting injuries
- Cycling computer data if available (speed, route)
- Dashcam or GoPro footage if you were recording
Facing bias as a cyclist?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Discarding your damaged helmet before documenting it
- Accepting blame because you weren't in a bike lane
- Not insisting on a police report
- Downplaying injuries due to adrenaline
- Repairing your bicycle before documentation
- Not photographing road conditions that contributed
- Settling quickly for just bicycle replacement costs
How the Process Typically Works
1
Emergency Care
Get medical attention; document everything at scene
2
Evidence Preservation
Secure helmet, bike, clothing, and data
3
Medical Treatment
Follow through with all recommended care
4
Investigation
Attorney reviews evidence, challenges cyclist bias
5
Demand
Present full claim including gear replacement
6
Resolution
Negotiate fair settlement or litigate
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Emergency medical care
- •Surgery for fractures or other injuries
- •Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- •Lost wages
- •Pain and suffering
- •Bicycle replacement or repair
- •Helmet and gear replacement
- •Permanent injury or scarring
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be in a bike lane to have a valid claim?
No. California law allows cyclists to use regular traffic lanes. Cyclists have the same rights as vehicles. Not being in a bike lane doesn't make you at fault.
What if the driver claims they didn't see me?
Drivers have a duty to watch for cyclists. "I didn't see them" isn't a valid defense—it may actually prove negligence. Your visibility (lights, reflectors, clothing) can help, but drivers must look.
Why is my helmet important evidence?
Your helmet shows the impact point and severity. It proves you were wearing proper safety equipment and can demonstrate how hard you were hit. Never throw it away.
What if I wasn't wearing a helmet?
California requires helmets for riders under 18. For adults, not wearing a helmet may affect damages for head injuries, but you can still pursue your claim for other injuries.
Can I recover the cost of my bicycle?
Yes. Bicycle damage is property damage, recoverable like car damage. High-end bicycles can cost thousands, so document your bike's value and condition pre-accident.
What if I was doored by a parked car?
California law requires drivers and passengers to check before opening doors into traffic. The person who opened the door is typically liable for dooring accidents.
Cyclists deserve fair treatment.
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Important Disclosures
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.