The Rise of Bicycling in California
California, and particularly San Diego, has seen a major increase in the number of people using bicycles for transportation, fitness, and leisure. With a growing number of bike lanes, green initiatives, and cycling communities, it’s more important than ever for cyclists to understand the laws that protect and regulate their rides.
But here’s the twist—just like motorists, cyclists are subject to specific rules of the road. And when accidents happen, understanding these laws becomes crucial in establishing fault and protecting your rights.
At AK Injury Law Firm, we know the stakes. We’ve seen firsthand how insurance companies try to deny or minimize claims. That’s why knowing the legal landscape isn’t just helpful—it’s a strategic advantage.
California’s Legal Definition of a Bicycle
Under California law, a bicycle is considered a vehicle. This means that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. According to the California Vehicle Code (CVC), a bicycle is a device propelled by human power through pedals, having one or more wheels.
Why does this matter? Because the moment you’re on the road, the same laws that apply to a car apply to you in many ways—particularly when it comes to obeying traffic signals, right-of-way, and yielding.
Where Cyclists Can (and Cannot) Ride
California Vehicle Code Section 21200 and 21202 dictate where a cyclist can legally ride:
- On the Roadway: Cyclists must ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway unless:
- Overtaking another vehicle
- Preparing for a left turn
- Avoiding hazards
- Traveling at the same speed as traffic
- Bike Lanes: Where a bike lane is provided, cyclists must use it if they are moving slower than traffic, unless they are turning left or avoiding an obstruction.
- Sidewalks: Whether a cyclist can ride on the sidewalk depends on local municipal ordinances. In San Diego, it’s generally prohibited in business districts.
Failing to follow these regulations can not only lead to citations but also affect the outcome of a personal injury claim.
Helmet Laws in California
California requires helmets for:
- Riders under 18 years of age
- Any person riding an electric bicycle (Class 3) or e-scooter
Adults are not legally required to wear helmets on standard bicycles, but wearing one could significantly impact your injury claim in case of an accident. Insurance companies may argue “comparative negligence” if you weren’t wearing a helmet and suffered a head injury—even if the driver was at fault.
Rules for Night Riding
California law mandates that cyclists riding at night must be equipped with:
- A front white light visible from at least 300 feet
- A red rear reflector visible from 500 feet
- Reflectors on pedals or cyclist’s shoes
- Reflectors on the wheels or tires for visibility from the side
Failure to comply with these rules can weaken your case in a bike accident—especially if visibility is a key factor in determining fault.
Right-of-Way and Stop Sign Rules
Cyclists must:
- Obey stop signs and traffic signals
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Signal before turning or stopping (using hand signals)
Violating these laws not only puts you at risk of injury but could also limit your ability to recover compensation after an accident.
Common Scenarios Where Cyclists Are Injured
Despite the legal protections in place, cyclists often find themselves the victims of serious injuries caused by negligent drivers. Common scenarios include:
- Dooring Accidents – When a driver opens their door without checking for cyclists.
- Right Hook Collisions – When a car turns right across a bike lane.
- Left Turn Crashes – When a vehicle turning left fails to yield to an oncoming cyclist.
- Rear-End Collisions – Often due to distracted driving or failure to notice the cyclist.
In each of these cases, insurance companies may try to shift blame onto the cyclist. That’s where having a strategic and experienced attorney makes all the difference.
Insurance and Liability: What Cyclists Need to Know
Many cyclists don’t realize they can file a claim against a negligent driver’s auto insurance policy. If the driver is at fault, their bodily injury liability coverage is designed to compensate the injured party—including cyclists.
But here’s the catch: insurance companies are trained to minimize payouts. They may argue:
- You weren’t visible enough.
- You weren’t in the bike lane.
- You should have reacted faster.
This is where the expertise of a smart, strategic law firm like AK Injury Law becomes essential. We anticipate these tactics and prepare counterarguments from day one.
Comparative Fault in Bicycle Accidents
California follows the principle of comparative negligence, which means that if you’re partially at fault, your compensation can be reduced proportionally.
For example:
- If you’re found 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, you receive $80,000.
- If you’re 50% at fault, you get $50,000.
This is a tactic insurance companies love to exploit. At AK Injury Law, we work proactively to reduce or eliminate claims of comparative fault—by gathering surveillance, interviewing witnesses, and using expert accident reconstructionists when needed.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
If you’re involved in a crash:
- Call 911 and report the incident.
- Do not admit fault, even if you’re shaken.
- Collect evidence: photos of the scene, damages, vehicle plate, and driver’s info.
- Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
- Do not speak to the insurance company before talking to a lawyer.
Dr. Azadeh Keshavarz, the founder of AK Injury Law, understands not only the legal aspect but also the physical toll an accident can take on your body. As a former chiropractor, she has deep insight into your injuries—and knows how to communicate the long-term impact to insurance companies and juries.
E-Bikes and Scooters: Are They the Same?
California has recently passed additional laws for electric bicycles and scooters, including:
- Mandatory helmet laws for certain classes
- Restrictions on sidewalk usage
- Speed limits on multi-use paths
If you’re injured on an e-bike, your claim will likely follow the same process as a bicycle accident—but these new classifications can complicate your case. Make sure your attorney understands the nuances.
Legal Time Limits (Statute of Limitations)
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in California, you typically have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. However, if a government entity (like a city bus or street maintenance crew) is involved, the deadline may shrink to six months.
Missing these deadlines could mean forfeiting your right to compensation altogether.
How We Can Help
At AK Injury Law, we don’t just fight—we outthink, outfight, and outwin.
Dr. Azadeh Keshavarz brings a unique advantage to every case. As a former chiropractor who witnessed firsthand how insurance companies undermine accident victims, she opened this firm to change the narrative.
We know what you’re up against. Insurance companies are strategic—and so are we. We prepare your case with precision, uncover every angle they might exploit, and negotiate from a position of strength. If needed, we go to court ready to win.
Whether you’ve been hit while commuting, riding recreationally, or training on the road, we’re here to help you navigate the complex legal process and maximize your recovery.
Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders—so you can focus on healing. Contact AK Injury Law Firm today for a free consultation.
