Bicycle-car accidents are on the rise, and the consequences are often devastating. In the last decade, bicyclist deaths have surged by over 50%, with 1,377 lives lost in 2023 alone. Many of these tragedies involve fatal injuries that could have been prevented with better awareness, safer roads, and timely medical care.
Bicycle riders in California face daily risks from distracted drivers, poor infrastructure, and unsafe conditions. For cyclists and drivers, recognizing the leading causes of these accidents is crucial to preventing injuries and saving lives.
Let’s break down the leading causes of these crashes and what you can do to reduce the risk of serious harm.
1. Speeding Drivers
Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to stop or react in time. For cyclists, a high-speed impact can cause severe injuries or even death. Speeding is especially dangerous near intersections or in areas without proper bicycle lanes.
Tips for cyclists:
- Use bright clothing and reflective gear, especially at night.
- Avoid riding too close to the curb, where you may be hard to see.
- Use lights and reflectors to increase visibility.
2. Improper Turns and Lane Changes
Many Sacramento car accidents involving bicycles happen when drivers make quick turns without checking for cyclists. Left-hand turns, in particular, are high-risk.
Cyclists can protect themselves by:
- Avoiding driver blind spots.
- Signaling clearly when changing lanes.
- Using bike-mounted mirrors to monitor nearby traffic.
Even with precautions, drivers who fail to yield or merge safely can cause life-changing bicycle accidents.
3. Distracted Driving
Distractions like texting or adjusting the GPS lead to countless crashes. When a driver’s focus is elsewhere, cyclists often pay the price. This form of driver negligence can make the driver the liable party in a legal claim.
If a distracted driver hits you, speak to a bicycle accident lawyer before dealing with the insurance company. You can pursue a personal injury claim and seek maximum compensation.
4. Inadequate Bicycle Infrastructure
Many California roads lack safe bicycle lanes, forcing cyclists to ride dangerously close to cars. In older parts of Sacramento, the problem is even worse. Poor road conditions, narrow streets, and faded lane markings contribute to risk.
Safer riding tips:
- Plan your route around roads with dedicated bike lanes when available.
- Report dangerous road conditions to your local city office.
- Be especially cautious at intersections and unprotected turns.
5. Driving Under the Influence
The influence of alcohol and drugs impairs a driver’s ability to see and react to cyclists. Sadly, DUIs are still a leading factor in California traffic accidents, including bicycle crashes.
If you suspect a driver was impaired:
- File a police report immediately.
- Collect witness information.
- Seek legal advice right away from a trusted accident lawyer.
6. Bad Weather Conditions
More than half of all fatal bicycle accidents occur in low-light conditions, including early mornings, evenings, or nighttime. Limited visibility during these times makes it harder for drivers to see cyclists, increasing the risk of collisions.
What cyclists can do:
- Install weather-resistant tires.
- Reduce speed during rain or fog.
- Use waterproof, reflective gear and lights.
Drivers, too, must adapt to weather conditions and drive cautiously in the presence of cyclists.
7. Failure to Obey Traffic Laws
Cyclists are in danger when drivers run red lights, fail to yield, or perform rolling stops. To avoid accidents, cyclists must also follow traffic laws and ride predictably.
Examples of risky behavior that lead to bike accidents:
- Drivers passing too closely
- Cyclists riding against traffic
- Ignoring stop signs
Following traffic rules protects everyone and strengthens your case in a traffic accident.
What to Do After a Bicycle-Car Accident
After a collision, it’s critical to stay calm and take the right steps:
- Get medical attention immediately—even if you feel okay.
- Document the accident scene with photos or videos.
- Request a copy of the police report.
- Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters without legal guidance.
- Contact a bicycle accident attorney in Sacramento for help.
The sooner you act, the stronger your case may be for holding the liable party accountable and recovering damages.
We’re Here to Guide You Forward
A bike accident can overwhelm you, especially when dealing with injuries, insurance claims, and lost wages. Our Sacramento legal team is here to support you every step of the way. With experience handling bicyclist deaths, traumatic brain injuries, and other severe cases, we know how to fight for what you deserve.
We offer free consultations, so there’s no cost to explore your options. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle-car accident, speak to a dedicated bicycle accident attorney in Sacramento today.
Contact us now to get the medical care you need and the money you deserve.
