Motorcycle, E-Bike & Bicycle

Accident Attorney

Even when wearing a helmet, bicycles, motorcycles, and e-bikes do not give users protection. A rider often suffers catastrophic injuries if struck by a car, truck or bus; the injuries sustained may lead to permanent disability or even death. If you or a loved one has suffered such a tragedy, it is vital that you obtain the greatest compensation available so you can cover medical bills and other expenses.

With his extensive experience in the often complex and difficult bicycle accident cases, San Mateo County attorney Reuben J. Donig is well-prepared to assist you with your claim. Please contact our California office today to schedule a free consultation.

Motorcycle, Bike, and E-Bike Accidents

Two-wheel vehicle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which involve the negligence of other drivers. Some of the most common causes include:

• §Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone
• §Failure to yield the right of way
• §Unsafe lane changes or blind spot collisions
• §Speeding or reckless driving
• §Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• §Poor road conditions or hazards

Identifying the cause of the accident is critical in determining liability and building a strong claim.

Injuries Resulting From Motorcycle and Bike Accidents

Due to the exposed nature of motorcycles and bikes, accidents often lead to serious or life-altering injuries. These may include:

• §Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• §Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• §Broken bones and fractures
• §Road rash and severe skin injuries
• §Internal injuries and organ damage

These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and long-term care, making fair compensation essential for recovery.

E-Bike Accidents

E-bikes occupy a legal gray area that many riders and insurance adjusters don’t fully understand. San Mateo County classifies e-bikes into three categories (Class 1, 2, and 3) based on speed and pedal-assist features, and that classification affects where an e-bike is legally allowed to operate and what rules apply. E-bike accidents often involve higher speeds than a standard bicycle, product issues with batteries or brakes, or drivers who simply don’t expect an e-bike to be traveling as fast as it is.

Sources of Compensation for an Injured Cyclist, E-Bike Rider, or Motorcyclist

A number of sources may be held liable for damages such as the victim’s auto and health insurance policies. For example:

• §Under both personal injury protection and uninsured/underinsured motorist provisions, injuries from a hit-and-run bicycle accident may be covered by a car insurance policy held by any member of the victim’s household.
• §A defective product claim may be made if the bike helmet failed to protect the bicyclist’s head or if the bicycle’s brakes failed.
• §The driver of a motor vehicle is considered negligent if they failed to stop at an intersection’s traffic signal, drove into the bike lane, failed to acknowledge the bicycle reflectors in the headlights, or sped in conditions of poor visibility or bad weather.
• §An employment claim may be made if the bicyclist was injured while working for a bike messenger service.

Reuben J. Donig’s experience as an attorney will aid you in receiving all possible compensation to ensure that you recover physically and fiscally from your accident.

Dealing With the Insurance Company After Your Accident

Do not accept any insurance compensation offers until you have spoken with your lawyer first. Due to the critical state of the early stages of a settlement, it is important that you preserve your right to a personal injury trial by contacting a lawyer first.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, we can guide you through the legal process and help pursue the compensation you deserve.