Tustin Bicycle Accident Attorney
Aggressive Legal Representation for Injured Cyclists in Tustin, CA
Bicycling in Tustin offers a healthy and eco-friendly way to get around, but it also comes with serious risks. While cyclists may avoid high-speed highway crashes, bicycle accidents often result in severe or fatal injuries, especially when motor vehicles are involved. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most cyclist accidents occur during evening hours and outside intersections, and a high percentage result in life-altering consequences.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, a skilled Tustin personal injury lawyer can fight for the compensation you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Tustin
Cyclists face numerous hazards on the road. Among the most common causes of bicycle accidents are:
- Poor road conditions or inadequate lighting
- Low visibility or bad weather
- Aggressive dogs or animal attacks
- Negligent or distracted drivers
- Drunk or impaired drivers
- “Dooring” accidents — when a parked driver opens a door into a cyclist's path
Many of these accidents occur simply because drivers fail to share the road responsibly with cyclists, even though they are legally required to do so.
Key Statistics: Bicycle-Motor Vehicle Crash Factors
A landmark study by the University of North Carolina and the U.S. Department of Transportation analyzed 750 bicycle crashes involving motor vehicles. The top contributing factors were:
- 21.7% – Motorist failed to yield at an intersection
- 16.8% – Cyclist failed to yield at an intersection
- 12.1% – Unexpected turns or lane changes into cyclist’s path
- 11.7% – Cyclist failed to yield at mid-block driveways (common with children)
- 8.6% – Motorist misjudged distance when passing
- 7.3% – Sudden turns by the motorist into cyclist's path
These findings show that driver behavior is a leading cause of bicycle accidents, making legal accountability critical in the aftermath of a crash.
Serious Injuries Faced by Cyclists
Unlike car passengers, bicyclists have no protective barrier in a crash, making them extremely vulnerable. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 98% of cyclists killed in 1999 were not wearing helmets.
Typical bicycle accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones and fractures
- Severed or crushed limbs
- Severe abrasions ("road rash")
- Internal organ damage
These injuries can lead to long-term disability, loss of income, and extensive medical costs, sometimes for a lifetime.
What You Should Do After a Bicycle Accident
If you’ve been injured in a bike crash:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
- Report the accident to local authorities and ensure it’s documented.
- Collect evidence – photos, witness contact info, and police reports.
- Contact an experienced bicycle accident attorney before speaking with insurance companies.
Speak with a Tustin Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
Bicycle accident victims have legal rights. If a negligent driver, unsafe road condition, or other preventable hazard caused your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Don’t face this battle alone. Let a knowledgeable Tustin bicycle accident attorney stand up for you.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Tustin, contact the Law Office of Gary A. Peterson today. We offer free, no-obligation consultations to help you understand your rights and options. Let us fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
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