Most traffic collisions involve at least one driver violating traffic regulations. When a driver strikes a cyclist in traffic, excess speed, refusal to yield and other traffic violations are often the underlying cause of crashes.
In some cases, cyclists file insurance claims to secure compensation after a crash caused by a driver. Unfortunately, drivers who violate traffic statutes may also refuse to conform to California state laws mandating liability insurance. Cyclists may need to take action to hold unsafe drivers accountable, especially if they lack insurance or have only the minimum coverage required by the law.
Cycling collisions are costly
Every year, collisions between vehicles and bicycles result in billions of dollars in losses. Medical expenses, property damage costs and lost wages can easily add up to tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Cyclists often face major injuries, while drivers may only have cosmetic damage to their vehicles to address.
Usually, the party at fault for the crash has insurance coverage to anyone with verifiable losses, such as medical bills. Unfortunately, if a driver is uninsured when they hit a cyclist, there may not be any liability coverage available. In those cases, the injured cyclist very likely needs to take legal action to hold the driver accountable. Occasionally, there might even be the option of pursuing a third-party lawsuit.
Cyclists who are injured by irresponsible and unsafe drivers should not have to absorb those losses. Getting experienced legal guidance can be beneficial for those who have been involved in crashes, especially if an uninsured motorist is at fault for the crash.
