Bicycling is becoming more popular across California. Many people ride to get to work, exercise or help the planet. At the same time, many cities are adding new bike lanes and trails. However, bicycle crashes remain a major concern in many areas.
Drivers and cyclists share busy streets. Cities did not always build these roads with bikes in mind. Distracted driving also plays a big role. When drivers lose focus for even a few seconds, they may fail to notice a cyclist nearby. These risks help explain why collisions happen.
Distracted driving puts cyclists at risk
Distracted driving is one of the biggest safety problems on California roads. Many drivers look at phones for messages or maps. Even a brief glance away from the road can be dangerous. A driver might miss a cyclist traveling right next to them.
Cyclists are smaller and harder to see than cars. Because of this, drivers must stay very alert. They need to watch closely at intersections and when turning. A distracted driver may forget to check mirrors or blind spots before moving.
California law bans holding a phone while driving, but distractions still happen. When drivers focus on things inside the car instead of the road, they can easily overlook a person on a bike.
Road sharing rules in California
Another reason crashes happen is that people struggle to share the road safely. Some drivers do not know the latest bicycle laws. In California, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers.
Drivers must give cyclists plenty of space. Under the Omni-Bike Bill, drivers must move into another lane to pass a cyclist whenever possible. If a lane change is not possible, the driver must keep at least three feet of space between the car and the bike.
What to do after a crash
A bicycle crash can lead to serious injuries and high medical bills. In these situations, it helps to learn about legal rights. An attorney can help an injured cyclist understand California law and explain possible next steps.
