Average Bicycle Accident Settlement in California [2024 Updated]

Bicycle accidents can be particularly devastating, as bicyclists lack the protection provided by cars and trucks. Luckily, if your collision was caused by another party, you can seek compensation for the injuries and damages they caused. If you wish to take legal action after a bike crash, you may want to know the average bicycle accident settlement in California.

What Is the Average Bicycle Accident Settlement in California?

There is no definitive way to identify the average bicycle accident settlement in California. Every bicycle accident case is different. Some cases can result in hefty settlements, while others may not. Many different factors have to be taken into consideration before a settlement can be agreed upon by either party. Some of those factors may be:

• Medical Bills: A bicycle accident can result in serious injuries, which can be costly, especially if you were not wearing a helmet at the time. Medical expenses are a significant cost, and depending on the severity of your injuries, they could be the biggest expense for which you are seeking compensation. In your settlement, you could seek compensation for:
  • Hospital stays
  • Ambulance rides
  • Emergency room visits
  • Medication costs
  • Physical therapy
  • At-home medical equipment
  • Long-term care
  • Surgery costs
• Lost Wages: If you are severely injured in a bicycle accident, you will likely end up missing a great deal of work. Missing work may cause you to miss paychecks, and you can seek compensation for those lost wages as a part of your accident settlement. You can also seek compensation for any future earnings you may lose as a result of your injury.
• Lost Earning Potential: After a severe injury, you may be unable to return to work in the same capacity. This could mean that you’re unable to earn as much money as you could previously. In this case, you could be compensated for your lost earning potential.
• Property Damages: If you are involved in a severe bicycle accident, such as being hit by a truck, your bike may be significantly damaged. You can seek property damage compensation as part of your accident settlement. Property damage does not just include the bicycle. It also includes any other property that was damaged in the accident, such as your phone, gear, or other personal belongings.
• Pain and Suffering: Going through a traumatic event like a bicycle accident can cause a great deal of physical and emotional pain. Trauma can leave a mark, and you can seek compensation for that trauma by insisting on damages for pain and suffering. These damages can include compensation for:
  • Chronic pain
  • Depression
  • Emotional distress
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of enjoyment

  There are multiple ways to calculate pain and suffering compensation, as it can be difficult to assign a number to any one individual’s pain and suffering. Your lawyer can help you determine an appropriate number to pursue.

• Insurance Policy: The party found to be liable for your accident will likely have their insurance cover as many of your damages as they can. However, that insurance company may not be willing to pay out without a fight. Your lawyer can help you handle the negotiations with the insurance company.

FAQs

Q: How Much Compensation Can I Get for a Cycling Accident?

A: There is no telling how much compensation you could get for a cycling accident, as every accident is different. In order to determine an appropriate compensation package, you and your lawyer can assess your damages and negotiate that amount with the insurance company of the liable party.

Compensation will depend on the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life presently and in the future, as well as any damage to your personal property, like your bike and your cell phone.

Q: How Much Is the Average Accident Settlement in California?

A: It is difficult to determine the average accident settlement in California. Every accident case is different, and the specifics of each accident case are a deciding factor in the settlement amount. Certain factors have to be taken into account, such as the severity of your injuries, the nature of the accident, both parties’ willingness to reach a compromise, and whether your case has to be taken to court.

Q: What Should You Do in the Event of a Bicycle Accident?

A: In the event of a bicycle accident, the first thing you should do is take care of yourself. If you are severely injured, do not move. Call 911 if you are physically able, or try to get somebody else’s attention and have them call 911. If you are not severely injured, you should still go to the hospital so you can be assessed by a medical professional and receive a record of your visit.

After you have addressed your immediate health concerns, you should take time to gather evidence of the accident. This can include speaking with witnesses of the accident and collecting any video footage that may have been captured.

Q: How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Bike Accident?

A: The amount of time it will take for you to recover from your bike accident will depend entirely on a number of important factors that are unique to you and your case. These factors will include the severity of your injuries, whether or not you need physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation, and other indicators. Everybody’s journey to recovery is different, and there is no way to tell exactly how long your recovery will take.

Reach Out to an Experienced Bicycle Lawyer Today

The aftermath of a bicycle accident can be confusing, stressful, and overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with severe injuries that could be affecting your quality of life. It can be beneficial to your overall well-being to seek compensatory damages and hold the proper parties responsible for their negligent behavior.

The Law Offices of Christian J. Amendt can help you develop your case, advocate on your behalf against insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us to speak with an attorney and learn about the various ways we can help you.