San Jose Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a bicycle accident in San Jose, you could be entitled to financial recovery for your injuries.

Bicycle crashes are especially dangerous because cyclists have limited physical protection. Even accidents at lower speeds can result in serious or permanent injuries.

The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez represents injured bicyclists throughout San Jose, Santa Clara County, and nearby communities including Campbell, Cupertino, Gilroy, and Los Altos.

Bicycle Accident Claims in San Jose — Legal Rights for Injured Cyclists

Bicycle accident cases in San Jose often involve multiple responsible parties, and insurance carriers may minimize injuries. A strong claim usually depends on building proof before it disappears and clearly showing what safety rule was violated.

Many bicycle crashes happen when drivers fail to yield, misjudge a cyclist’s right-of-way, or violate basic traffic rules. Other incidents involve roadway hazards such as uneven pavement, poor visibility from inadequate lighting, or dangerous conditions that a cyclist had no reasonable opportunity to avoid.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in San Jose

• Drivers violating a cyclist’s right-of-way at intersections and driveways
• unsafe turning collisions involving vehicles turning across a cyclist’s path
• Distracted driving from navigation systems and inattention near bike lanes
• Unsafe passing, aggressive driving, or failing to provide safe clearance
• “Dooring” accidents where a vehicle door creates an unavoidable hazard
• Hazardous roadway conditions including poor drainage and surface defects
• Hit-and-run crashes where the at-fault driver leaves the scene

Bicycle Accident Injuries We See in San Jose

Because cyclists are exposed, injuries are often painful and may require surgery. Even when symptoms seem mild at first, injuries can develop into chronic problems, especially involving the head.

• head trauma and ongoing post-concussion symptoms
• Broken bones such as wrists and orthopedic injuries requiring casting or surgery
• Neck injuries including herniated discs, nerve pain, and mobility limitations
• Road rash, scarring, and soft tissue injuries
• Internal injuries that require hospital monitoring

Who May Be Liable for a Bicycle Accident in San Jose

Liability depends on who caused the hazard. In many cases, more than one party may be responsible, including a driver, an employer, a property owner, or a public entity. We look for all responsible parties to avoid leaving compensation on the table.

• unsafe vehicle operators who failed to drive safely around cyclists
• companies when a worker caused the crash while on the job
• public agencies responsible for roadway design, signage, or maintenance
• businesses whose premises conditions contributed to the incident
• retailers when a defective bicycle part or safety component contributed to the injury

Compensation Available After a Bicycle Accident

An injured cyclist may be entitled to compensation for out-of-pocket costs and the life disruption caused by the crash. The value of a case often depends on long-term limitations and the strength of the evidence proving fault.

• Medical expenses including imaging and future treatment
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and trauma-related symptoms
• disfigurement and long-term limitations

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents

What if they say I caused the crash?

California follows comparative negligence, which means you may still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. Insurers often try to shift blame, so documenting the crash and preserving evidence matters.

Is there a deadline to sue?

Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years, but shorter deadlines can apply when a city or county is involved. Acting early protects your rights and improves evidence.

Will a report help my case?

A police report is not required in every situation, but it can provide valuable documentation when liability is disputed. If possible, gather photos, witness information, and prompt medical records.