San Diego Bicycle Accidents: Top Collision Types and Legal Options

San Diego offers beautiful weather and bike-friendly paths—but it’s also one of California’s leading counties for serious bicycle accidents. Understanding the most common types of bike crashes can help riders stay safe—and know what to do if they’re injured by someone else’s negligence.

At Hulburt Law Firm, we’ve represented cyclists facing life-changing injuries, uncooperative insurance companies, and drivers who flee the scene. Here’s what you need to know.

‍

1. Vehicle Collisions

Motor vehicle crashes are the most common and most severe type of bicycle accident in San Diego. Over 700 collisions involving cyclists and cars are reported in San Diego County each year. These often happen at intersections, in bike lanes, or when drivers fail to yield.

Common Causes:

• Distracted driving (texting, GPS use)
• Failure to yield when turning or merging
• Speeding, which increases both impact force and injury severity

Injuries Often Include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Broken bones and fractures
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal trauma

"We’ve seen too many cyclists suffer life-altering injuries because a driver looked at their phone instead of the road. Our job is to hold those drivers accountable—and make sure the truth is heard." - Conor Hulburt

‍

2. Left and Right-Turn Accidents

These occur when drivers turn across a cyclist’s path without yielding.

• Left-turn accidents typically happen when a driver underestimates a cyclist’s speed or visibility.
• Right-turn accidents often happen when a driver cuts across a bike lane without looking.

Primary Causes:

• Blind spots and poor mirror use
• Drivers rushing to beat oncoming cyclists
• Lack of bike lane awareness

‍

‍

3. Rear-End Collisions

When drivers follow too closely or aren’t paying attention, they can strike a cyclist from behind—especially dangerous for unprotected riders. These collisions often result in neck, back, and head injuries, even at lower speeds.

Typical Factors:

• Cell phone use
• Impaired or drowsy driving
• Low-visibility conditions (poor lighting or weather)

‍

4. Hit-and-Run Accidents

Sadly, some drivers flee after striking a cyclist. These hit-and-run cases present unique legal and financial challenges—especially when the driver’s identity remains unknown.

Legal Tip:

You may still be able to recover compensation through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, even if you were riding a bike.

‍

5. Dooring Incidents

Dooring happens when someone in a parked car opens their door into the path of a cyclist. With many of San Diego’s bike lanes running adjacent to parked vehicles, dooring is a common and preventable hazard.

Common Causes:

• Vehicle occupants failing to look before opening
• Bike lanes placed too close to curbside parking
• Narrow urban street design

‍

What Are Your Legal Options After a Bicycle Accident?

If you’ve been injured while cycling, it’s critical to understand your legal rights. California law protects cyclists—and holds drivers accountable for negligence.

1. Personal Injury Claims

You can pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Future rehabilitation

Evidence like witness statements, police reports, medical records, and video footage can help establish fault.

2. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

If the at-fault driver has no insurance—or in hit-and-run cases—your own auto insurance may cover damages through UM coverage.

3. Claims Against Government Entities

If unsafe road conditions or poorly maintained bike lanes contributed to your accident, you may have a claim against the city or state. These cases have short filing deadlines, so don’t wait.

4. Wrongful Death Claims

If a loved one is killed in a bicycle accident, surviving family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek accountability and financial support.

‍

‍

Why Choose Hulburt Law Firm?

Attorneys Conor and Leslie Hulburt are seasoned trial lawyers who understand the unique dangers cyclists face. We’ve helped clients recover millions after devastating bike accidents—including cases where insurers tried to minimize or deny legitimate claims.

"Insurance companies often try to minimize the impact of bike crashes. But we know the stakes, and we’re relentless in proving exactly how a driver’s negligence changed our client’s life." - Leslie Hulburt

‍

Protecting Cyclists, Pursuing Justice

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. The Truth Demands Justice—and at Hulburt Law Firm, we’re ready to fight for yours.

Visit our San Diego Bicycle Accident Attorney page to learn more, or contact us today for a free consultation.

‍

FAQ: Bicycle Accidents in San Diego

Q: What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident?
A: Prioritize safety—move out of traffic if you can, call 911, and seek medical attention. Document the scene, get witness info, and contact a bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible.

Q: Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
A: Yes. While not wearing a helmet may impact your case, it does not bar you from recovering damages, especially if the driver was primarily at fault.

Q: What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?
A: You may still be eligible for compensation through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. An attorney can help you pursue a claim even if the driver is never identified.

Q: Can I sue the city if poor road conditions caused my crash?
A: Yes, but claims against government entities have strict deadlines—often as short as six months. You’ll need to prove negligence in road design or maintenance.

Q: How long do I have to file a personal injury claim after a bike accident in California?
A: Generally, two years from the date of the accident. But deadlines can be shorter for claims involving public agencies.

‍

Related Content:

• Bicycle Accident Statistics in San Diego
• Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents