Bicycle Safety Laws in California: What Every Rider Should Know

California is one of the most bike-friendly states in the nation, with thousands of miles of bike lanes and a growing number of cyclists in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento. Yet, despite infrastructure improvements, bicycle accidents remain common. According to state data, thousands of riders are injured every year, often in collisions involving cars, buses, or unsafe road conditions.

At California Trial Law Group, we know that understanding and following bicycle safety laws is not only critical for reducing risks, but also for protecting your rights if you are ever involved in an accident.

California Bicycle Laws Every Rider Should Know

The California Vehicle Code (CVC) treats bicycles as vehicles, which means cyclists generally have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. However, there are also laws written specifically for bicycle safety. Here are the key ones every rider should understand:

1. Helmet Laws

• Riders under 18 are required to wear a properly fitted helmet (CVC §21212).
• Adults are not legally required to wear helmets, but doing so can significantly reduce the severity of head injuries in accidents.

2. Riding With Traffic

• Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic (CVC §21650). Riding against traffic is not only dangerous, but can also affect liability in an accident.

3. Use of Bike Lanes

• When available, cyclists should use bike lanes if moving slower than traffic. However, they may leave the bike lane when turning, passing, or avoiding hazards (CVC §21208).

4. Right-of-Way Rules

• Cyclists must follow the same right-of-way rules as vehicles.
• Motorists must provide at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle (CVC §21760).

5. Equipment Requirements

• At night, bikes must be equipped with a white front light, a red rear reflector, and side reflectors (CVC §21201).
• Bikes must also have functioning brakes capable of making a wheel skid on dry pavement.

6. Prohibited Actions

• Riding while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal (CVC §21200.5).
• Cyclists cannot wear headsets or earplugs in both ears while riding (CVC §27400).

How Violations Affect Liability

Both drivers and cyclists are responsible for obeying traffic laws. If a cyclist is injured in an accident but was breaking a traffic law (for example, running a red light or riding against traffic), the violation can impact the amount of compensation they receive.

Similarly, if a driver violates laws—such as failing to yield to a cyclist, texting while driving, or not giving the legally required three feet of clearance—the driver may be found fully or partially responsible for the accident.

Comparative Negligence in California

California follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that if you are partially at fault for your accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example:

• If a cyclist is hit by a car but was not wearing a helmet and suffers a head injury, the court may assign 20% fault to the cyclist for not taking reasonable safety precautions.
• If damages total $100,000, the cyclist could still recover $80,000 from the at-fault driver.

This system allows injured cyclists to recover damages even if they share some responsibility for the accident — an important protection under California law.

Why Knowing the Law Matters

Understanding bicycle laws is crucial not only for staying safe but also for protecting your rights if an accident occurs. Insurance companies often try to place blame on cyclists to minimize payouts. Knowing the laws helps you push back against unfair accusations and strengthens your case for fair compensation.

What to Do If You’re Accused of Partial Fault

After a bicycle accident, you may hear from insurance adjusters who claim you caused or contributed to your injuries. If this happens:

1. Do not admit fault at the scene.
2. Gather evidence — take photos, get witness information, and request a copy of the police report.
3. Seek medical treatment even if injuries appear minor, since documentation is essential.
4. Contact a personal injury attorney who understands bicycle laws and liability in California.

How California Trial Law Group Can Help

At California Trial Law Group, we have represented countless cyclists who were injured due to driver negligence, unsafe road conditions, or poorly designed intersections. Our team:

• Investigates the accident and collects evidence to prove fault.
• Counters insurance company strategies that try to blame the victim.
• Calculates the full value of damages, including medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
• Pursues maximum compensation through negotiation or litigation when necessary.

Whether you were struck by a distracted driver, injured in a “dooring” accident, or hurt by dangerous road conditions, we are here to fight for your rights.

Final Thoughts

Bicycling is a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around, but it comes with risks. Knowing California’s bicycle safety laws and how liability works can make a major difference if you are ever involved in an accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact California Trial Law Group today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.