Proven Santa Barbara Lawyer Handles Bicycle Accident Claims

Accomplished litigator and cyclist delivers strong representation

It doesn’t matter if you’re commuting to work or enjoying the beauty that this area offers: riding a bicycle is an activity that benefits you and the people around you. Unfortunately, the freedom that one enjoys while riding in the open air also holds risks. In a collision with a larger vehicle, or a crash caused by road conditions, cyclists have little protection. When a cyclist is hurt due to someone else’s carelessness, my firm, Brian K. O’Connor & Associates in Santa Barbara, pursues full compensation for medical costs, lost wages and other damages stemming from the accident. I have more than 30 years of trial experience as both a prosecutor and a private-practice attorney and understand how to win in court and at the negotiation table. I’m also an avid cyclist and sponsor of the Santa Ynez Valley Cycling Club & Team and the Santa Barbara Triathlon Club, so I know firsthand the dangers that cyclists face. No matter how you were injured while biking, my firm can give you comprehensive legal advice regarding a potential claim.

California attorney seeks justice for people hurt in cycling collisions

Fatal collisions between bicycles and cars have been rising across the nation. In California alone, there are more than 100 deadly cycling accidents each year and thousands more collisions where a significant injury occurred. In a free initial consultation, I’ll explain the elements necessary to bring a personal injury or wrongful death claim for a cycling accident. My firm can prepare a powerful case in lawsuits arising from all types of causes, including:

• Distracted, impaired and inattentive drivers — Vehicle operators who are distracted by cellphones and other devices create significant risks for people on bicycles, because cyclists are much tougher to spot out of the corner of a driver’s eye. If a distraction led to your injury, our firm will build the strongest possible case against the careless driver.
• Sideswipes and opening doors — A turning motor vehicle or even one that drifts slightly in its lane can create a difficult situation for a cyclist that is impossible to avoid. Likewise, a car door opening can seem to appear out of nowhere. In cases involving multiple moving vehicles, I have the background and resources to reconstruct what occurred and determine who is at fault.
• Poor road conditions — Cyclists know road damage or debris can present a severe risk and the need to make a split-second decision. In some instances, drivers cannot even see the hazard that is forcing a bicycle rider to swerve either toward traffic or onto a sidewalk or roadside. If this caused your accident in whole or in part, my firm can initiate a claim against the government body or business that failed to take proper safety measures.

Many laws have been enacted to protect cyclists, but even after accidents occur, most drivers are not even given a ticket. I’ll enforce your legal rights and pursue complete reimbursement for your harm.

Contact a thorough California bicycle accident lawyer for a free consultation.

Brian K. O’Connor & Associates represents clients in Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties who have been hurt in bicycle accidents, as well as other types of personal injury claims for incidents triggered by someone else’s negligence. Please call 805-695-3531 or contact me online for a free consultation. My office is in Santa Barbara.