Maison Law Accident and Injury Lawyers of Fremont helps anyone that’s been hurt in a bicycle accident. Even if you know that there are various laws in place to protect you while you bike, it doesn’t mean you won’t be in an accident. And this usually means pretty serious injuries. Our team can help you through the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Does Fremont Have its Own Bicycle Laws?
Like any other city, Fremont has a dual system of laws that cover bicycling. The state laws are overarching, meaning they apply all the time. But there’s also certain laws set by the City of Fremont:
- 10.010 – A “bicycle” is any device a person can ride, powered by human effort using belts, chains, or gears. It must have wheels at least 20 inches wide and a frame that’s at least 14 inches tall.
- 10.020 – If you live in the city and own a bicycle, it must meet California Vehicle Code (CVC) safety standards. This includes having things like reflectors and other safety devices.
- 10.030 – It’s illegal to ride a bicycle without following city and state traffic laws, including the rules of the road.
- 10.040 – You can’t ride a bicycle on sidewalks unless allowed. Children under the age of 16 can ride on the sidewalk as long as they are careful and yield to pedestrians, but not in front of schools, stores, or business buildings. Bicycles on sidewalks must be ridden in a single line.
- 10.050 – You can’t park a bicycle where it blocks windows, the main part of the sidewalk, or creates a danger for pedestrians, traffic, or property.
CVC Bicycle Laws
The other part of Fremont’s bicycle laws are the ones that are codified in the California Vehicle Code (CVC). As you might expect, these are more extensive, and apply to areas that are outside of the city’s control, like highways and other state-controlled property.
- CVC 21200 – Bicyclists have the same rights and rules to follow as people in motor vehicles.
- CVC 21200.5 – It’s illegal to ride a bike while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- CVC 21202 and 21204 – Bicycles must be equipped with the following:
- Brakes that can stop on dry, flat ground.
- Handlebars lower than your shoulders.
- Be small enough to stop, put one foot on the ground, and start safely.
- A headlight or white light when riding at night.
- A red reflector on the back, white or yellow reflectors on the sides, and on the pedals.
- A permanent seat.
- A child seat for kids under 40 pounds that protects them from moving parts.
- CVC 21202 – Bicyclists must ride close to the right side of the road unless passing, turning left, avoiding hazards, or if the lane is too narrow.
- CVC 21203 – Bicyclists can’t grab onto moving vehicles to be pulled along.
- CVC 21204 – Bikes on freeways must have a proper seat. You can’t have passengers unless they have a separate seat. Children under the age of 4 or under 40 pounds need to be in a safety seat.
- CVC 21205 – Riders must keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times. You can’t carry anything that stops you from doing this.
- CVC 21207.5 – Motorized bikes aren’t allowed on bike lanes or trails, but electric bikes (e-bikes) are okay.
- CVC 21208 – If you’re riding slower than traffic , you must use the bike lane unless turning left, passing a slow or stopped vehicle, or avoiding hazards.
- CVC 21210 – Don’t leave your bike on its side or park it in a way that blocks people walking.
- CVC 21211 – You can’t stop or park your bike on bike paths or in lanes.
- CVC 21212 – If you’re under 18, you must wear a helmet while riding a bike . Breaking this law can lead to a fine of up to $25.
- CVC 21650 – Ride on the right side of the road in the same direction as traffic, preferably on the shoulder.
- CVC 21960 – Fremont can ban or limit bikes on highways. Signs will be posted to let you know.
- CVC 23330 – Unless there’s a sign that says otherwise, bikes aren’t allowed on toll bridges.
- CVC 27400 – You can’t wear headphones or earplugs in both ears while riding, unless they’re hearing aids.
Remember, these laws are in place to protect you while you’re riding your bike. But it’s also important to remember that these laws alone can’t protect you from being in an accident. So, you have to know what you can do if you’re in one.
What Do You Need to Do If You’re in a Bicycle Accident?
Whether you’re in Fremont or anywhere else, there’s certain steps you need to take right after a bike accident happens so you can take care of not just your health and safety, but your potential legal action. Here’s a few things you’ll need to do:
- Move to a safe spot, like the side of the road or away from the bike path, to avoid further danger.
- Get medical help right away, both from EMTs at the scene and later from a hospital or doctor. Even if you feel okay, don’t refuse medical assistance.
- Report the accident to the Fremont police or county sheriff so they can document it.
- Exchange contact and insurance info with everyone involved.
- Take photos or videos of the scene and any key details.
- Save any items that might be evidence of what happened.
- Schedule a follow-up with your doctor to track your injuries.
- Don’t rush to fix your bike or other damaged items.
Even if you follow these steps, you still need to prove your damages. This is where our team can help. We can gather medical records, accident reports, and other evidence to support your claim. But more than that, we’ll be there to support you as you get better.
Legal Support From Fremont Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Knowing Fremont’s bike laws is a great way to be informed and prepared when you ride, but unfortunately it won’t keep you from being hurt in an accident. At Maison Law Accident and Injury Lawyers of Fremont, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers will be there to help you through the legal process and recover from these injuries. Don’t wait–contact us today for a free consultation to get started.