Bicycle Law

If you were creating the perfect cycling playlist, song #1 would be ___

There are many lawyers in the Bay Area advertising for bicycle crash cases — but not all of them are also cyclists. 🚲

One of the main advantages of Bicycle Law is that many of us are cyclists AND lawyers, so we understand what it’s like to ride a bike in urban areas like San Francisco where cyclist interactions with motorists and other road users can be intense and, unfortunately, sometimes dangerous.

➡️ Having an attorney who can understand your incident — and thus your claim or lawsuit — from the point of view of a cyclist is a huge advantage in pursuing an injury claim.

As longtime cyclists, we know what it feels like to crash and how disruptive crash-related injuries can be to one’s life and work.

We have years of lived experience interacting with motorists on urban and suburban streets, and also on long road rides in rural areas.

⚖️ We are lawyers with bicycle-specific expertise.

Want to learn more? We’re always happy to discuss your situation in more detail. Call us now at (866) 835-6529 or email us for a free initial consultation.

We apologize in advance, this is a Debbie Downer post. No one wants to think about this. It's bike theft.

It's real ... it happens ... but it's mostly avoidable. And — to cover the percentage of times when it's not avoidable, you can get a rock-solid insurance strategy in place.

And yes, we have a resource for that.

Check out the guide in the comments to get your gears turning about protecting your wheels.
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Hey! Did you know we have a bicycle safety library available on our website? Let's be honest, for experienced and new riders alike, it never hurts to brush up.

The link to this resource is in the comments. Let us know what you think. Have fun and rubber side down!

📷dalenyang

Summer's not over yet! We're about halfway through...but it's never too late to make some fun plans.

What rides are you mapping? What new training techniques are you trying out? What two-wheeled long weekends are you considering?

Share away, we'd love to hear.

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🤔 Should you represent yourself? The TL;DR is that it may be a good idea for simple, lower-value cases.

For example: Let’s say you are hit by a car, liability is admitted by the other side, and your medical injuries are fairly limited, and they resolved quickly and without any long-term impairments or disabilities.

If your medical bills and other expenses are straightforward, and you have no unique or complex pain-and-suffering claims, you may very well be able to settle your case without a lawyer (i.e., within several months of the crash) after sending all your documentation to the motorist’s insurance adjuster.

If you choose to represent yourself, however, be prepared to spend some time reading your insurance policies, assembling your evidence, and calculating your total medical bills.

It will also take some time to write your demand letter to the motorist’s insurance adjuster. If you like learning a new skill and have time for this, and your case has limited damages and is not factually or legally complicated, this could be the right decision for you.

Generally, in more complex cases (i.e., disputed liability, multiple defendants, a case involving any government entity as a defendant, moderate-to-severe injuries, unresolved injuries with expected future medical costs, multiple medical liens from different medical providers, and/or complex wage loss or loss of future earning capacity claims) ... you will likely be better off hiring a lawyer who specializes in this area of the law.

Want to learn more? Check out our in-depth — but easily understood — guide using the link in the comments.

🔒 Are you locking your bike up correctly?

There are two essential things you need to do to properly lock your bike:
✅ Pick a proper lock
✅ Use the proper locking technique

If you have a good lock, but don’t use it properly, your bike may be gone when you return.

And if you have your locking technique perfected, but are using a cheap, easily broken lock, you may still find that your bike still is gone when you return.

And a bad lock and bad locking technique? Well, now you’re just asking for trouble.

Learn more in our complete guide about the dos and don'ts of protecting your two-wheeler. The link's in the comments.

What types of cases do we handle? 😉 We thought you'd never ask!

We handle physical injury cases ranging from significant soft tissue injuries to catastrophic brain injury, and everything in between.

Every case is different, and we will thoroughly evaluate and help you document and preserve evidence of each injury to your body.

We will also pursue your property damage or replacement claim if your bicycle was damaged or destroyed in the incident.

In some cases, there may also be emotional distress claims, such as when a person witnesses a serious injury to an immediate family member.

We handle all types of bike injury cases, including those caused by negligent automobile drivers, crashes resulting from dangerous or poorly designed or poorly maintained streets, and crashes resulting from defective bicycle components.

Want to learn more? We’re happy to discuss your situation in more detail. Call us now at (866) 835-6529 or use the form on our website for a free initial consultation.

📷 Dalen Yang

Bicycle Accident Lawyer | Bicycle Law Bicycle Law represents all cyclists. If you were involved in a bicycle crash or collision, contact our attorneys to learn how we can help you get compensation.

Let's start a bike maintenance mastermind group in the comments.

Please share: What are your best bike maintenance tips? What might newer riders need to know?

Newer folks: What questions do you have?

Let's strengthen our cycling community...happy tip-swapping!

The dreaded roundabout (aka "traffic circle"). 😬 Why do some people avoid them? When comparing roundabouts to signalized lights, various studies have found that intersections converted into roundabouts can significantly reduce the number of vehicle crashes.

However, America still has many more signalized traffic lights than other parts of the world.

Let's debunk the fear. Consider this:
🔹Roundabouts can be safer than traditional intersections because traffic flows more smoothly.
🔹In a roundabout, people are generally paying more attention and going slower.
🔹Drivers only need to give way to one direction of traffic.
🔹Waiting is not required to cross traffic for left turns in a roundabout.
🔹Signalized lights are often the home to jackrabbit starts and drivers striving to “beat the light.”

Take that into consideration the next time you're planning your bike route. Perhaps the traffic circle doesn't deserve the negative hype.

Want to learn more? Check out our full article on rider safety in roundabouts vs. intersections. The link's in the comments.

😂 Bike commuters: what's the most interesting (or strange, or funny...) thing you've seen on the way to work?

Featured safety tip: avoiding right-hook collisions.

A right hook happens when a motorist makes a right turn at an intersection into the path of travel of a bicyclist traveling in the same direction near the vehicle making the right turn.

➡️ When it’s safe, go around the left side of a car that’s turning right.

The next time you're teaching your kids about bike safety, remember to teach them about the right hook.

Want a bit more info (plus a helpful diagram)? Follow the link in the comments to our full article.

Happy 4th of July to you and yours!

What's everyone up to today? Any great rides planned for the holiday in between BBQs?

⛔ It goes without saying that when it comes to bikes (or any vehicle), risky moves can lead to injuries or legal issues.

We want to help spread awareness about the importance of avoiding getting into these situations in the first place.

Check out Bob Mionske's guide covering each of these circumstances. You'll learn what the law says, what insurance companies often do — and the chances of getting compensation in each instance.

The link's in the comments; let us know what you think.

How does a fresh adventure sound? 🚴

We have some ideas for you. "Adventure Miles" — aka, the two-wheeled expedition chronicles of attorney Miles Cooper — is a great place to start.

Miles details some jaw-dropping trips such as trekking the backside of Mt. Baldy, sightseeing near abandoned mines and missions, and cruising the service roads and byways of Mt. Shasta.

We're willing to bet you can find some top-notch inspo here!

Check out the Adventure Miles link in the comments. Let us know where you might want to check out.

As a part of our ongoing mission to change the world, two wheels at a time, we're shining the spotlight on Bicycle Generation, our charitable arm where we donate 2% of our profits each year.

We believe bicycles and e-bicycles are the best way to better our world. From reducing emissions and footprints to increasing our personal health and connectedness to our community, bikes are the key.

⏩ Check out bicyclegeneration.org for more on who we serve — and whether your project or organization may be eligible for some funds.

Heat can be devious. Dehydration-related issues can pop up when we least expect them due to the cooling sensation we get on the road.

This danger is of course more prevalent in the summer. Here are a few fast tips to help you beat the heat when riding:

1) Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that's moisture-wicking and reflects the sun.

2) Know how much water you normally consume during a ride and pay attention to your drinking. Bonus points if you know your sweat rate and can hydrate accordingly.

3) Use sun protection to the max. Think sunglasses, sunblock, a visor, etc.

4) Plan your route for shaded areas and consider riding during times of the day when it's coolest. Allow for stops in places where you can refill liquids or buy refreshments.

5) Take breaks and cool yourself in the shade or air-conditioning as needed.

😎 What other tips do you have for warm-weather rides?

Many of us who ride bikes don’t fully understand the types of insurance we need to compensate ourselves if we are injured or to protect ourselves if we injure someone else. (We get it, insurance can be... overwhelming at first.)

We've provided a simple overview of the liability insurance we think is important if you’re going to be on the road.

Hop over to the link below to explore the full read (you or someone you love will be glad you did).

🚲 Traffic. It's great to get out and enjoy the summer weather, but with that fun comes more cars and other bikes on the road, hence — more traffic hazards.

Be extra diligent these next few months. Wear bright clothing, use turn signals, and brush up on the local bicycle laws where you'll be riding.

If you need a refresher in signaling or other crucial safety information, check out the video resource in the comments.

At Bicycle Law, we live out our values and incorporate them into our daily interactions with our clients, the community, the opposition, and the firm.

We’re deeply committed to obtaining justice for injured cyclists. Flip through these six principles to see what we mean.

➡️ While you're here... save our number: 866 VELO-LAW. If you ever need us, we're here and ready to serve.

Miles Cooper and the team at Bicycle Law have tons of experience representing riders and taking insurance companies to task. They know the ins and outs of cycling cases, know what it’s like firsthand to be hurt and unable to ride, and will review your case for free.

Bicycle Law is owned and operated by Coopers LLP, which has lawyers licensed in California, Oregon, and Washington state.

😎 Happy First Day of Summer! Time to get after those sweet summertime vibes.

We want to know: what goals do you have for the summer? Hitting up some new trails? Mastering a new training routine?

Let us know below!

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⚠️ Are you all caught up on the law changes that came out for California and Oregon cyclists in 2024?

Our goal is to help you stay in the know, so here's a bit of light reading (we promise, it's not legalese) to get you up to speed — in case you missed the debut of these new laws.

Bounce over to the link in the comments and be sure to let us know your thoughts on the new rules of the road.

📷 Dalen Yang

🐶 Let's be honest: one of the last things we want to think about while riding our bikes is an encounter with an off-leash, cranky canine.

Get some peace of mind by knowing what to do in the case of an encounter with an aggressive dog.

Check out a Q&A with Bicycle Law on that exact topic (link in comments) so you can arm yourself with knowledge and then — get out there and enjoy your commute!

👋 Meet b.i.k.e., aka, Bicycles and Ideas for Kids' Empowerment.

This non-profit has been "transforming lives, one pedal stroke at a time" for almost three decades since founder, John Benenate, began the organization to help at-risk kids in the Portland area and take action against inactivity-related diseases.

b.i.k.e helps kids develop the resilience that supports them in avoiding the negative behaviors that lead to an at-risk youth becoming another negative statistic.

Learn more in the inspiring video interview with Bicycle Law's founder, Bob Mionske, and b.i.k.e.'s leaders and members. Their story is proof of the power cycling has to transform lives — especially for our youth! (Link in the comments.)

🚲 We'd love to know! In 5 words or less...what's your favorite thing about cycling?

Did you know? Doorings are one of the top injury-causing events caused when a driver or passenger opens a car door directly in front of a cyclist, causing the cyclist to crash.

Here are a few pointers to keep you safe on the road. Learn more in our article, Bike Handling: Avoiding Doorings (link in the comments!). See you on the road!

⚠️ Safety reminder from your friends at Bicycle Law: even during daylight hours, hi-viz clothing and lights can make you more noticeable to motorists.

To be clear: Cyclists have a fundamental right to use the roads, and shouldn't have to strap on flashing lights, day-glo neon, or protective armor. Yet we find that drivers are more distracted than ever — so a little conspicuity can go a long way.

Whether you're commuting, enjoying a family ride with your kids on summer vacation, or just getting out and soaking up the sunshine, it can be worth it to make yourself more visible.

Did you know that the daytime perception distance for hi-viz clothing can increase from 400 feet to 2,200 feet? The nighttime perception distance can increase from 150 feet to 560 feet.

In contrast: The nighttime perception distance for dark clothing is only 75 feet. At speeds of 60 MPH, this gives drivers less than a second to react once they first perceive the cyclist. Even at speeds of 30 MPH, drivers have less than two seconds to react once they perceive the cyclist.

As we're getting out and getting active this summer, take a moment to review what you're wearing while riding, and consider bringing lights.

Learn more helpful tips in our article, Stay Seen, Stay Safe (link in the comments!). See you on the road!

Hey! It's been a while — or maybe it hasn't and it's your first time here. Either way, it's time for a (re)introduction.

👋We're Bicycle Law: lawyers working for cyclists.

When we're not defending riders, we can be found lobbying for better infrastructure in Washington D.C. with the League of American Bicyclists or piloting cargo bikes with our kids.

Since we were founded 24 years ago by Bob Mionshke, Olympic cyclist and national champion-turned-lawyer, we've been passionate about protecting this way of life.

We know that despite our best efforts, the roads are not always cyclist-friendly. Injuries happen, whether it be by car, poor road maintenance, or defective products.

When that happens, we're ready and here to help. You can always find us here, or on our website (link in bio).

Will we see you on the road (or trail...or track...) soon?

Job alert 🚨 Coopers LLP is hiring a Marketing Coordinator. Help a growing law firm produce events like the (pictured), the Coopers’ Code podcast, and many more marketing efforts. Interested? Check the bio link to learn more and apply.

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Pastries 🥐 for 👊 puncheurs 💥

Join us for a couple steep climbs and a bunch of sweet treats. 630am at the Conservatory of Flowers for the last Thursday of the month: a city loop with Breadbelly pastries p/b Bicycle Law.

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