Picture this: You’re cycling down Market Street, feeling the rush of the city around you. The wind in your hair, the satisfaction of beating the notorious San Francisco traffic.
Then, in an instant, everything changes. A car door opens unexpectedly, or a distracted driver swerves into the bike lane.
Suddenly, you’re faced with a reality you never imagined, injured, in pain, and unsure of what to do next.
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we’ve seen this story unfold too many times. Our San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers have helped riders rebuild after serious crashes on Market, Valencia, The Embarcadero, and throughout the city.
But here’s the thing, your story doesn’t end with the accident. It’s the beginning of your path to medical recovery and fair compensation with a local team that knows how to prove fault and maximize value.
San Francisco bicycle crashes by the numbers
San Francisco police reports show 469 injury collisions involving a person riding a bicycle in 2024 and 415 in 2023.
There were 0 bicyclist fatalities in 2023 and 3 in 2024.
Broadside and sideswipe patterns together make up 59% of SF bicycle injury crashes, and reported dooring incidents under CVC 22517 account for about 11% of cases where the cyclist is not at fault.
Source details are listed at the bottom of the page.
Understanding the Unique Challenges of San Francisco Cyclists
San Francisco’s streets are as diverse as its people. From the steep hills of Nob Hill to the bustling lanes of the Financial District, each neighborhood presents its own set of challenges for cyclists:
- Tourists unfamiliar with the city’s bike lanes
- Tech buses navigating narrow streets
- The infamous San Francisco fog reducing visibility
- Streetcar tracks that can trap bicycle wheels
We’ve represented clients injured in every corner of the city, from Golden Gate Park to the Embarcadero. If your injuries include head trauma, review our San Francisco brain injury attorney resource for next steps.
Our deep understanding of San Francisco’s cycling infrastructure and local traffic laws gives us an edge in building your case. When commercial vehicles are involved, our San Francisco truck accident lawyers and San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyers teams collaborate to prove fault and insurance coverage.
Why GJEL is Your Ideal Guide Through This Journey
- Local Expertise: Our attorneys don’t just work in San Francisco, we live and cycle here too. We know firsthand the joy and the perils of cycling in the city and we understand its High Injury Network corridors.
- Proven Track Record: With over $950 million recovered for our clients and a 99% success rate, our results speak for themselves.
- Resources to Take on Big opponents: Whether it’s a ride-sharing company, a delivery service, or a major corporation, we have the resources and experience to stand up to any opponent.
- Comprehensive Support: From dealing with insurance companies to connecting you with top medical professionals, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing.
The GJEL Approach to Bicycle Accident Cases
- In-Depth Investigation: We leave no stone unturned, examining traffic camera footage, interviewing witnesses, and reconstructing accidents when necessary.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: We use advanced tools to present your case, from 3D accident reconstructions to detailed medical imaging.
- Negotiation Expertise: Our reputation often leads to favorable settlements without going to trial, but we’re prepared to fight for you in court if necessary.
- Long-Term Vision: We don’t just look at your immediate medical bills. We consider long-term impacts on your career, lifestyle, and future medical needs. When a crash is fatal, families should also review our San Francisco wrongful death attorney and San Francisco wrongful death settlements pages.
Real Stories from the San Francisco Cycling Community
“After my accident on Valencia Street, I thought my cycling days were over. GJEL not only secured a settlement that covered all my medical bills and lost wages, but they also connected me with a support group for injured cyclists. Today, I’m back on my bike, and I have GJEL to thank for that.” – Maria S., Mission District
“When a delivery truck hit me in SoMa, I was overwhelmed with medical bills and insurance calls. GJEL took all that stress off my plate. They knew exactly how to handle my case, and I ended up with a settlement that was far beyond what I initially thought possible.” – Tom L., South Beach
Read more about our past bicycle accident verdicts and settlements here. You can also review our San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers resource for local case handling.
Your Next Steps
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in San Francisco, time is critical. In most cases you have 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit in California, and if a public entity is involved you must file a government claim within 6 months before you can sue. Evidence such as video and vehicle data can be lost quickly.
Don’t let confusion or fear slow you down. Reach out to GJEL Accident Attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us be your guide through this challenging time, fighting for your rights and your future. For collisions involving trucks or buses, review our San Francisco truck accident guidance as well.
Call us now at 415-986-4777 or visit our San Francisco office at 883 Sacramento St apt a, San Francisco, CA 94108.
Remember, as a cyclist, you have rights. As San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers, it’s our job to protect those rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Your path to recovery starts with a single call.
With a 99% success rate and over $950 million dollars recovered for our clients, we have the experience and skill to win your case. We’re passionate about fighting for the little guy and we’re ready to fight for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
Call us at (415) 986-4777 or stop by our San Francisco personal injury lawyers office to schedule your appointment.
We’re located at 883 Sacramento St apt a, San Francisco, CA 94108.
Cycling in San Francisco Can Be Dangerous
Bicycling is an enjoyable way to get around the city and stay healthy. However, accidents can happen, and when they do, you need a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer to help you navigate the legal system. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know if you have been injured in a bicycle accident.
Micromobility crashes are also rising citywide. If your collision involved a scooter, compare our pages for San Francisco scooter accidents and San Francisco electric scooter accidents to understand coverage and claim steps.
- Understanding Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents are a common occurrence in San Francisco. The most common causes of these accidents include drivers not paying attention, cyclists not following traffic laws, and dangerous road conditions. If you have been in an accident, it is important to know your rights and take appropriate action. Our what to do after San Francisco accidents guide outlines immediate steps to protect your claim.
- Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident [Hint: Call a lawyer]
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, there are several steps you should take to protect your legal rights. These steps include calling the police, seeking medical attention, documenting the accident scene, and contacting a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer. By taking these steps, you can improve your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries.
- Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident to ensure that all injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. If there is suspected TBI, consult our San Francisco brain injury attorney page.
- What to Expect When Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim
When you file a bicycle accident claim, you will be seeking compensation for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and pursue full compensation.
- How to Choose the Right Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Choosing the right bicycle accident lawyer can make the difference in the outcome of your case. Look for a lawyer with experience in bicycle accident cases, who is responsive and communicative, and who has a track record of success representing cyclists in San Francisco.
Common Types of Bike Accidents in the Bay Area
As a cyclist in San Francisco, it’s essential to understand the common types of bike accidents in the city. San Francisco is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the United States, but accidents still occur. This article will cover the most common types of bike accidents in San Francisco, the causes of these accidents, and how to avoid them. If your crash involved a heavy vehicle, review our San Francisco truck accident lawyers resource.
- Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions between bikes and cars are among the most severe accidents that can occur on San Francisco’s streets. These accidents can happen when a cyclist or a driver travels the wrong direction or a driver drifts across the center line. - Right Hook Accidents
Right hook accidents happen when a driver turns right in front of a cyclist, and the cyclist crashes into the side of the car. These often occur when a driver fails to check their blind spot before turning. - Door Collisions
A door collision happens when a cyclist crashes into a car door that has been opened unexpectedly. California law CVC 22517 prohibits opening a door into moving traffic unless it is safe and does not interfere with traffic. - Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end accidents occur when a car crashes into the back of a cyclist, often due to distraction or following too closely. - Left Cross Accidents
Left cross accidents happen when a car turns left in front of a cyclist and the cyclist impacts the vehicle. - Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents occur when a car passes a cyclist too closely, causing contact or forcing the rider into hazards. - Pothole Accidents
Potholes are a common hazard for cyclists in San Francisco. When a cyclist hits a pothole, they can lose control and crash.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents
Q: How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in San Francisco?
A: In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If a public entity like the City and County of San Francisco or SFMTA is involved, you must first file a government claim within six months.
Q: What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
A: If the driver was uninsured, you may still recover through your uninsured motorist coverage or by pursuing the at-fault party’s assets. Our San Francisco personal injury lawyers can review coverage options.
Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
A: In California, you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your recovery may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Q: How much does it cost to hire a San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer?
A: Most bicycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you do not pay upfront fees and the lawyer is paid only if you receive compensation.
Most Common Type of Bike Accidents in San Francisco
Here is a list of the most common types of bike accidents we see in the city.
- Dangerous Street Conditions. Whether it’s a pothole that should have been filled, a construction site that was not properly labeled, or obstacles in a bike lane, dangerous street conditions exist in San Francisco every day.
- Drivers Dooring Bikers. Although not intentional, door accidents happen every day in major cities. Commuters leaving cabs or rideshare vehicles can be in a hurry. Under CVC 22517, drivers and passengers must not open a door into moving traffic unless it is safe.
- Car and Truck vs. Bicycle Crashes. Sometimes drivers are distracted or careless. When a large commercial truck is involved, the injuries can be severe. See our San Francisco truck accident lawyers for investigations that include ELD and black box data.
- Micromobility conflicts. Riders on rental scooters or e-bikes can interact unpredictably with drivers and cyclists. Compare our pages on San Francisco scooter accidents and San Francisco electric scooter accidents.
Why is San Francisco Dangerous for Bikers?
Due to the confusion of San Francisco’s metropolitan areas, work zones, and distracted drivers, San Francisco can be a dangerous place to ride a bike. Our San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers regularly handle right hook, left cross, sideswipe, and dooring cases.
In addition to this, the number of public and private transportation vehicles on the roads raises risk at certain intersections. Where crashes are most frequent, we take a targeted approach to evidence collection and liability proof.
If you add rental bikes and e-scooters, you also have visitors riding in unfamiliar areas. When a collision results in a death, families should review our San Francisco fatal car accident lawyers resource for wrongful death guidance.
If You’re Injured Seek Treatment
Bicycle accidents can be serious and cause significant injuries or death. If you’re injured in a bicycle accident you should seek immediate medical attention and then call GJEL Accident Attorneys for a free case evaluation from an experienced San Francisco bicycle accident attorney. If you have symptoms of concussion or memory loss, visit our San Francisco brain injury attorney page for information on documentation and specialists.
Explore related resources for other crash types handled by our local team: San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers, San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyers, San Francisco truck accident lawyers, San Francisco truck accident, San Francisco scooter accidents, San Francisco electric scooter accidents, and San Francisco wrongful death attorney.
Sources
- SFMTA 2023‑2024 San Francisco Traffic Crashes Report (bicycle injury totals 2023 and 2024, bicyclist fatalities, collision types, dooring share, top intersections)
- California Vehicle Code 22517 (dooring)
- California Courts: Statute of limitations (2 years for most personal injury cases)
- City and County of San Francisco: Claims and claim form (6 month government claim requirement)
Reviewed by: Andrew R. Gillin, Esq., CA Bar #45226 and Luke Ellis, Esq., CA Bar #68863 • Last updated: September 8, 2025
