Bicycle Accidents: Facts Californians Should Know

Bicycle riders must keep in mind that accidents may occur anytime and almost anywhere. In California, hundreds of bicycle accidents occur each year not because of bikers themselves but because of certain irresponsible motorists.

According to statistics, about one-third of all bike accidents involve collision between a bicycle rider and an automobile. Bicycle accidents are dangerous on the part of the rider because he may not be fully protected from an impact of a motor vehicle.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Causes of California bike accidents may vary depending on particular circumstances. Commonly, the following are the main contributing factors to bicycle accidents in the State:

·         Presence of road hazards

·         Failure of motorist to notice the cyclist

·         Distracted driving

·         The driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs

·         The motorist is speeding

·         Sudden lane change

·         Defective bicycle

·         Bad weather condition

·         Unsafe turn on intersections

Tips on How to Avoid Bike Accidents in California

Just like any other forms of road accident, bicycle mishaps may be prevent by following certain safety measures, such as:

·         Wear proper bicyclist’s attire

·         Wear helmet

·         Install reflective lights on the bicycle

·         Use designated bike lanes

·         Regularly maintain the bicycle

·         Determine if the bike is in good condition before using it

·         Focus your attention to the road when riding

·         Never operate bicycling while intoxicated

Getting Legal Assistance

Bicycle accident victims must know their rights under the tort law so that they may effectively assert for their legal rights. Expert personal injury lawyers suggest the following steps for bikers who get involved in a road accident:

1. Seek medical attention.

2. Take photograph of the scene of the accident.

3. Take note of the contact information of the motorist who caused the accident.

4. Contact personal injury lawyers in order to properly assess your case.

How to File Discrimination in the Workplace Complaint in California

It is understandable that certain California employees may not know the procedures involved in filling for an employment discrimination complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). However, these days, when some California employers take hasty discriminatory employment actions, it is already a must to learn general details about pursuing a complaint with DFEH.

In California, employees’ rights against employment discrimination are protected under Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). This Act bars employers to discriminate against workers and applicants based on their race, color, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, disability, and age.

Experienced California attorneys always remind employees to learn the proper procedures in pursuing an employment discrimination complaint with DFEH. The following are the most basic steps in filing for a claim with DFEH:

1. File the complaint

Discrimination in the workplace claims must be filed within one year after the alleged discriminatory act. The complaint should include declaration of alleged discriminatory acts committed by the employer. Aggravated workers may contact DFEH’s Communication Center to properly address the claim.

2. Initial investigation                                                   

Upon receiving the complaint, DFEH representatives will conduct a preliminary investigation. During this stage, the Department will serve as an independent fact-finding body and as a mediator instead of taking side.

3. Settlement

After reviewing the claim, the Department will attempt to resolve the dispute by asking the both parties to come up with a settlement.

4. Further investigation

If no settlement is reached in the negotiation stage, DFEH will re-investigate the case. During this stage, DFEH may need to interview the respondent and witnesses, access records and documents that serve as evidence, inspect the workplace, and if needed, issue subpoenas. During this stage, it is highly recommended for complainants to get legal assistance from California attorneys to properly assert the case.