Are you a cyclist in California wondering about the legality of riding against traffic? This article addresses the dangers and legal complexities, explaining how GJEL Accident Attorneys can help you pursue compensation even if you are riding on the wrong side of the road.
Learn about liability, police reports, and practical considerations in this in-depth guide. Don’t let a traffic violation deter you from seeking the justice you deserve. Read on to understand your rights and options.

California Bicycle Safety: Riding Against Traffic (GJEL Accident Attorneys)
- Dangers & Legality of Cycling on the Wrong Side of the Road.
- Injured in a Collision? We Fight for Cyclist Rights, Even If You Were Riding Against Traffic.
Read the full article for a California personal injury attorney’s in-depth explanation of the dangers and legality of riding a bike against traffic. Learn how GJEL Accident Attorneys can help you recover compensation, even if you were riding on the wrong side of the road.
The practical answer is whether you’re on the proper or improper side of the road; if you are riding safely and a vehicle is driving unsafely, we can recover for you.
The police report may ticket you for riding on the wrong side of the road, but that is only part of the story.
The other part of the story is, is that ten percent of the cause of the accident and the person who hit you ninety percent. Or is that none of the causes of the accident?
So, the practical answer is don’t give up on your case for that reason. We’ve been very successful in cases of that nature. And, let me point out, sometimes you have no choice; there’s construction on one side of the road, or there’s no way to get to the proper side of the road, and the courts consider that.
In conclusion, while California law generally dictates that cyclists should ride with the flow of traffic, the reality of urban cycling often presents situations where deviating from this rule becomes necessary.
Factors like road construction, lack of safe bike lanes, or unavoidable obstacles can force cyclists to ride against traffic. It’s crucial to understand that a police citation for this infraction doesn’t automatically absolve a negligent driver of responsibility.
The complexities of accident liability demand a thorough investigation, considering all contributing factors. GJEL Accident Attorneys specialize in navigating these nuanced cases, ensuring that injured cyclists receive fair compensation, regardless of initial perceptions.
Their experience demonstrates that even when a cyclist is riding in traffic, a successful recovery is possible if the driver’s negligence plays a significant role in the collision.
Ultimately, safety remains paramount. While recognizing the legal implications and potential dangers of riding against traffic, it’s equally important to acknowledge cyclists’ practical challenges.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in California, especially while riding in traffic, seeking expert legal counsel is essential. GJEL Accident Attorneys can provide the guidance and representation needed to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Written by Andy Gillin. Last Updated 03/10/2025