What if the driver who caused my bicycle accident is not the registered owner of the vehicle?

If you were hit by a driver who is not the registered owner of the vehicle in a bicycle accident in California, you may still be able to pursue compensation for damages caused by the crash. Generally speaking, the registered owner of the vehicle is not necessarily liable for the crash, but the person who was actually driving will still be liable for the crash. The legal theory in California is known as "negligence per se," which holds the driver of the vehicle legally responsible for their negligent actions that led to the accident and any resulting injuries or damages. If the driver who caused your bicycle accident was not the registered owner of the vehicle, you may be able to make a claim against the driver’s auto insurance for compensation for the damages. For example, if the registered owner of the vehicle was a friend or a family member of the driver, you may be able to file a claim against the owner’s auto insurance policy. Additionally, if the driver was operating the vehicle with the permission of the owner, then the owner’s auto insurance policy will likely cover the incident as well. Regardless of the driver or the registered owner, if you were injured in a bicycle accident in California, you may be entitled to compensation for damages. To ensure that you receive all of the compensation that you are entitled to, it is important for you to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer who can explain your legal rights and help you file a claim against the responsible party.

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