--- description: If you were injured in a bicycle accident and have questions about bike laws or a case, contact Chaikin & Sherman For A Free Consultation Today! title: Washington D.C. Bike Laws - Chaikin & Sherman --- Washington D.C. Bike Laws - Chaikin & Sherman # Washington D.C. Bike Laws Last Updated: September 3, 2024 Reading Time: 5 minutes Trusted Content Legally Reviewed by Allan Siegel Updated 2 years ago [Home](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) » [Washington DC Bicycle Accident Lawyer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/) » Washington D.C. Bike Laws What's On This Page [Case Results](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/case-results/) $3.5 Million Bicycle Crash $ 1.8 Millon Bicycle Crash $1.5 Million Bicycle Crash $1 Million Bicycle Crash [View All Practice Areas](https://chaikinandsherman.com/practice-areas/) [Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) They truly cared about me as a person. Tracy Koretsky Bicycle Accident Contact Us Today! "*" indicates required fields Name* First Last Name* Last Email** Phone*Are you a new client?*Are you a new client? *Yes, I'm a potential new client.No, I'm a current existing client.I'm neitherCase TypeCase TypeMotor Vehicle AccidentSlip & FallAssaultMedical MalpracticeAbuseWork InjuryOtherWere You at Fault?Were You At Fault?NoYesUnknownWhere Did The Incident Occur?Where Did The Incident Occur?Washington, D.C.VirginiaMarylandOtherDid The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?Did The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?YesNoShare Brief Description of the Incident* Three of the firm’s attorneys discuss bicycle accident litigation in Washington, DC — including dooring, bike lane violations, and how the District’s Vulnerable User Recovery Act allows cyclists to recover damages even when partially at fault. The firm has secured over $3.5 million for a cyclist who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a dooring incident. Video Transcript **Speakers:** Joseph Cammarata, Stephen Ollar, Allan Siegel **Allan Siegel:** Being in the District of Columbia, which is a very bicycle friendly city, we get a lot of bicycle crashes. A lot of clients who are involved in bicycle crashes reach out to us and we’ve been handling them for years. Whether or not it’s somebody driving in a bike lane and somebody makes a turn and infringes upon the bike lane, whether it’s somebody who gets “doored” by another vehicle, in other words, a driver stops and opens his door while the bicyclist is driving with the right of way. That actually is against the law in the District of Columbia. You’re required to look before you open your door or whether or not it’s just a case where a bicycle’s riding on the roadway and with the right of way and a vehicle makes a turn or rear ends them. We get a lot of them, and we’ve been handling them for many, many years and very successfully. **Stephen Ollar:** Really, when you look at the law in DC what we talk about is vulnerable riders. So it’s not just bicyclists, it’s also motorcyclists. It’s people on e-scooters, even pedestrian, all of them who are, anybody who’s not inside a four wheeled vehicle, falls under that kind of category of a vulnerable user. And so the law in that area is consistent across the board. The law now in the District Columbia, is that if you fall into that kind of category, you could be up to 50% at fault and still be able to get a recovery. You can’t be more than 50% at fault, but as long as you’re 50% or less, you’re still eligible to get a recovery. So we do a lot of those cases and providing representation for people over hurt in those categories. **Joseph Cammarata:** So it’s important to reach out to a lawyer that knows what they’re talking about that’s going to be aggressive and going to be able to establish that your fault was slight, if any, and that you have a full opportunity to receive compensation for the harms and losses that you suffered. According to the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), there has been an average of 334 [crashes involving bicyclists](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/washington-dc-statistics/) each year in Washington, D.C. To avoid a [bike accident](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/common-bike-accidents-in-washington-dc/), it is important to be aware of the bike laws in Washington. If you are injured in a bicycle accident and have questions about what laws apply to your case, contact Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. We have years of experience getting cyclists the compensation they deserve. We understand the complex laws that apply to [bicycle accidents](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/), and we are here to help you get the justice you deserve. ## Local Bicycle Laws in Washington DC Washington D.C. has a few local [bicycle laws](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/bike-laws-in-washington-dc/) that cyclists must follow: - Bicycles are not allowed on sidewalks in the central business district (defined as the area bounded by K Street N.W., 15th Street N.W., Pennsylvania Avenue N.W., and Constitution Avenue N.W.). - Cyclists must have a front light and a rear reflector when riding at night. - Cyclists are required to yield to pedestrians crossing the street in a crosswalk, regardless of whether or not the crosswalk is marked. - Cyclists can ride on sidewalks outside of the central business district but must yield to pedestrians and give them an audible signal before passing. - A bicycle lane is designed to keep cyclists safe. However, bike riders are not required to use a bike lane when provided. - A cyclist should maintain no less than 2 feet of clearance in wide lanes from the edge of the usable pavement. - Cyclists are allowed to ride between lanes in Washington D.C., as long as they are not impeding traffic. - Cyclists can pass other vehicles on the left or right side by either staying in the same lane as the motor vehicle or changing to a different lane. - Bicycles must have a bell or mechanical device that can give an audible signal at least one hundred feet. [Breaking any of these laws](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/do-bicycles-have-to-obey-traffic-laws-in-washington-dc/) can result in a fine, so it’s important to be aware of them before hitting the streets on your bike. Following the law will help keep you safe while riding and also help to make cycling in Washington D.C. a more enjoyable experience for everyone. ## Bicycle Safety in D.C. In addition to following the same [traffic laws](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/washington-dc-electric-bike-laws/) as motor vehicles, cyclists can do a few other [things to stay safe](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/bike-safety/https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/bike-safety/) while biking in D.C. - [Wear a helmet.](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/washington-dc-bike-helmet-law/) Helmets are not required for cyclists over 16, but they can help protect you from [serious injuries](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/common-injuries-from-bicycle-accidents-in-washington-dc/) if you fall or are hit by a car. - Be visible. Make sure your bike has reflectors on the front and back, and wear bright colors so drivers can see you. - Use lights at night. If you are biking after dark, make sure to have a headlight and taillight on your bike. - Stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t listen to music or use your phone while biking. - If you are [involved in a bike crash](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/10-things-to-do-after-bicycle-crash/), call the police and wait for them to arrive. Don’t move the injured person unless they are in danger. ## Do I Have to Register My Bicycle? Bicycles are not required to be registered in the district, and you cannot be pulled over for having an unregistered bike. However, registering your bike with the[ National Bike Registry](https://www.nationalbikeregistry.com) is recommended by the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) for security. ## What We Can Do For You After a Bicycle Accident The Washington, D.C. bicycle accident lawyers with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. have a proven track record of success in helping clients obtain the maximum compensation possible for [injuries](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/bike-crash-causes/) they have suffered due to the negligence of others. Our firm has consistently demonstrated we have the expertise needed to help our clients see that justice is served. We have the resources needed to conduct thorough investigations of all the circumstances contributing to a [bicycle accident](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/common-bike-accidents-in-washington-dc/), gathering the evidence needed to establish [liability and negligence. ](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/what-is-contributory-negligence/) Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. has achieved more than $500 million in verdicts and settlements, and our attorneys have more than a century of combined legal experience. Two of our partners are certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Our firm has also earned the highest AV® Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, one of the most respected attorney-ranking service organizations in the United States. [Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. attorneys](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/bikeshare-accidents/) work passionately on behalf of our clients to help them secure fair compensation – there is no type of case that is too complex for us to litigate.   ## Recovering Damages in a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit Many factors go into determining the value of your [bike accident claim.](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/how-to-claim-insurance-after-bike-accident-in-washington-dc/) These include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our attorneys have experience evaluating cases just like yours to determine what they may be worth and will work hard to get you fair compensation for your injuries. ### Comparative Fault in Washington DC for bicyclists, pedestrians, and other vulnerable users In most comparative fault systems, each driver is assigned a percentage of fault for the accident. For example, in a pure comparative negligence jurisdiction, this means that if one driver is considered 80% at fault and another 20%, then each party will pay their proportional share of damages based on those percentages (e.g., $100,000 total in losses equals an award worth $80,000 from Driver A to B since they caused more harm than anyone else). Washington, DC, has a comparative negligence statute that only applies to [bicycles, pedestrians, and other vulnerable users.](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/07/vulnerable-user-collision-recovery-act-of-2020/) Washington, DC’s law, is one of the best laws in the country. If you were a bicyclist, pedestrian, or other vulnerable user and were 50% negligent or less, **you can recover 100% of your damages. ** ### We Get You Results For more than 50 years, the Washington DC lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. have successfully represented individuals and families who have been injured or lost loved ones due to someone else’s negligence. Here is a small sample of some of our successful verdicts and settlements: - $3.5 million for a bicyclist who suffered a brain injury when a District of Columbia police officer opened his door into traffic and “doored” him. - $6 million on behalf of a man who suffered a brain injury due to a rear-end collision. - $5 million medical malpractice settlement on behalf of a 14-year-old client who suffered a severe brain injury due to a doctor’s inappropriate chemical product use. - $4.8 million on behalf of a severely injured man when his motorcycle struck a trailer being pulled by a minivan. - $4.5 million for a woman who was seriously injured in a pedestrian accident after being struck from behind by a transit bus in a crosswalk. See additional examples of our case victories and settlements on our “[Case Results](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/case-results/)” page. ## Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today If you are looking for the highest level of representation available for your bicycle accident claim, turn to Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Our firm has helped clients recover more than $500 million in compensation, and we have more than 100 years of combined experience. All of our partners are recognized by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers®, and our firm includes three past presidents of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. We work to help our clients obtain fair settlement offers to compensate them for the injuries they’ve suffered, but our attorneys are extremely well-equipped to go to trial if needed. Call (202) 659-8600 or[ contact us online](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) to get the proven [legal representation you deserve.](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2019/07/protect-your-rights-after-a-bike-accident/) [Watch Our Video Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) Get free advice about the compensation you deserve. At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your case to protect your rights. Trust us to stand by you and advocate aggressively on your behalf. Speak to a Specialist Visit Us in Person 1232 17th St NW Washington, DC 20036 The bicycle accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. represent injured cyclists across the Washington, D.C. metro area, including Virginia ([Arlington bike accident cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/arlington-va/), [Alexandria](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/alexandria/), and [Fairfax County bicycle injury claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/fairfax-va/)) and Maryland ([Silver Spring cyclist injury cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/silver-spring/)), and we also handle [Capital Bikeshare claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/washington-dc-capital-bikeshare-accident-attorney/) and [e-bike injury matters](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/bicycle-accidents/electric-bicycles/) throughout the District. Top 10 Mistakes Made After an Accident Review these common auto accident mistakes to protect your rights. READ OUR E-BOOK Meet Our Team Learn More About Us Ira Sherman Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and New York With over four decades of courtroom experience, **Ira Sherman** is a powerhouse trial lawyer who has won justice for countless victims of serious injury, discrimination, and medical malpractice. Known for his relentless advocacy, compassion, and proven results, he’s the attorney clients trust when everything is on the line. Ira Sherman's Bio Joseph Cammarata Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia A dual board-certified civil trial attorney, **Joseph Cammarata** is nationally recognized for his fierce advocacy, landmark legal victories, and relentless pursuit of justice for victims of serious injury, wrongful death, sexual assault, and civil rights violations. With wins against powerful opponents—including a historic U.S. Supreme Court case securing equal access to justice—he’s the attorney clients trust when they need skill, strength, and results that matter. Joe Cammarata's Bio Allan M. Siegel​ Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Allan M. Siegel** is a board-certified trial attorney and partner at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., known for securing justice in serious personal injury, brain injury, and wrongful death cases. Recognized as one of Washington’s *Top 100 Super Lawyers®* and a *Best Lawyer®* in America, he combines strategic precision, courtroom skill, and relentless advocacy to win full and fair compensation for his clients. Allan Siegel's Bio Stephen Ollar Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Stephen Ollar** is an award-winning trial attorney and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to holding negligent individuals and corporations accountable. Recognized as a *Super Lawyers Rising Star* from 2020–2025, he’s known for his tenacity, precision, and unwavering pursuit of justice in personal injury, auto accident, and medical malpractice cases. Stephen Ollar's Bio ## Related Articles Read More Blog Articles E-Bike Injuries How Is An E-Bike Different From a Bicycle? Washington, DC, E-Bike Accident Lawyer DC Bike Accident Attorneys Do Bicycles Have To Obey Traffic Laws In Maryland? Do Bicycles Have To Obey Traffic Laws In Virginia? Bicycle Safety Tips Silver Spring Bicycle Accident Lawyer Bicycle Accident Attorney Fairfax, VA Dangers Of Riding a Bicycle at Night Biking at Night Imagine you’re pedaling down a quiet, tree-lined street as the sun sets. 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