Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyers

In a collision between a bicycle and a motor vehicle, the vehicle always wins. Bicyclists are what the law calls “vulnerable road users,” or those at the highest risk of injury in an accident. Even with bicycle helmets, bicyclists can sustain serious and life-threatening injuries in collisions with vehicles. Common bike accident injuries include broken bones, road rash, head and brain injuries, crush injuries, and internal organ damage. If you or someone you love was recently involved in a bicycle accident in California, call the Law Offices of Jake D. Finkel, APC. We have experience representing clients in these scenarios.

Bicyclist Rights and Responsibilities

California law classifies bicycles as vehicles. Therefore, bicyclists must behave as they would when driving a motor vehicle. They must obey roadway rules, including stopping at red lights and riding in the same direction as traffic. Bicycles also have the same rights as other vehicles. They have a right to ride in the roadway when there is no bike lane, and to ride two abreast in a single lane. Motorists often disregard the rights of bicyclists, and ride too closely or try to pass them when it is unsafe to do so. This leads to serious injuries and deaths.

Statistics show that California leads the nation in the number of bicycling crash deaths per year. The majority of these crashes occur in urban areas, where cars and bicycles interact most often. Cars striking bicycles is the number one cause of bicyclist injuries and deaths throughout the state. In many of these cases, the driver failed to yield the right of way, didn’t check for bikes before pulling out, ran a stop sign or red light, or wasn’t paying attention while driving. Texting and driving, drunk driving, and careless driving can all lead to a bicycle collision. Sadly, motor vehicle drivers often escape unscathed while the bicyclist suffers catastrophic or even fatal injuries.

As a bicyclist in California, you must use prudence and common sense while navigating the roadways. Do not assume cars will stop for you or yield the right of way. Practice defensive cycling to help reduce your risk of a collision.

Still, it is not always possible to avoid a crash when a driver is acting negligently or recklessly. After an accident, don’t wait to speak to an attorney. No matter what the extent of your injuries, you deserve to discuss your eligibility for compensation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. You can likely recover for your medical bills, pain and suffering, property damage, and more.

Hit and Run Bicycle Accidents

Many drivers that strike bicyclists illegally flee the scene. They may realize that they were at fault for driving under the influence, texting and driving, or otherwise failing to pay attention, and might panic or try to avoid liability. If you were the victim of a hit-and-run bicycle accident, you have options. While finding the perpetrator is unlikely, you may have uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance that can cover your medical expenses and property damage.

After a hit-and-run, gather information from any eyewitnesses. Their statements may help investigators identify the person who struck your bike and hold him/her responsible for damages. File a police report immediately. They have resources that can help track down the driver. Even if they cannot, your insurance company likely requires a police report. Seek medical attention for your injuries right away. As soon as you’re able, call your auto insurance company and find out if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance. If you do, your claim can end there.

In the event of any type of bicycle accident, speak to The Finkel Firm about your possible options. Call (213) 787-7411 or contact us online.