Did you recently get hurt in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles? If so, your path to recovery will likely involve more than just healing from physical injuries. It could also mean managing medical expenses, making up for lost household income, and holding those at fault for the accident accountable. These challenges might seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone.
The Shamsi Law Firm, APC mission is to be the voice for and champion the rights of accident victims like you. Having successfully reclaimed tens of millions of dollars for accident victims, Sean Shamsi’s track record speaks for itself. But beyond numbers, Sean’s approach is rooted in personal connections. He has the experience and the diligence to protect your rights, stand up to insurance companies that attempt to bully you, and demand the money you deserve.
Reach out today to discuss your case with a Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer in a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Are the California Bicycle Laws?
Navigating California’s roads as a bicyclist requires skill, awareness, and a thorough understanding of the rules governing two-wheeled travel. Here are the laws you need to know:
- General Rights and Rules – Bicyclists are subject to the same rights and responsibilities as drivers on the road, except regarding laws that cannot apply to cyclists by nature.
- Riding Under the Influence – Cyclists may not ride while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Bicycle Equipment – Bicycles need brakes strong enough to skid on dry pavement. Their handlebars shouldn’t be so high that riders have to raise their hands above their shoulders. Bicycles should be the right size for riders, allowing them to stop, stand with one foot on the ground, and start pedaling safely.
- Bicycle Lights – For nighttime riding, bikes must have a white light in front, a red reflector or light at the back, and reflectors on pedals and sides.
- Road Position – Bicyclists riding slower than traffic should stay close to the right edge or curb of the road. However, cyclists can move onto the road when overtaking, preparing for a left turn, avoiding hazards, or approaching a right turn. On one-way roads with multiple lanes, cyclists can ride near the left-hand curb.
- Bicycle Lanes – If there’s a bike lane, slow-riding bicyclists should use it but can move out for specific reasons like passing or turning. They should also signal before leaving the lane. Motorists should never drive or park in bike lanes, with few exceptions.
- Other Rules – Bicyclists shouldn’t attach themselves or their bikes to vehicles on the road. They must always sit on permanent seats unless their bikes are specifically designed without them. Passengers must have their own seats, including special seats for young or lightweight passengers. Bicyclists must always keep at least one hand on their handlebars and avoid carrying anything that stops them from doing so while riding. Lastly, cyclists shouldn’t leave their bikes blocking sidewalks.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles
Bicycling comes with a unique set of challenges and risks. Any of the following factors could contribute to a Los Angeles bicycle accident:
- Distracted Driving – Many bicycle accidents involve drivers who are distracted by texting or other activities, leading to slower reaction times and a lack of awareness of their surroundings.
- Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, debris, uneven surfaces, and a lack of proper bicycle lanes can make roads hazardous for cyclists, increasing the probability of accidents.
- Limited Visibility – Poor lighting conditions, especially during nighttime or inclement weather, can limit visibility, making it harder for drivers to notice and react to cyclists on the road.
- Doorings – When occupants of parked vehicles open their doors without checking for approaching cyclists, it can result in a serious collision called a dooring accident.
- Improper Turning – Accidents often occur when drivers make turns without noticing or yielding to cyclists, especially at intersections where multiple traffic streams cross.
- Speeding – Motorists traveling at higher speeds have less time to react to unexpected situations and require longer distances to stop, increasing their risk of collisions with cyclists.
What to Do After a Bike Accident
Being involved in a bicycle accident can be distressing and disorienting, but it’s important to remain calm and take certain steps to protect your rights. Here’s what you can do to keep yourself safe and secure your legal right to recovery if you get hurt in a bicycle accident:
- Have a healthcare professional diagnose, treat, and document your condition.
- Adhere strictly to your doctor’s recommendations and treatment plan to aid your recovery.
- Maintain a daily journal documenting your recovery progress, pain levels, and limitations.
- Collect names, contact information, and statements from any witnesses present.
- Obtain the driver’s contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration.
- Take photographs or videos of the accident site, your injuries, and any relevant road signs.
- Keep damaged clothing and your damaged bicycle as evidence without repairing them.
- Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible.
- Be cautious about your statements and avoid accepting liability or admitting guilt.
- Request a copy of the accident report from the responding law enforcement agency.
- Keep detailed records of all injury-related medical treatments, prescriptions, and expenses.
- Consult a knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney to discuss your rights and legal options.
- Get detailed repair estimates for your damaged bicycle and any other damaged property.
- Avoid discussing the accident, your injuries, or your overall well-being on social media sites.
- Save records of all correspondence with insurance companies and other relevant parties.
