Each year in California, the number of people riding on bikes increases and so do bicycle accidents. It may involve pedestrians, vehicles (such as cars, buses, and trucks), motorcycles, and other cyclists. Even a roadway obstruction or defect may contribute largely to a bicycle accident. If you or a loved one is involved in a bicycle accident, contact the LA Injury Group for help. Our compassionate and expert Los Angeles personal injury lawyers will protect your legal rights. Contact us today at (818) 240-1800 for a FREE consultation of your case.
California is an ideal place for riding a bike when you want to go to work or just wind out. It’s eco-friendly and a great form of exercise. However, you must remember that you don’t own the road and you’re sharing the road with various drivers with different attitudes behind the wheel.
There are laws placed for bicycle riders on a regular basis. It includes whether or not you can ride on a sidewalk, carry things while riding, how to equip your bicycle for safety, and how go with the flow of traffic.
However, there are still negligent people who don’t follow traffic rules. If you encounter an accident while riding a bike, it’s best to speak with an expert Los Angeles personal injury attorney to know if you have a case.
Bicycle accidents usually occur in California due to::
Speeding. Stepping on your brakes is not enough when you know you’re going to hit a rider on his bike. You must have a fusion of thinking and distance to achieve a complete halt. Also, even if you’re only navigating the road at 20 mph, each second over the speed limit endangers safety.
Driving under the influence (DUI). A drunk driver or high on drugs has impaired vision, delayed reaction time, and other critical driving skills. This situation can result in an intoxicated driver not seeing a nearby bicycle rider. At the same time, he will not be able to respond immediately sufficiently to prevent slamming into the victim.
Opening a vehicle or “dooring.” Drivers and passengers in a vehicle parked on the street should check for oncoming traffic before opening their doors. This is called “dooring.” If this happens, the biker is thrown into the road and could be hit by incoming vehicles.
Distracted driving. Bicycle riders are less visible to motorists, especially truck drivers. If a driver is distracted, such as texting, eating, navigating an app on the phone, or talking to someone can result in a bicycle accident. Drivers weren’t able to see the victim before it was too late.
Making inappropriate right turns. Bicycles are also prone to a vehicle’s blind spots on both sides, especially large trucks. When drivers miss checking these spots before turning right, they usually collide with the bike rider who has the lawful right to proceed.
Not yielding the right of way at intersections. Drivers need to yield right of way at intersections, as well as stop signs. Sad to say that most drivers forget or ignore this rule. When bicycle riders move under their right of way, an accident follows.
Not keeping a safe distance. All drivers of small or large vehicles should keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially bicycles. This allows them to stop fast when necessary.
If you or a loved one sustained injuries from a bicycle accident, it’s just right that you seek compensation. Getting help from the LA Injury Group gives you better chances of recovering fair damages. The damages you may recover include:
These are some things that are quantifiable and have a particular dollar figure or cost. It includes:
These damages pertain to compensation for emotional and non-monetary losses. They are less substantial than economic damages and are subject to the jury’s evaluation. It includes:
The LA Injury Group understands your need for justice and financial assistance for your or your loved one’s injury or loss. Our compassionate and expert Los Angeles personal injury lawyer are always ready to help whenever and wherever you need us.
We work harder to establish a successful case and fight for your right to have a fair settlement. At the same time, we will defend you against the insurance company that will contest or deny your claim. You can count on us to be with you to guide and support you throughout the legal procedures.
Keep in touch with us by dialing (818) 240-1800 and scheduling a free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis. With the LA Injury Group, you have an edge.