If you’ve ever felt the rush of wind on a bike ride through Los Angeles, you know it’s exhilarating—and sometimes risky. Every year in Los Angeles, the streets buzz with thousands of cyclists sharing the road with vehicles. Each rider spins through the sunlit boulevards and shaded lanes that map our beautiful city.
Yet, amid this vibrant scene, cyclists face unexpected hazards! Being a personal injury lawyer Los Angeles, we stand as vigilant guardians for our city’s cyclists. We understand that behind every accident statistic is a personal story of disruption and recovery.
Los Angeles County, bearing the highest number of bicycle fatalities in California (one-quarter), demands more than legal expertise. That’s where we come in! Whether you’re dealing with medical issues or navigating the complexities of emotional trauma after a bicycle crash, our bike accident lawyer around Los Angeles is here to lift the burden off your shoulders.
But why choose us?
At Compass Law Group, we don’t just handle cases—we handle your petition with a tailored approach, knowing that each client’s journey is unique. We promise to guide you with precision and care, powered by our expert knowledge and commitment to restoring the rhythm of your life post-accident.
But first, it is necessary to understand everything about bike accidents and how our bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles can assist you! Let’s get started!
What is a Bicycle Accident Claim?
It’s a legal process through which a cyclist who has been injured in a bicycle accident due to the negligence of another party seeks compensation. This compensation can cover:
Economic damages
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Economic damages
Burial and funeral costs (Wrongful death)
Navigating these claims requires understanding both local traffic laws and broader personal injury law, and that’s where Compass Law Group helps!
Ride Through Los Angeles After Understanding The Risks and Causes!
Cycling in Los Angeles offers a mix of urban exploration and extreme scenic beauty. However, it comes with a set of challenges uniquely its own.
Each ride on Los Angeles roads can vary widely in experience and risk. Understanding these can greatly enhance the safety and enjoyment of every cyclist traversing the city’s diverse landscapes. Let’s start with some common causes of bicycle accidents!
The Urban Cycling Environment:
Los Angeles City is notorious for its traffic congestion, posing a significant risk to cyclists. Busy roads increase the likelihood of bike accidents in Los Angeles. So, it is best to avoid roads with inconsistent or non-existent bike lanes.
Moreover, try to stay careful at the following intersections to avoid Los Angeles bike accidents:
Hill Street and W 5th Street
Los Angeles Street and W 7th Street
Olive Street and W 7th Street
Wall Street and E 4th Street
Washington Boulevard between Figueroa Street and Main Street
Additionally, many drivers in the city are not fully aware of cyclists’ rights and the specific rules regarding bike lanes, which can lead to bicycle accidents. For instance, “dooring”—where a parked driver opens their car door without checking for approaching cyclists—is a common hazard. However, the state vehicle code prohibits motorists from opening doors on the traffic side “unless it’s reasonably safe to do so and doesn’t interfere with such traffic.”
Even though the Los Angeles administration has expanded the bikeway systems, its infrastructure has not fully caught up with the growing popularity of cycling. Still, huge gaps remain that can force cyclists into dangerous traffic conditions or onto poorly maintained roads.
This situation gradually improves as the city implements more cyclist-friendly policies and infrastructure updates, but progress is uneven and often slow. So, stay careful and look out for yourself for a while!
Visibility and Accessibility:
One of the critical factors in cycling safety is visibility. Being qualified Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyers, we understand that many accidents occur because motorists don’t see cyclists, and reports prove it. 56% of bicycle fatalities happen during dawn, dusk, or night. So, what’s the fix?
Bicycles must stay equipped with proper lighting and reflective materials. Cyclists can also increase their safety by wearing visible clothing and using bikes that are the correct size and properly adjusted.
Legal and Cultural Challenges:
Navigating the legal landscape is another challenge for many bicycle accident victims in the city of Los Angeles. California laws support cycling safety, but awareness and enforcement vary significantly. The law wants cyclists to be proactive in understanding their rights and responsibilities. It includes understanding the importance of following the same traffic laws as motorists.
Additionally, cultural attitudes towards cyclists can affect safety. So, educating drivers and cyclists can help foster a more respectful and aware road-sharing environment.
Types of Injuries and Damages Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles Deal with
The physical and financial impacts can be severe and long-lasting in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles. This section outlines common bicycle accident injuries and potential damages you might face. It ensures every bicycle accident victim is prepared to address these challenges effectively in their legal personal injury claim. In most of these cases, your experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer can assist you with these issues, and that’s where Compass Law Group comes in to assist.
Physical Injuries:
Head Injuries: Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer concussions or serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Its symptoms can range from mild dizziness and confusion to even long-term cognitive issues.
Spinal Injuries: These can vary from herniated discs to severe spinal cord damage resulting in partial or full paralysis.
Fractures and Broken Bones: Arms, legs, and ribs are commonly broken in bicycle collisions due to falls.
Soft Tissue Injuries: These include lacerations, bruises, and road rashes, which may not be life-threatening but can be painful and require some time to heal.
Internal Injuries: These are less visible but can be life-threatening, such as internal bleeding or organ damage.
Psychological Injuries:
Emotional Distress
Anxiety
Depression
Mental Anguish
PTSD
Economic Damages:
Medical Expenses: From immediate emergency care to long-term rehabilitation costs.
Lost Wages & Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently.
Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your bicycle and other personal items damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages:
Disfigurement: Scars or permanent injuries.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Injuries in a bicycle accident prevent you from engaging in hobbies, sports, and other activities you once enjoyed.
Loss of Consortium: Deprivation of the benefits of a family relationship.
Immediate Steps Post-Accident: Protecting Your Rights
When involved in a bicycle accident, the actions you take immediately afterwards are critical not only for your physical well-being but also for protecting your legal rights.
Here is a detailed guide on the steps to take immediately following an accident to ensure your safety and secure the necessary evidence for many bicycle accident claims.
1. Check for Injuries:
Immediately assess yourself and others for injuries. Prioritize medical attention by calling emergency services if serious injuries are apparent.
2. Move to Safety:
If you are injured in a bike accident, move yourself and your bicycle out of the road to prevent further accidents and injuries. Ensure you are in a safe location before proceeding with additional actions.
3. Alert Other Road Users:
Use your bike, a piece of clothing, or any available item to signal to other road users to avoid the accident scene. This can prevent additional accidents and injuries.
4. Document the Scene:
Take photographs of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, visible injuries, and overall road conditions. These photos should capture street signs, traffic signals, and any obstructions or hazards. These can later be used by your bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles to strengthen your claim.
5. Collect Information:
Exchange names, contact information, and insurance details with the other parties involved. If there are witnesses, obtain their contact information, as their accounts may be crucial later.
6. Police Report:
If the police arrive at the scene, ensure a report is filed. Obtain the officer’s name and badge number, and request a copy of the accident report for your records.
7. Seek Medical Attention:
Even if you feel fine, some injuries, like concussions, can have delayed symptoms. Besides, bicycle accidents can leave victims with severe internal injuries. So, visit a hospital or your doctor for a full medical evaluation. Documenting your visit can be crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
8. Notify Your Insurance:
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. However, be cautious about discussing faults or details over the phone; simply stick to the facts.
9. Preserve Evidence:
Keep all evidence intact, including your damaged bicycle, clothing, and gear. Do not repair your bike, as it may serve as evidence.
10. Consider Legal Consultation:
A consultation with a bicycle accident attorney can provide guidance specific to your situation. We can help protect your rights and advise you on the best steps to take for potential compensation. The best part is that we, as bicycle accident case attorneys, offer free consultations!
11. Keep a Detailed Record:
Start a journal documenting your physical and emotional recovery. Record details about your medical care, pain levels, emotional state, and how the injuries impact your daily life and work.
Important California Bicycle Laws
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend bicycle rider, understanding regulations can significantly affect how you handle the aftermath of a bicycle accident and your rights to compensation. Here’s a comprehensive overview to keep you legally pedaling in the right direction without any bicycle defects!
Road Sharing and Lane Usage
Cyclists must ride as close to the right side of the road as possible, except under conditions where they need to avoid hazards, pass another vehicle, or prepare for a left turn. Cyclists are entitled to take the full lane in lanes too narrow for a bike and a car to share.
Special rules apply to electric bikes depending on their class, affecting where they can be ridden and the required safety equipment.
Equipment and Safety Requirements
All bicycles must be equipped with functional brakes, lights for night riding, and appropriate reflectors. It is against the law to ride a defective bicycle. Handlebars should not be higher than the rider’s shoulders because it can cause a bicycle accident. Additionally, bikes must be of a size that allows the rider to stop safely and keep one foot on the ground. California Vehicle Code §21201(b), California Vehicle Code §21201(c)
Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18. While not required for adults, wearing a helmet is strongly advised to prevent bicycle injury.
Riding Under the Influence
It is illegal to operate a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, mirroring the laws for motor vehicles. Accidents caused by such factors can lead to severe penalties, including fines and bicycle impoundment. Vehicle Code § 21200.5 VC
Sidewalk Cycling and Pedestrian Areas
Bicyclists are allowed to ride on sidewalks in some California jurisdictions unless otherwise posted. However, they must always yield to pedestrians and give them the right of way .
Using Bike Lanes
Cyclists must use bike lanes when available and not be impeded by hazards or blockages.
Your Legal Journey of Navigating Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles
Assessment of the legal aftermath of a bicycle accident in Los Angeles involves understanding your rights and the various avenues available for seeking compensation. This guide outlines essential steps and considerations in the legal journey of the accident victim. But first, look at the California government’s time limits for bicycle claims.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
Understanding the nature of bicycle accidents and the statute of limitations is crucial in the legal process. In California, you generally have two years from the date of the bicycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
If you are filing a claim against a government entity, the time limit is significantly shorter—typically, you must file a government claim within six months of the incident, which is enough to recover after a bicycle accident.
Here’s a detailed table for a better analysis of the time limit to hire a bicycle accident attorney.
ClaimTimeBicycle accident injuryTwo years from the accident dateDelayed health injuriesTwo years from the discovered dateProperty damage claimThree years from the accident dateClaiming against the government6 monthsMinor (under the age of 18) injuryTwo years from their birthdayWrongful death claimTwo years from death date
Acting within these time frames is important to preserve your right to compensation. Failing to file within the statute of limitations can bar you from recovering any compensation for your injuries.
Key Steps in the Legal Process
After a bicycle accident in Los Angeles, you are entitled to seek compensation for damages that might include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Your compensation can be pursued through insurance claims or, if necessary, a personal injury lawsuit.
Legal Representation
Consider hiring an injury lawyer. An experienced bicycle accident attorney in Los Angeles can offer invaluable guidance, help navigate the complex legal landscape, and advocate to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Filing an Insurance Claim
Initiate a claim with the insurance company of the person responsible for the accident. Your Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney’s help will facilitate communications and negotiations to avoid lowball settlements. Besides, the insurance aspect helps bicycle accident lawyers navigate legal proceedings seamlessly.
Lawsuit Filing
If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached through insurance negotiations, your bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles may recommend filing a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Gathering and Presenting Evidence
Document Collection: Gather all pertinent documents substantiating your claim, including medical records, police reports, eyewitness accounts, and photographic evidence from the scene.
Expert Testimonies: Use medical experts to validate the extent of your injuries and technical experts to reconstruct the accident and demonstrate liability.
Detailed Accounting: Compile a detailed breakdown of all costs associated with your accident—from medical bills and therapy costs to lost wages and potential future earnings lost due to long-term disabilities.
Have your accident lawyer by your side at all times and take help from their experience to navigate the complexities.
Negotiating Settlements
Initial Offers: Insurance companies often offer settlements quickly after an accident. Reviewing any offer with your attorney is crucial to ensure it adequately covers all your current and future needs.
Negotiation Strategies: Your bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles can leverage the collected evidence and expert testimonies to negotiate effectively with insurers or opposing counsel to increase the settlement offer.
Going to Trial
Preparation: If negotiations fail, be prepared to take your case to trial. This includes pre-trial discovery, witness preparation, and mock trials.
Courtroom Strategy: Your bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles will present your case, aiming to show the extent of your injuries, the defendant’s liability, and the need for adequate compensation.
Jury Verdict: The trial will conclude with a jury verdict determining liability and compensation.
Has TCR (Traffic Collision Report) placed you at fault? Don’t worry! Get a professional bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles from Compass Law Group! Our expertise can help refute the TCR or prove that you were only partially at fault.
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What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Los Angeles?
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How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Los Angeles?
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Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault in the bicycle accident?
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What types of damages can I recover with the help of a bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles?
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Should I talk to the insurance company after a bicycle accident?
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What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
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How can a personal injury attorney help with my bicycle accident claim?
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What is the process for filing a bicycle accident claim?
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Can I claim emotional distress after a bicycle accident?
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How are bicycle accident settlements calculated?
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After 10 accidents and 9 attorneys, the client met Simon, who stood out for his honesty and clear communication. Years later, after another accident, the client called Simon and was impressed by his professionalism and follow-through. Simon explained everything, connected him with top doctors, and kept every promise. It was the first time the client felt truly supported—highly recommending Simon and Joseph for their integrity and dedication.
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Jacob was rear-ended by a big rig and left nearly paralyzed for a year. He found Cooper Law Group, and Joseph and Simon personally helped him through the legal process. Over two years, they ensured he got the medical care and surgeries he needed, helped repair his car, and secured the compensation he deserved. He highly recommends them for truly fighting for their clients.
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During the early days of COVID, Blandine was hit by a car while biking to work. Alone and unsure of what to do, they found Compass Law Group. Joseph was the first to respond with care and clarity. Throughout the case, the team—Joseph, Simon, and Julie—provided support, regular check-ins, and made the client feel safe and cared for. They now consider the firm like family and highly recommend them for their compassion and competence.
