[08-08-2023] Santa Barbara County, CA – 27-Year-Old Male Cyclist Hospitalized Following Car Collision in Montecito

A 27-year-old male cyclist was hospitalized after colliding with a car in Montecito, Santa Barbara County, on Tuesday morning, August 8, 2023.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at Sycamore Canyon and Westmont Roads shortly after 11:00 a.m.

Montecito Fire Protection District personnel arrived at the scene to find the cyclist and a Toyota hatchback but could not determine the cause of the crash prior to an investigation.

The victim sustained “traumatic injuries” and was transported by AMR ambulance to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital for treatment. The Toyota driver was unharmed in the collision.

No information was released regarding the identities of the people involved.

Dedicated Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Santa Barbara County

You may be able to file a claim for damages if you are injured in a bicycle accident. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you obtain compensation for your injuries.

An experienced lawyer can provide sound advice in this challenging situation. Our legal team will contact your insurance company and update your legal documents immediately.

Our Santa Barbara County bicycle accident lawyers at Arash Law, headed by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., are aggressive advocates of defending people injured in bicycle accidents. Our firm has recovered over $750 Million for clients all over California.

To speak with one of our lawyers, call us at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After a Bicycle Accident

Bicycle safety is of paramount importance in California, where cars outnumber two-wheelers. You or a fellow rider may be involved in an accident with a motorist. Taking the right steps after an accident makes a big difference in protecting your rights or the rights of a seriously injured companion. Here’s a checklist to help you maintain control and preserve critical information:

• Dial 911. Call the police or an ambulance immediately. If you are unable to do so, ask someone to help.
• Wait for the police to arrive and file an official report. A police report provides documentation detailing the incident, including the identity of witnesses.
• Leave your bike in the same state after the crash. It is best if the police see the accident scene undisturbed.
• Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
• Seek medical attention at the scene, emergency room, hospital, or doctor’s office. When in doubt, go to the ER! Give all complaints to the doctor. Medical records prove that you were injured and document the extent of your injuries.
• Take photos of injuries and your bicycle.
• Do not negotiate with the vehicle’s driver, regardless of who may be at fault. Get the driver’s name and insurance information, along with the names of any passengers.
• Make a statement to insurance once you talk to a lawyer.
• Consult with an experienced California bicycle accident lawyer on the next appropriate steps.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Bicycle Accident Statistics

According to the National Safety Council, 932 bicycles were expected to die in motor vehicle incidents in 2020. This marks a 9% increase from 2019, when 856 cyclists were killed.

Bicycles and vehicles are most likely to collide in cities. It is common for bicyclists to be injured or killed as a result of collisions with cars. Most bicycle accidents involve a bicycle colliding with an automobile, pedestrian, or another bicycle.

In the United States, 8,988 cyclists died between 2007 and 2018. In 2018, 857 cyclists were killed, making it the deadliest year for cyclists.

Cycling has become a popular type of exercise for many Californians who are leading healthier lives. Cycling on the roads alongside cars can be extremely dangerous, and bicycle accidents can cause severe or fatal injuries. It is crucial to always be aware of your surroundings to avoid becoming a statistic.