Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyers Offer Legal Support When You Need It Most
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, Arash Law can walk you through your legal options. Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers can help you seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Located in Los Angeles County, Lakewood is home to approximately 81,000 people in the current year. On the South and West borders, you will find Long Beach. To the North is Bellflower, and Cerritos is to the northeast. Nearby are also Cypress to the east and Hawaiian Gardens to the Southeast. You will find thoroughfares in Lakewood, like SR 19. The San Gabriel River Freeway (I-605) runs through the Eastern region of the city. Other notable streets include Del Amo Boulevard, Bellflower, and Carson. Our legal team at Arash Law is familiar with the challenges bicyclists encounter on these roads.
Bicycles are very common and are becoming more prevalent in Lakewood. They are an excellent way to get around. It offers exercise and is cost-effective. California is known for its weather and for being bicycle-friendly. There are also biking competitions throughout California, which bring more bicyclists from all over. These races bring thousands of bicycles, and drivers must share the road.
Despite its accessibility, cycling in Lakewood can be dangerous. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable in collisions with motor vehicles. Even minor accidents can result in severe injuries, as bicycles offer little protection compared with passenger vehicles. Riders may be thrown from their bikes, leading to additional injuries or subsequent accidents.
While cyclists have a legal right to share the road, not all drivers are attentive or cautious when sharing the road with them. Common driver errors, such as failing to check for cyclists when turning or speeding through intersections, can have catastrophic consequences. Hit-and-run incidents also pose serious risks. When drivers deliberately endanger cyclists or flee the scene, injuries can be severe or even fatal.
In 2020, there were 15 cyclists injured or killed in an accident in Lakewood. According to the IIHS, there were 932 bicycle deaths in 2020. While these statistics are concerning, they should not discourage you from cycling.
Cyclists injured in accidents may be able to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. The experienced legal team at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., understands the unique challenges faced by cyclists. Many members of the team are cyclists themselves, giving them insight into both the physical and legal risks on the road.
Arash Law can assist with a wide range of bicycle accident cases, including collisions caused by driver negligence, dangerous turns, speeding, or hit-and-run incidents. Our attorneys guide clients through the claims process, help document losses, and advocate for fair compensation.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident in Lakewood, you do not need to navigate the legal process alone. Schedule a case evaluation with Arash Law to learn how our team can help protect your rights and seek compensation under the law.
A farm worker, suffered multiple broken bones and other orthopedic injuries resulting from an auto accident where the defendant driver attempted to make a left turn in front of our client in heavy fog.– ARASH KHORSANDI
Growing Population In Lakewood And Impacts On Bicycle Accidents
Aside from the weather and local bicycle events, the growing population is another factor in bicycle accidents. As more people move into Lakewood, the roads are becoming more crowded. Recent legislation has allowed cars to pass bicycles regardless of double yellow lines. Unfortunately, many cars are speeding to pass bicyclists. Speeding can lead to collisions and serious injuries.
Regulations also make it challenging to file personal injury claims. Depending on where the accident occurs, there can be no witnesses. If you are in a remote area of Lakewood, that can also mean there aren’t any business or traffic cameras to pull footage from. Another potential disadvantage is that a responding officer’s report may not always fully capture the cyclist’s perspective. This could occur as a result of windshield bias, which is the tendency for people to view the collision from the viewpoint of the driver.
To overcome these disadvantages, it may be helpful to consult with a Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer. They can help you explore avenues for compensation, even if the at-fault party fled the scene.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
The U.S. The Department of Transportation reports that two percent of traffic accident fatalities involve bicyclists. The Fatality Analysis Reporting System collects data about collisions every year. You should also note that there has been a 36 percent increase in bicycle accident deaths since their lowest reporting year of 2010. Other notable statistics include:
- Deaths among cyclists aged 20 and older have tripled since 1975.
- In 2020, there were 932 bicyclists killed in traffic accidents.
- 35 percent of bicycle accident deaths happen at intersections.
- 18 percent of bicyclists 16 and older in 2020 had a BAC of 0.08 percent.
Prevention is a team effort. While bicyclists follow all laws and wear protective gear, drivers also have responsibilities. They must keep their distance and share the road. If they do not, it can lead to a bicycle accident. In the aftermath of a bicycle crash, it’s important to understand your rights. You may benefit from consulting with a Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer about your injury claim.
Comparison Of Bicycles And Motorcycles
Sometimes people refer to bicycles and motorcycles interchangeably. There are some similarities but also many differences. First, motorcycles are much faster than bicycles. There are also different color options available for each. Bicycles sometimes have muted tones that do not stand out in traffic, while motorcycles have brighter colors. The same goes for the laws that address both methods of transportation.
Aside from aesthetics and function, there are other differences. Motorcycles require the operator to have a license, and bicycles do not. If a person on a motorcycle receives a citation, it will impact their driving privileges. If you get a citation on a bike, it does not affect your license. For both, however, riders must adhere to the traffic laws. They must also ensure that pedestrians in crosswalks have the right-of-way.
Differences In Laws For Motorcycles and Bicycles
Since these vehicles have different structures, there are different laws for each. One rule can apply to motorcycles but not to bikes, and vice versa. One Lakewood bicycle law that applies to one and not the other is that motorcycles must ride with traffic. When passing a bicyclist, they must allow a minimum of three feet between the widest point of the vehicle and the bicycle. If there is no oncoming traffic and it is safe to do so, drivers are allowed to cross a double yellow line when passing a cyclist. Additionally, motorcycles are not permitted to use the sidewalk. They must ride on the street with other motor vehicles.
Do Bicycles Require Insurance?
Bicyclists do not require insurance to ride. Insurance requirements may come into effect when the bicycle acts like a car. If you own a car and a bike, your insurance policy may be applicable.
Sometimes you can use your car insurance after a bicycle accident in Lakewood. If the other person has insurance issues, you can tap into your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Using these benefits will be contingent on the other party’s insurance coverage, or lack thereof. If you have any challenges when seeking compensation, our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers can help.
Causes Of Lakewood Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents are highly preventable. Unfortunately, they are becoming more prevalent nationwide. Many of these accidents are the result of careless or reckless drivers. However, other factors can cause a bicycle accident. Some factors that lead to bicycle accidents include:
- Distracted Driving — Distractions are prevalent nowadays, including phone use, rubbernecking, talking to passengers, playing with the radio, and more. When a driver takes their eyes off the road for seconds, it can lead to devastation.
- Speeding — Driving at higher speeds can decrease reaction times. If a bicyclist is up ahead and the speeding driver does not see them, a collision may be inevitable.
- Driving Too Close to Bicycles — Everyone on the road must give each other space. Tailgating is an aggressive maneuver that drivers use to intimidate others. It is also dangerous because it can cause the driver to “rear-end” the bicycle.
- Driving While Intoxicated — Driving after taking drugs or drinking is intentionally reckless. It impairs the person’s cognitive abilities. Fatalities are common in drunk driving accidents.
- Turning Without Looking — When making turns, drivers must check all directions. Rushing or failing to look carefully can result in collisions with cyclists.
- Drowsy Driving — Driving while tired is similar to driving intoxicated. Lack of rest impairs reaction time and awareness, creating serious risks for cyclists and other road users.
- Running a Red Light or Stop Sign — Failing to stop completely or ignoring a red light can be dangerous for everyone on the road. Rolling stops at intersections can reduce a driver’s ability to see approaching bicyclists.
- Passing at a Crosswalk — This action should not be taken, as many people are entering and exiting crosswalks, including cyclists. Cars should pass after they leave a crosswalk.
- Failure to Yield — There are laws regarding the right of way. A driver’s failure to adhere to these laws and yield to oncoming traffic or bicycles causes collisions.
- Reckless Driving — Reckless driving encompasses aggressive maneuvers, weaving through traffic, and other willful, unsafe actions that reduce reaction time and increase the risk of accidents.
- Backing Up Without Checking — Exiting a parking space or driveway without checking your surroundings for oncoming bicyclists or pedestrians can be deadly.
- Dooring Incidents — Opening a parked car door without checking for approaching bicyclists can result in accidents.
- Driving in a Bicycle Lane — Everyone should stay in their lane. Similar to dooring accidents, when a car is in the bicycle lane, they are in the path of the bicyclists, or vice versa. Swerving into the bike lane abruptly can lead to an accident as well.
There are many potential causes of bicycle accidents. Environmental factors like rain and inclement weather can make the roads dangerous and lead to collisions. The weather can hurt visibility for drivers, leaving them unable to see cyclists. Road defects and construction sites are other factors in bicycle collisions in Lakewood. Potholes, missing guardrails, broken sidewalks, and poorly marked lanes can contribute to accidents.
The first step in your bicycle accident claim is determining the cause. Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers can investigate the cause and all contributing factors. Once we establish the cause, we can evaluate your claim and assist with pursuing compensation. Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, can help with your claim.
Common Injuries Sustained In Lakewood Bicycle Accidents
Aside from the cause of your bicycle accident, it is crucial to evaluate the injuries you suffer. Unfortunately, bicycles offer little protection, leaving riders prone to severe injuries. Some cyclists walk away with minor injuries. Protective gear can help, but injuries are still possible. Additionally, bicyclists are unique because they can suffer injuries from a collision and from a subsequent impact. Sometimes the rider will be thrown from the bike and hit the ground, or another car will hit them. Common bicycle accident injuries include:
- Skull Fractures
- Abrasions
- Mouth or Teeth Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Hand Injuries
- Road Rash
- Head And Neck Injuries
- Eye Injuries
- Concussions
- Facial Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Musculoskeletal Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Nerve Damage
- Amputation
- Internal Organ Damage
- Internal Bleeding
- Paralysis
- Death
The consequences of these injuries can impact you for weeks, months, years, or a lifetime. Regardless of severity, injuries typically require medical treatment, and you may also need time away from work to recover. If you suffer an injury, Arash Law’s bicycle accident lawyers in Lakewood can help you build a case that reflects your losses.
Who Is Responsible For A Bicycle Accident in Lakewood?
California works on fault insurance for claims. That means bicycle accident victims will need to file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. If it were the driver of a motor vehicle, you would need to contact their insurance carrier. Other parties are involved in the process if it is a commercial driver. Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer can help you identify who is at fault and which insurance carrier to contact. Additionally, the claims process can be more complex if a government agency or third party is involved.
Bicyclists’ Rights After An Accident
Bicyclists have the same general rules to follow when on the road as other vehicles. There are some specific laws that apply to cyclists that do not apply to motorists. California Vehicle Code outlines a series of these laws.
One rule for cyclists to follow is that if the lane is not wide enough to share with another vehicle, they can take the lane. Bicyclists must use the bicycle lane when there is one, except when making a left turn, passing, or approaching a right turn. Cyclists must also travel in the same direction as traffic. Helmets are required for anyone under 18 and optional for those over 18. Bicyclists are not required to follow the same hands-free cell phone regulations as drivers, but they are not allowed to wear earbuds or headphones in both ears while riding.
When an accident happens, it is essential to know your rights. If someone else’s negligence caused you harm, you may be able to pursue a legal claim. Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers at Arash Law can help you understand your rights and the legal recourse available for you.
Steps To Take After A Bicycle Accident In Lakewood
Bicycle accidents are often chaotic scenes and can be confusing. You may be unsure what to do next and what steps to take. The adrenaline may cloud your judgment, but medical care is of the utmost importance. The priority should always be to call 911 and treat your injuries. Here are some steps you can take following a bicycle accident in Lakewood:
- Get Off the Road — You must get to safety first. Get off the road so you are not in the path of a subsequent accident. Wait until the police arrive to clear the scene and redirect traffic.
- Ask the Driver to Stay on the Scene — Some drivers may try to leave the scene to avoid any consequences. If possible, ask them to remain. If they attempt to leave, try to note their license plate number and any other identifying information.
- Call the Police — When you call 911, they will send the police to assess the situation. They will then file a report based on what they find at the scene. Request a copy of this report for your bicycle accident claim.
- Get Witness Information — If anyone witnesses the accident, obtain their names and contact information. Some witnesses may leave before the police arrive, so gathering this information early is important.
- Take Photos and Videos — Photos are an essential part of accident claims. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, bicycle damage, and surroundings if possible. Take more photos than you think you need. There might be a hazard, a broken traffic signal, skid marks, or more in those photos. All of these factors can help your case. Nearby businesses may also have security cameras that recorded the accident, which your attorneys can help you obtain.
- Medical Attention — Seeking medical care has a dual purpose. It helps you heal from your injuries and creates documentation to support your claim.
- Contact Lakewood Bicycle Accident Attorneys — A prompt call to a lawyer can help with your claim. Arash Law’s Lakewood bicycle accident attorneys can help you investigate the accident, interview witnesses, gather evidence, and more. We can also handle communications with insurance companies, helping you avoid the pitfalls of the claims process.
How A Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Your Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer can help you handle the legal aspects of your claim. After a bicycle accident, you may face physical, emotional, and financial challenges. It can be burdensome to try to handle these challenges alone. You may need legal assistance from a bicycle accident lawyer in Lakewood.
Your lawyer will advocate for your legal interests after a collision with a vehicle. The compensation you may obtain through a personal injury claim can provide essential support for you and your family as you move forward from this traumatic experience. Some of the tasks your bicycle accident lawyer handles include:
- Investigate the collision.
- Collect evidence that supports your claim.
- Work with accident reconstructionists to have a clearer understanding of the crash.
- Handle communication with the insurance company.
They will take these and other steps to build your case. While you focus on your health, we can work on pursuing compensation on your behalf.
Why Choose An Arash Law Bicycle Accident Lawyer In Lakewood
The bicycle accident lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, provide a range of legal services to accident victims in the area. Here are some of the reasons to consider when choosing our attorneys:
- Our team can connect you with crash experts, doctors, investigators, and other qualified professionals. These individuals can provide insights and documentation that can support your case.
- Our firm has years of experience handling bicycle accident claims and understands the legal process involved.
- We offer a free initial consultation to review your case and explain potential next steps.
- Our Lakewood bicycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. We do not charge attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. You may still be responsible for costs regardless of the outcome. Our attorneys discuss all potential fees and costs during your free case review.
Arash Law can assist you with your personal injury claim. We review each case based on merit and individual needs. Our team knows what to look for and how to help you.
Handling Your Hit-and-Run Case
Hit-and-runs are prevalent nationwide, and in many places, they are considered felonies. Drivers and everyone who uses the road have a duty to stay at the accident scene until authorities arrive. When a driver leaves the scene, it may indicate an attempt to avoid responsibility, which can be frustrating and stressful for victims.
Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers can help explore available resources to identify the driver. Sometimes surveillance or traffic cameras capture the negligent driver. Other times, social media can be a tool for information about the driver. In the unfortunate situation that we cannot find the driver, we can review other legal options.
Our bicycle accident lawyers in Lakewood can file a claim with your insurance policy. However, it will depend on what your policy covers. In cases where the at-fault party has no insurance or is underinsured, your ability to seek compensation may depend on whether you have uninsured motorist coverage.
Bicycle Accidents Caused By Debris Or Poor Road Conditions
Dangerous road conditions are a common cause of bicycle and motorcycle accidents. When debris or poor road conditions contribute to a crash, determining fault can be complicated. In some cases, uninsured motorist coverage may apply, and a Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer can help you file a claim under your policy if you have this coverage.
Your attorney can investigate the circumstances of your accident. In some situations, a local government or third party may be responsible for maintaining the road. If their failure to address unsafe conditions contributed to your injuries, additional legal options may be available.
Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Compensation For Bicycle Accident Cases And The Value Of Your Claim
When evaluating a bicycle accident case, it is important to review the full scope of your losses. Financial compensation depends on the circumstances of your case and the evidence. Victims can pursue two major types of compensation: economic and non-economic losses. These tangible and intangible losses must be related to the crash.
When you work with a bicycle accident lawyer in Lakewood, we will list all of your losses in an insurance claim or lawsuit. Some losses are immediate and apparent, while others may develop as your case progresses. Common types of recoverable losses include:
- Medical Bills — This loss will also include any future anticipated bills. It is a tangible loss awarded for the victim’s medical costs. These losses are calculated by reviewing medical treatment and the person’s condition. With severe injuries, there are likely future medical costs to consider.
- Lost Income — Any missed time from work due to the collision is a loss. If an injury victim loses their ability to work, they may be awarded compensation for the loss of future earning capacity. These losses also include missed overtime, bonuses, and advancement opportunities. Assessment of these damages involves reviewing salary history and expected earning capacity.
- Property Damage — Destroyed property is another financial consequence of bicycle accidents. Property damage from bicycle accidents can involve helmets, personal property, the bicycle, etc. Anything on your person or bike that is damaged or destroyed must be replaced.
- Pain and Suffering — These are intangible losses that are more challenging to calculate. It involves long-term physical pain, emotional pain, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive Damages — When there is gross negligence, malice, or intentional behavior that leads to the collision, it may result in punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and are awarded only in exceptional circumstances involving extreme misconduct.
Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries, and the value of a claim is influenced by the severity of injuries, medical needs, lost income, and other factors. Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer can help assess the potential value of your claim, identify additional recoverable damages, and support you through the process of seeking fair compensation.
Bicycle accident injuries are often more severe than in other accidents. It is crucial that you have a Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer advocating for a fair settlement. We will review these and any additional damage you incur. Your case value will depend on the severity of your injuries, medical treatments, and more. The more severe your injury, the more treatment you need and the higher your potential compensation award. Speak to our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer to evaluate the value of your claim.
Contact Our Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers can manage communications with insurance companies on your behalf and guide you through the claims process. We can help you avoid the pitfalls of seeking fair compensation. Contact us at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review!
After a bicycle accident in Lakewood, California, you may be searching for answers. You may be looking for someone to advocate for your rights. During an initial consultation, we will listen to your story. We will provide information and advice on what to do next. Once we determine your case merit, we will get to work. Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers will help with the claim-filing process.
Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers serve clients in San Francisco, Riverside, Sacramento, San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sherman Oaks, and throughout California.
