Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyers
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- Growing Population and Impacts on Bicycle Accidents
- Bicycle Accident Statistics
- Comparison of Bicycles and Motorcycles
- Causes of Lakewood Bicycle Accidents
- Common Injuries Sustained Bicycle Accidents
- Who Is Responsible for a Bicycle Accident?
- Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Lakewood
- How a Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
- Why Choose Arash Law as Your Bicycle Accident Lawyer
- The Value of Your Claim
Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyers One Call. That’s all!
Located in Los Angeles County, Lakewood is home to almost 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. Arash Law, founded by famous attorney Arash Khorsandi, Esq., is familiar with these roads and how they impact bicyclists.
The team led by Arash Khorsandi at Arash Law has avid bicyclists on the roster, so we understand the rights of bicyclists. We also know that bicycles and motorcycles are at the mercy of drivers. Many driver errors can lead to collisions. One of the most common is when a driver turns right and only looks for traffic from the left. They are not looking towards their right where cyclists can be. Sometimes they will speed up as they turn to avoid another vehicle and end up hitting bicyclists instead. No matter the cause, you must work with a Lakewood bicycle accident attorney for help.
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
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 there has been a 36 percent increase in bicycle accident deaths since their lowest reporting year of 2010. Other notable statistics include:
- Deaths for 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.
Comparison of Bicycles and Motorcycles
Differences in Laws for Motorcycles and Bicycles
Since these vehicles have different structures, there are some 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 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. When passing, motorcycles must cross a double yellow line when there is no oncoming traffic. Also, motorcycles cannot use the sidewalk. They must ride on the street with other motor vehicles.
Do Bicycles Require Insurance?
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 – When drivers pass, it decreases their reaction times. If a bicycle is up ahead, the driver does not see them and is speeding, a collision is 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, it is imperative that drivers look both ways. Sometimes they are in such a hurry that they only look one way and do not check for bicyclists.
- Drowsy driving – Driving while tired is similar to driving intoxicated. It is best to get rest before driving. When they do not, it threatens bicycles and other motorists.
- Running a red light or stop sign – Not coming to a complete stop or ignoring a red light is dangerous for everyone. Rolling stops at intersections means the driver cannot see bicyclists approaching them.
- 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 includes aggressive driving maneuvers. When weaving through traffic, the driver cannot see everything around them. Weaving in and out of traffic is reckless and doesn’t give anyone time to react. Reckless driving is any action that is willful and wanton.
- Backing up without checking – Exiting a parking space or driveway without checking your surroundings is deadly. A bicyclist or pedestrian can be coming in either direction.
- Dooring incidents – When cars park curbside, they are in the path of bicyclists. Sometimes drivers will not look when opening their doors and hit an oncoming cyclist.
- 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.
The first step in your bicycle accident claim is determining the cause. Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers will investigate the cause and all contributing factors. Once we establish the cause, we can solidify your claim and pursue compensation. Speak to Arash Law, led by famous attorney Arash Khorsandi for help with your claim today.
Common Injuries Sustained in Lakewood Bicycle Accidents
Aside from the cause of your bicycle accident, it is crucial to determine the injuries you can 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 the 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. Some bicycle accident injuries you can suffer 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
These injuries can impact you for weeks, months, years, or life. Injuries of all severities require medical treatment. You will also need time away from work. If you suffer an injury, you must speak to experienced bicycle accident lawyers in Lakewood, CA, from Arash Law, created by Arash Khorsandi, Esq.
Who Is Responsible for a Bicycle Accident in Lakewood?
Bicyclists' Rights After an Accident
When an accident happens, it is essential to know your rights. The insurance company, police, and driver will try to blame you by saying you were not following the law. If they failed to obey the law and caused you harm, they must speak for their actions. If you are unsure of your rights and the legal recourse available for you, contact Arash Law, managed and operated by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to speak to one of our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers today.
Steps to Take After 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.
- Get the driver to stay on the scene – Some drivers will try to leave the scene to avoid any consequences. If possible, try to convince them to stay. However, one way to circumvent this step is to get their information early on. If they are trying to drive away, get their plate number.
- 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. You will need this report for your bicycle accident claim.
- Get witness information – If anyone has witnessed the accident, you must get their information. Some witnesses cannot wait for the police, so getting their information is the only way to help your case in the future.
- 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 establishments can also have video cameras showing how the accident happened. We will work to collect these videos on your behalf.
- Medical attention – Seeking medical care has a dual purpose. It helps you heal from your injuries and establishes a foundation for your claim.
How a Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
- Investigate the collision.
- Collect evidence that supports your claim.
- Connect you with crash experts.
- Handle communication with the insurance company.
They will take these and other steps to build your case. While you focus on your health, we focus on your compensation recovery.
Why Choose Arash Law as Your Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Lakewood
- Our team can connect you with crash experts, top doctors, investigators, etc. These individuals will help you recover physically and help your case.
- Our Lakewood personal injury lawyers have a 98 percent success rate for settlements. We have resolved over 10,000 cases.
- Our firm has years of experience with bicycle accident claims.
- We offer free consultations to review your case and determine how to proceed.
- Our Lakewood bicycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. We do not charge you anything until we win your case.
Handling Your Hit-and-Run Case
Our bicycle accident lawyers in Lakewood can file a claim with your insurance policy. However, it will depend on what your policy covers. The critical component for filing an insurance claim is whether you have uninsured motorist coverage. It can help you recover your damages. Speak to our Lakewood hit-and-run attorney today.
Bicycle Accidents from Debris or Poor Road Conditions
Dangerous road conditions are common causes of bicycle and motorcycle accidents. Sometimes road conditions can contribute to a bicycle accident. When debris or road conditions are the cause, the fault is confusing, and uninsured motorist coverage will come into play. Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer can help you file a claim if you have this coverage.
Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
The Value of Your Claim
- 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 can be awarded a 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 – Damaged and destroyed property is another financial consequence of bicycle accidents. Property damage for 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 and 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 leading to the collision, it can garner punitive damages. These damages are awarded to injured victims. They punished the malicious party for causing the accident.
Work with Trusted Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyers Today
The bicycle accident lawyers from Arash Law Injury Attorney, founded by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., have helped injury victims get the compensation they deserve for decades. We can help you too. We can take the legal burden off your hands so you can focus on your health. Over the decades, we have recovered over $400 million for our clients. We have many resources available to help build your case.
After a bicycle accident in Lakewood, California, you deserve answers. You want someone in your corner who will fight 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. We will also negotiate with the insurance company.
Our Lakewood bicycle accident lawyers serve clients in San Francisco, Riverside, Sacramento, San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sherman Oaks, and throughout California. We have collected over $500 million for clients across the state. After a bicycle accident, contact us using our online form by calling (888) 488-1391 to request a free consultation. We will do what it takes to get justice on your behalf.