Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyers Offer Injured Victims With Committed Representation
A bicycle accident in Los Angeles can leave you injured or take the life of a loved one. Depending on the specifics of your accident, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your losses. Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyers at Arash Law can help you protect your legal rights. Call us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial case review.
Los Angeles offers cyclists an affordable, eco-friendly, and healthy way to get around. Cycling is a convenient and sustainable transportation option, especially in a city where a parking spot is tough to find. The sprawling urban landscape and sunny weather make Los Angeles a great place to ride.
However, negligent drivers, poor road conditions, and unexpected weather can create hazardous conditions for cyclists. Contact our Los Angeles bike accident attorneys for assistance if a cycling incident injures you. If someone else’s negligence caused the accident, you may be entitled to pursue compensation under the law.
Bicycle accident claims can be complicated, and liable parties may take advantage of this fact to try to reduce your claim. Experienced bicycle injury lawyers are familiar with the ins and outs of the injury claims process.
Reasons To Hire Our Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyers
If you are injured in a bicycle accident, consult with attorneys who can help you with your claim. Our experienced bike accident lawyers in Los Angeles have extensive experience handling cases of this nature. We are committed to providing dedicated legal representation to pursue reasonable compensation on your behalf.
Here’s what our bicycle accident lawyers at our Los Angeles firm can offer:
- Knowledge in Personal Injury Law — Our lawyers are knowledgeable about the law governing personal injury claims and have experience guiding clients through the legal process.
- Experience in Handling Personal Injury Cases — As an established personal injury law firm in California, we have years of experience representing injury victims. Arash Law has helped thousands of clients in pursuing personal injury claims.
- Client-Centered Care — We believe in equal access to justice. If you prefer to speak in a language other than English, let us know. We’ll make necessary adjustments to cater to your needs.
We work on a contingency fee basis, allowing injury victims to get legal representation without upfront lawyer fees. While case-related costs may arise during the case, we only receive payment for your services if we recover compensation on your behalf. Let our Los Angeles bike accident attorneys handle your case. We can help you seek compensation for your medical bills and lost wages.
Settlement in a bicycle versus taxi cab company accident; client suffered lower leg injuries.– Judd Ross Allen
Why Hire Our Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Hiring our Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyers to handle your claim can be beneficial for your case. We work diligently to pursue compensation that reflects your losses and other damages.
Insurance companies often prioritize their bottom line, offering quick settlements that may not fully cover medical bills, lost wages, or future expenses. Without legal representation, accident victims might accept lowball offers without realizing the true value of their claims. Our skilled bicycle accident attorneys can guide you through the complexities of your case. Here’s how our experienced bike injury attorneys in Los Angeles can help with your case:
Evaluate Your Case
Los Angeles bike accident lawyers aim to compensate you for all your losses, including lost wages (past and future), diminished earning capacity, and pain and suffering. To build your case, we work with professionals to help calculate these often-disputed damages accurately.
Preserve Evidence After An Accident
Evidence in personal injury cases can disappear quickly. We can help by contacting witnesses, identifying key evidence (even some you might overlook), and utilizing court orders (such as subpoenas) to preserve and obtain crucial information, including surveillance footage and witness testimony.
Help Prove Who Was At Fault For The Accident
Insurance companies often deny liability or claim shared fault to reduce payouts. Proving liability is complex, so hiring a Los Angeles injury law firm can be helpful. Call an experienced bicycle accident attorney in Los Angeles to assist you in determining who’s responsible for your injuries.
Protect Your Rights To Fair Compensation
There are many types of compensation available to bike accident victims. The general rule is that the at-fault individual must compensate for all losses that result from their negligence. Examples include property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
It is important to work with an experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer who knows all the different types of compensation for which you may be eligible. We can also handle all insurance-related communication and will advise you on how to protect your information.
Connect You With Qualified Doctors
Medical costs after a bike accident can be overwhelming, even with insurance. Many providers require upfront payment, which can be difficult. Our Los Angeles bike accident attorneys may be able to connect you with doctors who work on a lien basis, deferring payment until your settlement. Don’t delay treatment due to cost concerns, as this can worsen injuries and jeopardize your claim.
Help Manage Crucial Deadlines
The statute of limitations sets a strict deadline for filing a lawsuit. In California, victims must file a case within two years after the date of the accident or the date they discovered their injuries. Once the deadline passes, you can no longer legally pursue the claim, regardless of its validity or potential merits. The insurance company will have no obligation to pay you anything.
Take note that the deadline may vary based on the specific details of your case. For example, if you are suing a government entity, you must file a notice within six months. The deadline may also be tolled or paused in cases where the claimant is physically or mentally incapacitated or is a minor.
Our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers are committed to helping you meet the filing deadline for your case. Our team guides you through complicated legal paperwork and filing requirements.
How Much Do Bike Accident Lawyers Charge In Los Angeles?
Being involved in a bicycle accident that was not your fault can be overwhelming. You may be considering hiring a lawyer. A common question we receive is, “How much does hiring a bike accident lawyer near me cost?”
Our attorneys have extensive experience with California bike law and only charge on a contingency basis. Here are five things you should know about hiring a lawyer on a contingency basis:
- The attorney does not charge any upfront fees for the first consultation.
- A lawyer only receives payment if they successfully secure compensation on your behalf.
- In the event that the lawyer fails to win your case, you won’t have to pay them.
- A lawyer will receive a percentage if they win a settlement or an award for you.
- Small additional fees may be deducted from your settlement for your case, such as costs for:
- Medical records
- Postal charges
- Printing or copying
- Investigating officers
- Accident reports
- Filing the case
Regardless of the outcome of your case, certain case costs may be incurred during the claims process. You can ask about these additional expenses during the consultation. They can also explain how they handle these costs.
Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents
Poor lighting is one of the main causes of bike accidents, with 48.9% of bicycle-related traffic fatalities occurring in the dark. Inadequate lighting is also one of the key factors mentioned in a study conducted by BikeLA, a non-profit organization. They found that 54% of the 26 fatal bicycle crashes in 2022 occurred at night, which they attributed to poor lighting conditions. They also investigated other factors associated with bicyclist deaths in Los Angeles County, including:
- High-Speed Limits — Roadways in Los Angeles with higher speed limits than 35 mph see many cyclist fatalities. Riders are at greater risk when sharing the road with fast-moving motor vehicles, which result in limited driver visibility, reduced reaction time, and increased crash severity.
- Lack of Bike Lanes — Around 85% of bicycle accident fatalities occurred on streets without bike lanes. The absence of dedicated biking paths leaves cyclists less protected from motor vehicles, forcing them to navigate dangerous conditions.
- Multi-Lane Roads — Roads with multiple lanes, often three or more, are also dangerous for cyclists. The majority (77%) of bicycle fatalities in Los Angeles County took place on these multi-lane roads. Such roads are typically designed for higher motor vehicle capacity and speed, creating a hostile environment for cyclists.
Given LA’s car-centric nature, a significant overhaul of infrastructure and driving culture is necessary to improve biking safety. Our Los Angeles bike accident lawyers handle cases involving serious injuries and fatalities. We are committed to representing victims and helping them pursue the compensation to support their recovery.
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Other Factors Contributing To Bike Accidents
Several other factors contribute to bike accidents, including:
- Failure to Yield — Many motorists are unaware of right-of-way laws. When a driver turns into a cyclist’s path or fails to yield at an intersection, collisions can happen.
- Traffic Congestion — A high volume of motorists makes it more challenging to navigate roads. There is less room to maneuver safely, and cyclists may have to ride dangerously close to vehicles. An accident can happen if a car tries to overtake a bicycle recklessly, sideswipes it, or throws the rider off balance.
- Drinking and Driving — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that alcohol was involved in 37% of fatal pedal cyclist accidents in 2022. Drunk driving is dangerous and illegal. Alcohol impairs the driver’s cognitive abilities, increasing the likelihood of driver errors and risk-taking behaviors.
- Defective Equipment — Malfunctioning brakes, broken chains, or faulty tires could lead to accidents. These issues may arise from poor maintenance or inherent product defects.
- Dangerous Road Conditions — Bicycles are less equipped to handle road hazards like potholes, large puddles, and wet surfaces. Even minor pavement irregularities can cause the rider to lose control and fall.
- Bad Weather — Cyclists are less protected from the effects of inclement weather, leading to rain-related accidents. High winds can also knock them off course, potentially putting them in the path of an oncoming vehicle, pedestrians, or other cyclists.
Our Los Angeles bike accident lawyers have represented many injured victims over the decades. We will investigate your accident thoroughly to uncover the causes. We can help determine liability and prove the other party’s negligence.
How Our Lawyers Prove Fault And Negligence In Bicycle Accidents
For settlement to be possible, bike accident attorneys in Los Angeles must prove the other parties’ liability by establishing negligence, which involves four key elements:
- Duty of Care — Cyclists, drivers, and pedestrians all have a duty of care to others on the road. They must act in a way that avoids harm to others. For example, cyclists and drivers must obey traffic laws, use signals, and focus on the road.
- Breach of Duty of Care — Next, it must be proved that the other party was at fault. Many bike accidents result from the driver’s breach of duty, such as driving while distracted or running a red light.
- Causation — The mere act of breaching a duty of care is not enough to prove fault. Additionally, it must be proven that the person’s actions led to damage or injury.
- Damages — Additionally, damages must be proven as a result of the accident, such as medical and hospital bills, prescription medication, property repairs or replacement, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The at-fault party doesn’t have to compensate you if you did not incur any losses from the accident.
Crucial Evidence For Proving Liability After A Bicycle Accident
To prove the at-fault party’s negligence, our Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyers will present key evidence. These may include:
- Medical Records And Treatment Plans — Your medical records can demonstrate the severity of your injury and its link to the accident, while your doctor’s notes can show what treatments you need.
- Photos And Videos of The Accident — Visual evidence can help illustrate the events leading to the accident and the aftermath, leaving little room for misunderstandings. Our bicycle accident attorneys in Los Angeles can obtain supporting evidence, including CCTV recordings from nearby establishments, media files from witnesses, and dashcam footage from passing vehicles.
- Eyewitness Testimonies — Witnesses can support your story, provide valuable testimony about the accident, and help establish the other party’s liability. Some might have observed something that the involved parties and even the police didn’t notice.
- Professional Opinions — Various experts can provide testimony and crucial documents supporting your claim. Accident reconstructionists can show how the incident occurred, while medical professionals can testify about the effects and specifics of your injuries.
Potentially Liable Parties In Bicycle Accidents
Each bicycle crash is unique, so determining fault depends on the specific circumstances. A driver, cyclist, pedestrian, or anyone else may be negligent if their actions or inaction contributed to the crash.
Our bike accident lawyers in Los Angeles have dealt with cases involving other liable parties:
- Cities Or Local Governments — Some bicycle accidents occur due to road hazards like potholes, raised pavements, non-functioning street lights, or dangerous intersections. The government may be liable for failing to maintain roads or implement safety measures.
- Bicycle Part Manufacturers — Under product liability laws, manufacturers must ensure their products are safe for users. They may be liable if a defective part, such as a malfunctioning brake handle or a flawed bike chain, causes a bike accident.
- Other Third Parties — Any individual or entity contributing to the accident, directly or indirectly, can be held responsible. This could include a dog owner who lets their pet run loose or a store owner who places an illegal sign on the sidewalk.
In some cases, more than one party may be responsible for an accident. Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, you may be able to seek compensation from each of them. Their share will depend on their degree of fault. Our Los Angeles bike accident lawyers will investigate thoroughly to help pursue accountability from potentially liable parties.
Types Of Compensation Bike Accident Victims May Be Entitled To
Bicycle riders are very vulnerable to motor vehicle crashes. They often suffer serious injuries because they have little protection. Common injuries include head trauma, fractures, and internal injuries. Recovering from these injuries can take a long time and be complicated. It often requires medical treatment, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy for anxiety or depression that can affect their daily lives and responsibilities. Let our Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyers handle the legal issues so you can focus on recovery.
The general rule is that the negligent party pays for losses resulting from their actions. These include:
Economic Damages
These damages refer to financial losses that are quantifiable and easier to calculate. They include:
- Medical Bills — This covers all accident-related medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Future Medical Expenses — Compensation should also cover anticipated future medical costs, especially for permanent injuries requiring long-term care or multiple surgeries.
- Property Damages — The negligent party must pay to repair or replace damaged personal property, such as your bicycle and helmet.
- Lost Wages — You may be able to seek lost income while recovering from your injuries, as well as compensation for reduced future earning capacity due to any resulting disability.
Non-Economic Damages
These non-monetary damages are subjective and harder to calculate. They include:
- Pain & Suffering — This often forms a significant part of a personal injury award, compensating for the physical pain caused by your injuries.
- Reduced Quality of Life — If disabilities significantly impact your lifestyle, you may be able to pursue compensation based on the facts of your claim.
- Disfigurement — Scarring, amputations, and other permanent changes to your appearance are compensable.
- Loss of Consortium — These damages are awarded to the injured person’s spouse or family to cover the loss of companionship, support, and affection.
Our experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyers can help identify and calculate the types of compensation to which you may be eligible to seek under the law. Contact us for a free initial consultation. We can visit you if you are unable to come to us.
What To Do After Sustaining Injuries In A Bike Accident
Knowing what to do following a bicycle accident can help protect your rights and your well-being. The following checklist can help you maintain control and preserve important information:
- Check For Injuries — Check if you’re able to move your arms and legs without any pain. Try standing up slowly and seeing how you feel. Do not try to stand up if you have broken bones; call for help to get an ambulance. It is common for adrenaline to spike after any accident. See a doctor right away, even if your injuries are minor. Record symptoms for several days and take photos of injuries.
- Contact The Authorities — Legally, you and the other driver must stay at the scene if there are injuries or damage to property. It might be hard to track down the driver once you leave the scene. Wait for the paramedics and police to arrive, even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt. The police will also take your statement and create a report. Note the accident report number for future reference.
- Gather Driver And Witness Information — Exchange information with the motorist, including their name, address, phone number, license plate, car make, and insurance policy number. If there are any, write down the names and phone numbers of the witnesses.
- Collect Evidence — Take notes and pictures of the accident, including where, when, and how it occurred, as well as road conditions, traffic, and weather. If possible, take a picture of the scene, the injuries, and the vehicle(s) involved. Do not throw away evidence. If you have damaged clothing, don’t wash it. Don’t get your bike repaired if it is damaged.
- Do Not Negotiate With The Driver — Even if the driver apologizes and accepts blame, don’t negotiate. It’s possible you didn’t realize how bad your injuries were and how much damage your bike had. There’s also a chance that the driver might change their mind and deny involvement.
- Never Settle With Insurance Companies Without A Lawyer — You might get a call from the driver’s insurance company before you have all the information you need. Direct negotiations with insurance companies aren’t a good idea. Anything you say could be used against you later. You can hire our bicycle accident lawyers in Los Angeles to investigate the accident. They can represent you in negotiations and litigation if needed.
April 2019: $14M settlement in a traumatic brain injury case involving a defective piece of equipment at a factory.– Brian Beecher
Bicycle Accident Statistics
Many California cities continue to struggle with traffic problems. In a busy urban environment like Los Angeles, bicycles are an excellent alternative to other modes of transportation. One reason is the ease of navigating through crowded areas and congested streets. Thanks to various initiatives by the local government and cycling organizations, more and more bike lanes are opening up throughout LA. However, bicycle safety in Los Angeles is still far from being acceptable. Bicycle accidents continue to cause serious injuries and fatalities among Angelenos every year.
In a 2016 Benchmarking Report, the Alliance for Biking and Walking reported that California is ranked fourth in the United States for bicycle commuters. Eight years later, in 2024, People for Bikes gave Los Angeles a 25 out of 100 network rating. This is well below the nationwide average of 28. This suggests that the city still needs to make significant progress in enhancing the ease and comfort of the cycling community.
For fatalities, the NHTSA reported that California ranked first in 2013 with 141 pedal cyclist deaths. By 2022, the number had increased to 177 pedal cyclist fatalities.
Los Angeles County has the highest rate of bicycle fatalities due to traffic crashes within the state. UC Berkeley’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) recorded 34 cases in 2023, which accounted for 21.7% of the total bike fatalities in California.
Our Los Angeles bike accident lawyers are committed to advocating for cyclist safety. We provide legal representation to injured victims, helping them pursue compensation based on the severity of their injuries.
In 2022, there were 1,360 cyclist deaths in the country. Notably, around 928 (68%) of these fatalities involved motor vehicle crashes. These alarming statistics emphasize the significant risks that bicycle riders encounter on the roads daily.
If someone you care about has unfortunately passed away in a bicycle-related crash, contact our bike accident attorneys in Los Angeles. We also handle wrongful death claims, helping those left behind pursue justice for their departed loved ones.
Questions Victims Frequently Ask Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers In Los Angeles (FAQs)
If you’ve sustained injuries in a bike crash, you likely have many questions about your rights, the legal process, and how to seek compensation that covers your injuries and other losses. Our bicycle accident attorneys have helped numerous cyclists in Los Angeles navigate their claims. If you don’t see your question here, call us at (888) 488-1391. We’re ready to help.
What Is The Most Common Bike Accident In LA?
We analyzed the data from the SWITRS tool to review the common factors involved in bicycle accidents in Los Angeles. In 2023, the most common type of bike crash was a broadside collision, accounting for 884 (47.42%) of total cases. This type of accident commonly occurs at intersections where a vehicle strikes the side of a cyclist. Broadside accidents often happen due to drivers failing to yield the right of way, not seeing cyclists, or misjudging their speed.
How Safe Is Biking In LA?
Biking in Los Angeles remains a significant challenge, with much room for improvement in terms of safety. The city’s bicycle network is incomplete and fragmented, making it dangerous for cyclists to navigate. Unprotected bike lanes often end unexpectedly and vanish into roadways, forcing cyclists to merge into motor vehicle lanes, which increases the risk of accidents.
What Is The Main Cause Of Bicycle Accidents?
The main cause of bicycle accidents is the lack of proper biking infrastructure. Inadequate bike lanes, poorly designed intersections, and unprotected cycling paths create hazardous conditions for cyclists. Additionally, driver negligence and a lack of respect for cyclists’ rights significantly contribute to the problem.
What Time Of Day Do Most Bicycle Accidents Happen In LA?
We also analyzed when bike accidents often occur in Los Angeles using the SWITRS tool. According to the provisional 2023 data, around 503 crashes happened between 3 p.m. and 5:59 p.m. The hours between 6 p.m. and 8:59 p.m. also saw many bicycle accidents, totaling 337.
Most bike crashes occurred on a weekday, with an average of 282.4, peaking at 335 accidents on Wednesday. For comparison, 224 and 228 cases happened on Saturdays and Sundays, respectively.
Can I File A Claim If I Was Attacked Or Obstructed By A Dog While Riding?
If you are involved in an accident caused by the dog’s owner or caretaker, you may be able to file a claim against them. Your claim will be stronger if they violate leash laws, contributing to the accident. Another example is if the owner is distracted or inattentive while their dog blocks the path, causing you to crash. Such scenarios indicate a lack of proper control over the dog, further strengthening your claim for damages.
What Should I Do If A Hit-And-Run Driver Struck Me?
Our hit-and-run accident lawyers recommend keeping a mental note of any identifying information about the vehicle involved. If there are witnesses, ask if they have any additional details and request their contact information for future reference.
If you suffer injuries in an accident, call the police immediately or file a report at your local police station. Then, reach out to a law firm focusing on these cases. For instance, if a motorcyclist hits you, you can contact our hit-and-run motorcycle accident lawyers who have experience handling bicycle crashes. We can help you navigate the legal process and pursue any compensation you may be entitled to, depending on the specifics of your case.
What Happens When Multiple Parties Share The Blame For My Bike Accident?
Both parties involved in an accident may share the blame. In this case, comparative negligence might apply. Depending on the weight of their actions, either party might be able to pursue damages. For instance, an injured cyclist can seek 70% of their damages if they were found to be 30% at fault.
Experienced Los Angeles bike accident lawyers can improve your chances of a favorable outcome. They work diligently to achieve positive results for injured riders. Hiring skilled legal counsel can help protect your rights to fair compensation.
How Soon Should I Meet With A Lawyer Following My Bike Accident?
After a crash, you might be wondering, “I need a personal injury lawyer, but when should I meet with one?” Consulting a bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles after the crash can be beneficial for your claim. We can assist with important tasks, such as gathering key pieces of evidence and witness testimony to support your claim.
How Much Is My Bicycle Accident Claim Worth?
The value of your bike accident claim will vary based on the following factors:
- The nature and extent of your injuries.
- Your current and future medical costs.
- Lost income due to missing work.
- Permanent disabilities and disfigurement.
- Your physical and emotional suffering as a result of your injuries.
- Available insurance policy limits.
For assistance in assessing the value of your case, contact our bike accident lawyers in Los Angeles. We will thoroughly review your accident to determine a fair compensation amount based on the specific circumstances of your case.
Does My Automotive Insurance Protect Me While Cycling?
In California, your auto insurance may cover your bicycle accident if the following criteria exist:
- You have uninsured motorist coverage in your car insurance policy.
- An uninsured driver hit you.
If the at-fault motorist has insurance, you can file a claim with their provider. Insurance matters can get complicated, so it’s important to seek professional guidance. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles, our law firm can review your case for free to determine if you have a viable claim.
Will My Bicycle Accident Case Go To Trial?
Not all personal injury cases, including bicycle accident claims, go to court. Even if you file a lawsuit, it does not necessarily mean the case will reach trial. Both sides can still negotiate and settle out of court before the trial date.
Many of the cases our Los Angeles bike accident lawyers handle settle through negotiations. Trials are typically our last resort, and we only recommend them if pursuing litigation is the only option left to achieve your goals and meet your specific needs.
Can I Sue A Motorist Who Didn’t Directly Hit Me, But Their Actions Still Caused Me To Crash And Become Injured?
Direct impact isn’t necessary to prove the other party’s negligence. Any action or inaction on their part that contributed to the bicycle accident can expose them to liability. If a motorist’s reckless actions, like driving too close to the bicycle, cause the rider to crash, they can be held responsible for the ensuing damages.
However, the challenging part is proving what happened. Attorneys focusing on bike accident cases in Los Angeles can help you establish liability and pursue just compensation.
How Long Will My Los Angeles Bike Accident Claim Take?
Several factors can affect how long it takes to resolve a bicycle accident personal injury case. Gathering evidence that can strengthen your case, such as police reports, medical records, and witness accounts, might take weeks or months.
Negotiations with insurers can start after collecting evidence and building your case. Settling may take a few weeks or months, but insurance companies sometimes try to minimize their payout, thereby prolonging the process. Your case may take a year or more if it goes to court.
The trial, from discovery and depositions to pre-trial motions, requires careful preparation. Working with bike accident lawyers in Los Angeles can prevent unnecessary delays.
Call Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers In Los Angeles
Every year, thousands of American cyclists are injured in serious bicycle accidents. Numerous residents have been injured, disabled, and killed in various traffic incidents caused by negligent individuals and entities. Our bicycle accident lawyers are here to advocate for your rights.
The experienced bicycle accident lawyers at Arash Law have decades of combined experience. We have served thousands of injured victims residing in San Francisco, Riverside, San Jose, San Diego, Sacramento, Sherman Oaks, and throughout California.
Call (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule your free initial consultation with our dedicated Los Angeles bicycle accident attorneys. We work hard for injury victims and properly handle bicycle-car accident insurance claims.
Our car accident lawyers can handle commercial vehicle accidents, head-on collisions, T-bone crashes, rideshare incidents involving Lyft and Uber vehicles, truck crashes, pedestrian accidents, and more. We also help victims of wildfires, premises liability cases, dog bites, and apartment accidents, among others.
