Los Angeles isn’t the most bike-friendly city, but many cyclists have found their ways. The scenic coastline and diverse seaside neighborhoods make bicycling in the Los Angeles area a unique experience. But it can also be dangerous. If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles, turn to a lawyer at Steinger, Greene, & Feiner. Our attorneys are on-call and ready to help you pursue your bicycle accident claim.
Bicycling in a city built for cars comes with huge risks, and unfortunately, may result in an accident. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 130,000 bicyclists are injured every year in the United States—and nearly 1,000 pass away.
Why You Need a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Understanding the legalities of bicycle accidents is confusing for anyone. Most people want to settle their claim early, which is understandable, but you’ll probably recover far less than you deserve.
A seasoned bicycle accident lawyer helps guide you through legal processes and handles all insurance-related paperwork and negotiations. This way, we focus on what matters most—recovering your deserved compensation so you can get back to normalcy.
Understanding Bicycle Laws in Los Angeles
Just like vehicles, bicycles have laws. And just like motorists, bicyclists are not allowed to ride while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Sections 21200 through 21212 of the California Vehicle Code states important bicycle laws such as:
- A bicycle must be equipped with a brake which allows the operator to make one brake wheel skid on dry, level, clean pavement.
- All bicyclists must use reflectors when cycling at night. These reflectors include a red reflector on the rear, a white or yellow reflector on each pedal, and a lamp emitting a white light visible from a distance of 300 feet.
- A bicyclist pedaling less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction must ride as close as possible to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
- No person shall drive a motor vehicle in the bicycle lane unless the driver is parking in a designated space, entering or leaving a roadway, or preparing to turn.
In addition, it’s helpful for bicyclists to review the rules of the road for riding safely.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles
The most common cause of bicyclist accidents is motor vehicles. Often, motorists either don’t see bicyclists riding their way or they fail to abide by California’s bicycle laws. Ask any bicyclist and they’ll tell you about a time when a motorist failed to respect their right of way.
Additional common causes of bicycle accidents in Los Angeles include:
- Speeding
- Poor visibility
- Poorly-marked lanes
- Bad road conditions
- Non-compliance with bicycle laws
- Reckless or distracted driving
- Poor separation of motor vehicles from bike lanes
Collisions at intersections, left turns, right-hand turns, and collisions with open vehicle doors are among the most common ways bicyclists may collide with a motor vehicle. Of these collisions, injuries like bone fractures, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and internal organ damage are observed.
Sadly, roughly two percent of bicycle accidents result in death.
What To Do After a Bicycle Accident
The steps you take following a bicycle accident depend on how injured you are. If you’re knocked unconscious or unable to move, a bystander will have to carry out the steps below. However, if you can move, you’ll want to protect yourself by:
1. Seeking Medical Care
It’s impossible to understand the extent of your injuries without medical intervention. Even the smallest injuries can lead to major health issues. Protect yourself by seeking medical care immediately after a bicycle injury.
2. Contacting Emergency Service
Don’t wait to call law enforcement. Calling the police is an important step. Once the police show up, an officer will create an official report. This report will serve as an essential document when pursuing and building your bicycle accident case.
3. Documenting the Accident
Pictures speak volumes. Take photographs of the accident using your cell phone camera and gather any surveillance footage if possible. You should also collect contact and insurance information from the driver including the phone numbers of witnesses.
4. Watching What You’re Saying
Anything you say after a bicycle accident can be held against you. Yes, this includes apologizing or admitting fault. Even a simple “I’m sorry” could thwart your entire case. Don’t say anything that could jeopardize your bicycle claim and refrain from posting anything on social media until the case is closed.
5. Contacting a Lawyer
One of the smartest things to do after a bicycle accident is to contact an experienced lawyer. The attorneys at Steinger, Greene, & Feiner help recover all of the damages you suffered. We’ll represent you and take your case to court if needed.
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims
You have a right to compensation as a bicycle accident victim. Bicycle accidents often lead to major injuries that require ongoing medical treatment which can impact the ability to work.
Steinger, Greene, & Feiner help you recover compensation for economic and non-economic losses, such as:
Lost Wages and Income
If your injuries have prevented you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the wages and income you have lost. This includes not only the wages you have already missed out on but also any future earning capacity that has been affected by your bicycle accident injuries.
Past and Future Medical Expenses
Bicycle accidents often result in serious injuries. Steinger, Greene, & Feiner’s lawyers help you recover compensation for current medical expenses, as well as any future medical treatment you may need. These include surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and physical therapy treatment.
Pain and Suffering
The pain and suffering following a bicycle accident is physically and emotionally distressing—and you deserve to be compensated for it. Our lawyers help you pursue compensation for the pain and suffering you have experienced, as well as for any ongoing pain and discomfort you may experience in the future.
Home or Vehicle Modifications
Sometimes bicycle injuries may result in long-term disabilities that require home or vehicle modifications. Our lawyers help you adjust to your new circumstances by helping you recover your maximum compensation amount.
Loss of Consortium
Injuries may be so severe that they impact your relationship with your spouse or partner. If your injuries have impacted your relationship, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium.
Emotional Damage
Bicycle accidents can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Steinger, Greene, & Feiner help you seek compensation for the emotional damage you have suffered as a result of the bicycle accident.
Who Is Responsible For Paying My Losses?
If a driver hits you while on your bicycle, it is the driver’s responsibility to pay for your losses.
California is an at-fault state, which means you must have documentation and other crucial pieces of information that prove the driver was in the wrong. When the fault is proven, the negligent driver’s insurance will cover the victim’s losses.
That being said, everyone involved in the accident must file a claim with their insurance.
Choosing the Right Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer
You don’t want just any lawyer representing your case. That’s why it pays to hire the right lawyer for your bicycle accident. Look for a lawyer who has ample experience in handling bicycle accident cases and knows California laws inside and out.
There’s a reason why we’re the bicycle accident attorney Los Angeles residents can trust. Since 1997, Steinger, Greene, & Feiner Personal Injury Lawyers have been helping bicycle accident victims across the Los Angeles area. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay us a cent unless we win your case.
With a proven track record under our belts, we have helped injury victims recover millions of dollars in settlements. Just take a look at what our past clients have to say.
Kind Words From Our Clients
“Went above and beyond. Life-changing experience. Worked with another lawyer and they were inept. These guys were with me all the way and got me the max I deserve. Outstanding caring people. I can’t thank them enough.” — Joe Davis
“Excellent professional service with a lot of knowledge. All my questions were answered; without a doubt, I recommend this firm.” — Sebastian Castellon
“Anytime I think of a law firm to represent me it will be them. As for my lawyers and the paralegals who have assisted me in my case, it became more like family!! I love how they want to see you do good outside of just being their client and I love that about them.” — Nicole Vucinac
FAQs on Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Claims
How long should I wait until I consider a settlement?
Don’t rush into settling too early. If you settle too early, you could miss out on compensation. This is due to important factors like upcoming and ongoing medical treatments which are often overlooked. You should, however, consult the help of a bicycle accident attorney to determine your maximum amount of damages.
Who will pay my medical expenses?
Our lawyers work with your medical professionals who will assess the extent of your injuries and estimate current, future, or ongoing medical treatments. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate insurance claims to ensure your medical bills are paid and appropriately addressed.
Will I be compensated for lost earnings?
Yes, you may be entitled to compensation for lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from working. Lost wages are a significant component of many bicycle accident claims. An attorney from Steinger, Greene, & Feiner will assess the impact of your injuries on your ability to work and pursue compensation for both current and future lost earnings.
What is the estimated value of my case?
Each case is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer can review the details of your case and provide an estimate dependent on factors like medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Talk With a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries and significant financial losses. At Steinger, Greene, & Feiner Personal Injury Lawyers, we have the experience and dedication to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Don’t be left with huge bills. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced bicycle accident lawyers. We’ll take on your case, answer your questions, and guide you to make informed decisions about your legal options.