How to Determine Liability After a Bicycle Accident
Being involved in a bicycle accident is often a traumatizing experience. Bicyclists are extremely vulnerable to injury even if the collision occurs at low speed. With no exterior protection, a cyclist can suffer irreparable harm if they are hit by a car.
At Levin & Nalbandyan, we know the devastation that a bicycle accident can cause. Our lawyers work tirelessly to help injured parties obtain fair and full compensation after a bicycle accident. We have recovered millions on behalf of our clients and will not rest until you get the best possible outcome in your case.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles, contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Are the Leading Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycle accidents can be caused by several factors, but many are the result of negligence or wrongdoing. One of the most common ways that bicyclists are injured is because of unsafe motorists. Despite campaigns to “share the road,” many drivers fail to watch out for and yield to bicyclists causing catastrophic accidents.
The leading causes of bicycle accidents are:
- Motorist inattention or distraction
- Failure to yield
- Dangerous roads and biking trails
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Unsafe speed
- Aggressive driving
- Poor visibility
In the immediate aftermath, it is important to remember that you do not need to determine who or what caused your accident. You should not speak to other parties involved in the incident except to exchange information. Be straightforward and truthful with the police and avoid making statements regarding who was at fault.
How Common Are Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycle accidents are unfortunately common in Los Angeles and throughout the country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 938 bicyclists killed in traffic accidents in 2020, the highest in at least a decade.
Bicycle accidents can happen during any time of the day and are almost equally split between night (51%) and day (49%). The summer months, however, often prove more deadly than other times of the year with the highest number of bicycle fatalities occurring between June and September.
A vast majority of fatal bike accidents happened in urban areas and failing to yield was the most common cause. The second leading cause was the bicyclist not being visible.
What Should I Do if I Am Involved in a Bicycle Accident?
If you are involved in a bicycle accident, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you are not taken by ambulance to the hospital, you still need to be cleared by a medical professional. The true extent of your injuries may not be apparent for days or even weeks after the initial crash.
Once you are able, you should contact a Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney. An attorney can help you understand whether you should pursue a lawsuit or other legal action against a negligent party.
Injured in a Bicycle Accident? Contact Our Office.
Were you injured in a bicycle accident in LA? Contact our office at (213) 232-4848 to discuss your case with an attorney. All consultations are free and without obligation to retain our services. Call now to get started.
