Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Have you been injured in a cycling accident? Do you live or were you injured in Los Angeles? Then here’s what you need to know right now.

Los Angeles may be best known for Hollywood stars and sunny weather, but it is also a very underrated haven for cyclists. Surrounded by a diverse natural landscape and an abundance of roads and trails, Los Angeles riders have no shortage of options, from the Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail to the Rose Bowl, Griffith Park and beyond. Add in beautiful weather and you have a true mecca for dedicated cyclists.

Unfortunately, an enjoyable ride can turn into a life-shattering incident in a matter of seconds. All it takes is one collision.

What You Need to Know About Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles

A total of 455 California cyclists were killed in accidents between 2016 and 2018 — a significant increase over previous years. California is dealing with record numbers of cycling fatalities (one in five U.S. cycling deaths occur in the state), which makes Los Angeles one of the more dangerous areas in which to ride.

According to the Los Angeles Times, 21 cyclists were killed by motorists in Los Angeles in 2018. Hundreds more suffer serious injuries every year.

While local and state officials have worked to make cycling safer through their Vision Zero street safety program, it’s essential to know how to protect yourself as well. This means exercising good situational awareness, donning helmets and the required safety gear, using hand signals etc.

The sad truth, however, is that no matter how careful and conscientious you are, one mistake by a car or truck driver can leave you with devastating lifelong complications.

With that in mind, let’s discuss what you need to know if you are involved in a cycling accident.

Common Types of Bicycle Injuries

Cycling accidents are responsible for roughly 900 deaths, 23,000 hospital admissions, 580,000 emergency department visits and more than 1.2 million physician visits per year. This makes them the most common cause of injuries outside of sporting events.

Some of the most common types of cycling-related injuries include the following:

  • Leg and shoulder fractures
  • Skull fractures, concussion and brain contusions
  • Contusions, broken facial bones, dental fractures
  • Chest and rib fractures and contusions
  • Permanent scars
  • Muscle tears, strains etc.

Common Causes of Cycling Accidents

  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
  • Failing to create a large enough buffer zone
  • Weaving through traffic
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Road rage
  • Driver fatigue
  • Failing to yield.

How to React to a Cycling Accident

If you are unfortunate enough to be in a collision, it’s imperative you know what to do next. Follow these steps to ensure that you remain safe — and preserve your ability to seek legal redress:

  • Move yourself and your bike out of the road and away from harm
  • Administer first aid if needed and contact first responders
  • Ask for insurance information
  • Gather any witness contact information
  • Take photos and video of the scene, your bike and any other vehicles
  • If you are injured, keep track of any financial losses you incur from lost wages, medical treatment etc.
  • If your accident is significant, contact an attorney who specializes in such accidents

Working with an experienced attorney in the Los Angeles area should also be a top priority. Bicycle accident litigation can be quite complex, so it is important to work with a legal advocate who is dedicated to practicing in this field.

The right attorney can also help ensure that you are not taken advantage of. Navigating the insurance process can be tricky, and claims adjusters are paid to keep costs down. Experienced legal counsel can help ensure that you are fairly treated.

Why Work With Gary Brustin?

Gary Brustin is one of the most experienced and specialized bicycle lawyers in the Los Angeles region. In fact, he has handled nothing but bicycle injury cases for over twenty years. He’s also an avid cyclist.

If you need help, contact us for a fast, free consultation.

More About Gary

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  • Santa Monica, CA 90401
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