Cycling and the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) is a popular activity in Los Angeles, offering a healthy, eco-friendly, and enjoyable way to explore the city. From the bike paths of Griffith Park to the bustling lanes near Venice Beach and the urban routes in Downtown LA, bicyclists and e-bike riders are a frequent sight. However, with increasing traffic and distracted drivers, these cyclists and e-bike users are often at risk of severe accidents. The increasing popularity of e-bikes, with their higher speeds and different handling characteristics, introduces new factors to consider in accident scenarios.
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATIONLos Angeles Bicycle Accident Guide
- Why Choose Legal Fighters for Your Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Claim
- How Common Are Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles, CA?
- Do I Have a Bicycle Accident Case in Los Angeles?
- What Duty Do Motorists Owe to Bicyclists?
- Responsibilities of Bicyclists
- What if I’m Partly to Blame for My Injuries?
- Should I Accept the First Offer From the Insurance Company?
- Compensation Available to Bicycle Accident Victims in Los Angeles
- Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Claim FAQs
- Contact the Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Legal Fighters Today
Why Choose Legal Fighters for Your Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Claim
At Legal Fighters, we know how devastating a Los Angeles bicycle accident can be for a victim and their family. From the physical pain of injuries to mounting medical bills and lost wages, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Here’s how we stand out from the crowd when it comes to bicycle accident claims in Los Angeles:
- Proven Record of Success: Having recovered over $2.5 billion in compensation for our clients, we’ve shown time and again that we’re fighters. One of our most notable achievements, a verdict of $1.8 billion, demonstrates our ability to secure life-changing results.
- Strategic Partnerships for Better Outcomes: We partner with the most elite attorneys and experts across the country to strengthen your case. By combining resources with top professionals, we ensure no stone is left unturned in pursuit of justice for you.
- Compassionate Advocacy: We understand that a bicycle accident is one of the most traumatic experiences you may face. That’s why we prioritize empathy in everything we do, treating you with respect and care while fiercely advocating for your rights.
Call our team of experienced legal professionals today so we can start building your case. With Legal Fighters as your partner, your road to recovery begins with confidence and determination.
How Common Are Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles, CA?
Bicycling is celebrated across California for its benefits, but unfortunately, this popularity comes with risks. Statistics reveal the harsh reality cyclists face on the roads:
- Nationwide Bicycle Accident Statistics: According to the latest statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), ), 966 cyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents across the U.S. last year. Thousands more suffered injuries ranging from minor scrapes to life-altering trauma.
- California-Specific Data: California is one of the most dangerous states for cyclists, with nearly 125 bicyclist fatalities recorded annually. Many of these accidents occur in urban areas like Los Angeles, where heavy traffic, driver distractions, and roadway hazards combine to create dangerous conditions.
The consequences of these accidents can be catastrophic, often resulting in serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and even wrongful death. These injuries may require extensive, costly medical care and long-term rehabilitation, leading to financial strain for victims and their families.
If you or a loved one has been affected by such an accident, it’s crucial to act quickly. A Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney can guide you through this challenging time and help you seek compensation for your injuries.
Do I Have a Bicycle Accident Case in Los Angeles?
Not every bicycle accident automatically qualifies for a personal injury lawsuit. Most cases are based on negligence, which means that someone failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in your injuries. To have a successful claim, four elements must be proven:
- Duty of Care: Motorists owe a duty of care to bicyclists, which means they are expected to operate their vehicles responsibly.
- Breach of Duty: When a driver acts negligently—by texting while driving, running a red light, or failing to yield—they breach that duty of care.
- Causation: You must show that the driver’s breach directly caused your accident and injuries. For example, if a car drifted into the bike lane and struck you, this would likely satisfy causation requirements.
- Damages: Finally, you must demonstrate that you suffered actual damages, whether they’re financial (like medical bills or lost wages) or non-economic (like pain and suffering).
Gathering evidence to meet these criteria can be complex, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. Legal Fighters has the resources and skills to investigate your case thoroughly, gather the necessary evidence, and build a strong claim on your behalf.
What Duty Do Motorists Owe to Bicyclists?
California law recognizes bicyclists as legitimate road users, which means drivers have a legal obligation to share the road safely. Here are some of the key laws drivers must follow to protect bicyclists:
- Three-Foot Passing Law: Motorists must maintain at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist. Failing to do so endangers cyclists and can result in serious accidents.
- Yielding Right-of-Way: Drivers must yield to bicyclists at intersections and other areas where cyclists have the right-of-way.
- Avoiding Bike Lanes: Vehicles are strictly prohibited from driving or parking in designated bike lanes.
Unfortunately, not all drivers abide by these rules. Their negligence can put bicyclists at risk of sideswipes, rear-end collisions, and other serious accidents.
Responsibilities of Bicyclists
It’s not just motorists who have duties on the road—cyclists also have responsibilities. Under California law, bicyclists are required to:
- Obey all traffic signals and signs
- Ride with the flow of traffic
- Use bike lanes where available (or stay as close to the right curb as practical)
- Equip their bicycles with a front light and rear reflector when riding at night
By following these laws, bicyclists reduce their chances of being involved in an accident and strengthen their position in the unfortunate event of a collision.
What if I’m Partly to Blame for My Injuries?
It’s not uncommon for bicycle accidents to involve shared fault between a cyclist and a driver. Drivers often bear primary responsibility, but cyclists may contribute in various ways, such as failing to obey traffic signals, riding against traffic, or not using proper lighting or reflectors at night. If you believe you were partly responsible for the accident, don’t assume that you’re ineligible for compensation.
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means your level of fault is taken into account but does not bar you from pursuing a claim. For example, if you’re found to be 25% at fault for the crash, you can still recover 75% of the total damages awarded. This nuanced system ensures that you can still seek justice, even if mistakes might have been made. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer can help you navigate this process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Should I Accept the First Offer From the Insurance Company?
When an insurance company makes you an offer soon after a bicycle accident, it can be tempting to accept the payout—especially when medical bills and lost wages start piling up. However, their offer is often far less than what you truly deserve. Insurance companies are notorious for using tactics to minimize payouts, such as suggesting you were at fault for the accident, downplaying the severity of your injuries, or pressuring you into a quick settlement before you have time to evaluate your damages fully.
For this reason, it’s crucial to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer before agreeing to any settlement. A skilled attorney will review the offer to ensure it reflects the true extent of your losses, both financial and emotional. At Legal Fighters, we will negotiate fiercely with the insurance company on your behalf so you’re not left shortchanged during an already challenging time.
Compensation Available to Bicycle Accident Victims in Los Angeles
The physical, emotional, and financial consequences of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. That’s why accident victims can pursue compensation to cover various losses. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to recover the following damages:
- Medical Expenses – This includes emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Income – Compensation for income you’ve lost due to being unable to work, as well as potential earnings impacted by long-term injuries.
- Pain and Suffering – For the emotional distress and physical pain caused by the accident.
- Property Damage – To repair or replace your bicycle and any other personal items damaged in the crash.
- Wrongful Death Damages – If you’re pursuing a case on behalf of a loved one who died in a bicycle accident, you may claim compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
Legal compensation is a way to safeguard your future and provide financial stability during a challenging and uncertain time. Working with Legal Fighters ensures no area of compensation is overlooked.
Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Claim FAQs
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding bicycle accident claims:
How much does a personal injury attorney cost for a bicycle accident case?
At Legal Fighters, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything upfront. Instead, we only get paid attorney’s fees if we secure compensation for you. This arrangement allows anyone, regardless of financial situation, to access skilled legal representation without worrying about additional financial strain.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident lawsuit in Los Angeles?
California’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you don’t file your claim within this time frame, you will likely be unable to recover compensation for your injuries. However, certain exceptions may apply, so it’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
What if my accident involved a hit-and-run driver?
If a hit-and-run driver caused your accident, you still have options. You may be able to file a claim through your own auto insurance policy if you carry uninsured motorist coverage. A lawyer can help you explore other potential avenues for compensation and hold accountable parties responsible.
What evidence should I gather after a bicycle accident?
The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be. Gathering photos or videos of the accident scene, witness contact information, medical records, and a police report can all help support your claim. If you’re unable to collect this evidence due to your injuries, our attorneys can step in and conduct a thorough investigation on your behalf.
Are e-bikes treated differently than traditional bicycles in accident cases?
While the basic traffic laws apply to both, e-bikes introduce unique factors such as speed capabilities and usage in different environments (like shared-use paths). These factors will be considered when determining liability and assessing damages. It's crucial to have legal representation experienced with e-bike accident cases.
Do I need to go to court for my bicycle accident case?
Many personal injury cases are resolved through settlements without the need for a trial. However, if an insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can take the case to court to fight for your rights. Legal Fighters will guide you every step of the way, whether in negotiations or the courtroom, to ensure the best possible outcome.
Contact the Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Legal Fighters Today
When you’re dealing with bicycle accident injuries, having the right advocate on your side can make all the difference. Here’s how the experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorneys at Legal Fighters can help you through this difficult time:
- Investigate your accident to identify liable parties and gather evidence.
- Handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies.
- Help calculate the full extent of your damages, including future costs.
- Provide compassionate, personalized support every step of the way.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact us today at (800) 210-0000 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Whether your accident occurred in Venice Beach, Griffith Park, or another part of Los Angeles, whether you were riding a traditional bicycle or an e-bike, our legal team is ready to fight for your rights.