Bicycling can be a fun recreational activity for many people, and for others, it's a convenient way to travel from one place to another in an urban area. As its popularity grows, so too do accommodations. Bicycling paths are a common part of community, city, and state-wide planning. Now, bicyclists can be found on and off the road just about everywhere.
The increase in bicycles, however, has been followed by an increase in bicycle accidents. When a cyclist is in an accident, whether with another cyclist, pedestrian, or motor vehicle, serious injuries can result. You may be able to recover compensation when another party is at fault. Compensation can include bodily injury, property damage, lost wages, and more. At The Law Office of Shawn Golshani | Shawn Gol Law, P.C., our bicycle accident lawyer, along with our team in California can help you develop a personal injury claim. Contact us today at (310) 900-0809 to schedule a Free Case Evaluation.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California
Bicycle accidents can happen anywhere, at any time, for any number of reasons. There are, however, certain situations that tend to lead to more bicycle accidents.
- Getting struck by a car, which is the most common cause of bicycle accidents (as well as the most deadly), according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA)
- Hitting something in the road, which is also very common and can be the result of poor road conditions, poor road maintenance, or things like debris
- Swerving to avoid a person or an animal, the animal of which may be a domestic or wild animal
- Low visibility because bicycles are small and are difficult to see, especially at certain times of the day (dusk and dawn)
Determining the cause of a bicycle accident can be a critical part to recovering fair and just compensation for your injuries. When the accident was caused by another person or entity, they can be liable for the damages you suffered if they owed you a duty of care, among other elements or factors.
For example, a car driver owes bicyclists a duty of care on the road, which typically means following the rules of the road. Pedestrians owe a duty of care to be mindful of other people in and around the roads and bike paths. When pedestrians bring their animals on walks.
Common Cyclist Injuries in Los Angeles
Injuries from bike accidents can range from scratches to death. Like any accident, the severity is dependent on the circumstances. Common injuries include:
- Facial or dental injuries
- Road rash
- Dislocated or broken bones or fractures
- Severe knee injuries, including tears of the ACL or MCL, from the impact with the car
- Severe hand and wrist injuries from the impact with the ground
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal injuries
Something unique to bicyclists are injuries caused by “dooring.” Dooring occurs when someone in a parked car opens the door without looking first. A cyclist fails to see the door open in time and collides with the door. Injuries associated with this type of accident include the above but often can also include:
- Concussions
- Whiplash
- Internal bleeding
- Internal organ damage
Wearing a helmet and other protective gear helps prevent serious injuries, but they are not enough to protect against automobiles. In worse case scenarios, wrongful death may occur.
Bicycle Accidents in California and Personal Injury Claims
A bicycle accident can leave the cyclist with severe injuries and property damage, both of which can be expensive. Insurance companies typically make a settlement offer that they claim can cover the victim's losses. However, insurance adjusters can rush to offer a settlement without a full evaluation of the injuries (and the potential ongoing care that may be required). Without a full and fair understanding of all losses, a settlement offer might be too little.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney in California Today
Bicycle accidents can produce serious injuries. If you suffered losses, it can be helpful to speak with a bicycle accident lawyer in California today. The Law Office of Shawn Golshani | Shawn Gol Law, P.C., along with our team, can help with a personal injury claim. Contact us today at (310) 900-0809 to get more information and schedule a Free Case Evaluation.