Bicycle Accidents

Advocating for L.A. Cyclists

Biking is a healthy, green way to commute and an enjoyable form of exercise. Unfortunately, bicycling on Los Angeles’s congested roads can also be dangerous. In fact, more than 2,000 bicycle accidents occur every year in L.A. With the new bike share program launching next year, the number of bicycling traffic crashes is likely to rise.

The Rudman Law Firm, APC is an established personal injury firm that represents injured clients in Encino. Our lawyers have dedicated our more than 75 years of combined practice experience exclusively to personal injury law. We represent bicyclists injured by negligent motorists on Southern California’s roadways at the negotiating table and in the courtroom. If you were hit by an automobile, our firm can help you recover.

Proving Bicycle Accident Negligence

You are at risk of being hit every time you peddle onto the road. Motorists are supposed to share the roads, but many do not. Even at a slow speed, a car can inflict severe injuries on a bicyclist. A motorist may cause a serious accident by:

• Failing to yield right of way
• Swerving into the bike lane
• Cutting off a cyclist
• Passing the cyclist too close or tailgating
• Dooring a cyclist when parked

Recovery Options for Bicyclists

Injuries tend to be severe in accidents involving a vehicle and a bike because the bicyclist has limited protection. Head injuries, broken bones, road rash, spinal cord injuries and soft tissue injuries are common. And yet, collecting damages presents greater challenges than in a car collision.

After a thorough review of your case, our bicycle accident attorneys advise you of your options, which may include:

• The driver’s auto insurance policy if the driver was at fault for the accident
• Your uninsured/underinsured motorist policy for the amount above the driver’s policy limits or for a hit-and-run accident
• Your health insurance policy to cover medical bills
• Your bicycle insurance policy
• A lawsuit against the driver or other negligent party

California Law Affecting Bicyclists

California traffic laws govern both motorists and bicyclists. For example, under the Three Feet For Safety Act, motorists are required to give cyclists three feet of clearance when passing. The law was sponsored by the city of Los Angeles to clarify the ambiguous requirement that drivers keep a “safe distance” while passing bicyclists.

You, too, have a duty to obey the rules, including riding with traffic, signaling a turn and stopping at red lights and stop signs. Not all cities or municipalities have the same rules for bicyclists. For instance, whether it is legal to ride a bicycle on a sidewalk, varies from city to city. California does not require a bicyclist to wear a helmet, but doing so can substantially limit brain injuries should you wreck. Complying with the laws can, most importantly, minimize risks of injuries. If you were hit by a car, your compliance also helps you recover compensation. 

Consult with Our Bicycle Accident Trial Lawyers

The Rudman Law Firm, APC advocates for bicyclists injured in traffic accidents. To schedule your free claims review, call our Encino office at (818) 769-6969 or call us toll free at (844) 478-3626 / (844) 4RUDMAN. Your case is handled on contingency.