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If you’re searching for a bicycle accident attorney near me, our experienced legal team is here to help. We specialize in representing cyclists injured in accidents and are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve. Our bicycle accident lawyers in Glendale, CA, are well-versed in the complexities of bicycle accident claims and will confidently guide you through the legal process. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or filing a lawsuit, we’re committed to fighting for your rights.
Finding the right attorney can make all the difference in your case, especially concerning the statistics surrounding cycling accidents. According to UC Berkeley, 125 bicyclists were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in California, making up about 2.9% of all motor vehicle fatalities in the state. Additionally, the number of bicyclist fatalities has been on the rise, with 966 deaths reported nationwide. Our skilled legal team has a proven track record of helping clients recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
For a free legal consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer serving Glendale, call (818) 747-9113
Let Our Lawyers Handle Your Glendale Bicycle Accident Claim
Bicycle accidents can result from various factors, including reckless driving, defective bicycle parts, or even negligent pedestrians. If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim against the responsible parties. Consulting with an experienced bicycle accident attorney is crucial to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Whether you need a bike accident lawyer for expert legal guidance or a bike accident lawyer to fight for your case in court, we are here to help.
Babaians Law Firm handles bicycle accident attorney cases across Glendale and the surrounding areas. If you’ve been hurt in a bike accident, don’t wait; contact us today for a free initial consultation. Our team of bike accident lawyers has extensive experience in Los Angeles, Bakersfield, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside, and San Bernardino, and we are ready to assist you in securing the compensation you need for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
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Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), serious and fatal bicycle accidents have significantly risen in recent years. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help cyclists stay safer on the roads. Below are some of the most frequent factors that contribute to bicycle accidents in California:
Excessive Speed
When drivers or cyclists exceed speed limits, reaction time is reduced, and the severity of any potential accidents increases. High speeds make it difficult for cyclists and drivers to avoid collisions, especially in busy urban environments.
Speeding can also limit the ability to assess road conditions properly, such as potholes, debris, or pedestrians crossing the street. Drivers may not have enough time to react when a cyclist suddenly appears or slows down.
Distraction in Driving or Riding
Distractions, such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting in-vehicle technology, can take attention away from the road. This increases the likelihood of drivers or cyclists missing critical signals, obstacles, or changes in traffic conditions.
Additionally, cyclists who become distracted, whether by their phone or other factors, may fail to notice approaching vehicles or pedestrians. Similarly, drivers distracted by electronic devices may not notice cyclists on the road or in bike lanes, leading to dangerous situations.
Failure to Yield the Right of Way
Many accidents occur when drivers or cyclists fail to yield the right of way at intersections or crosswalks. This can lead to dangerous collisions, particularly when one party assumes they have the legal right to proceed without considering other traffic participants.
In some cases, drivers may overlook cyclists approaching an intersection, leading to a collision when the driver turns or changes lanes unexpectedly. Likewise, cyclists may mistakenly believe they have the right of way, failing to watch for vehicles or pedestrians.
Lack of Special or Protected Bike Lanes
Cyclists are at significant risk when no designated or protected bike lanes exist. Without clear separation from motor vehicles, cyclists face a greater chance of being hit by cars, especially in high-traffic areas where roads are shared with motor vehicles.
In many cities, bike lanes are either poorly marked or nonexistent, leaving cyclists to navigate through lanes meant for cars. This increases the likelihood of accidents, particularly when drivers are unaware of cyclists or fail to yield to cyclists.
Driving or Riding Too Close to Bike Lanes
When vehicles are driven too close to bike lanes or cyclists are too close to the curb, it can cause dangerous accidents. Drivers should maintain a safe distance from bike lanes to avoid clipping cyclists, while cyclists must ensure they ride safely within their designated lanes.
Additionally, vehicles that park or stop within bike lanes can force cyclists to swerve into traffic, creating a higher risk of collision with other vehicles. It’s crucial for both cyclists and drivers to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings to avoid accidents caused by improper lane usage or proximity.Â
Failure to Watch for Bicycles and Bike Riders on Sidewalks, Turns, Parking Lots, and Driveways
Motorists often overlook cyclists in sidewalks, turns, parking lots, and driveways. This failure to look out for bicycles can result in accidents when drivers or riders unexpectedly cross paths, especially when visibility is limited.
In addition to these common causes, other factors can increase the risk of being involved in a bicycle accident, such as riding or driving under the influence. Impaired vision, slowed reactions, and poor judgment while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can significantly heighten the likelihood of car accidents that involve cyclists.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents in Glendale
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-threatening. Understanding these common injuries is essential for both cyclists and drivers to take proactive steps toward safety. Below are some of the most frequent injuries sustained in bicycle accidents:
Concussion
A concussion is a serious head injury caused by a blow to the head, often leading to confusion, dizziness, and memory loss. Even with helmets, cyclists are still at risk of concussions in high-impact collisions or falls, making it important to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
Broken Bones
Broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, or collarbone, are common in bike accidents. The force of impact can easily fracture bones, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to restore function and mobility. These injuries can lead to long recovery times, requiring physical therapy and potentially leaving the cyclist unable to perform daily activities or return to work for an extended period.
Strains and Dislocations
Strains occur when muscles or tendons are overstretched or torn, while dislocations happen when bones are forced out of their normal position. Both injuries are common in cycling accidents, particularly falls or when cyclists try to break their fall with their arms.
These injuries can range from mild to severe, requiring anything from rest and physical therapy to surgery, depending on the extent of the damage. In addition to the immediate pain, strains and dislocations can lead to long-term mobility issues or complications that may affect a cyclist’s ability to ride again.
Hand Fracture
Hand fractures are particularly common due to cyclists’ instinct to break their fall by extending their hands. These fractures can range from minor to severe and often require a cast or, in more serious cases, surgical intervention.
Abrasions, or “Road Rash”
Road rash is one of the most common injuries cyclists experience when they slide along the pavement after a fall. This painful skin injury occurs when friction causes abrasions, often leading to significant discomfort and the potential for infection if not properly treated.
Depending on the severity, road rash can cause deep tissue damage, requiring cleaning, bandaging, and sometimes stitches. In more extreme cases, it may result in permanent scarring.
Dental Injuries or Fractures
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable to dental injuries in collisions, which can lead to chipped or knocked-out teeth. In some cases, these injuries may require extensive dental treatment or reconstruction to restore the appearance and function of the teeth.
Even with a helmet, cyclists are not fully protected from dental trauma, especially when they fall face-first or collide with a vehicle. Wearing a mouthguard can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries, especially in high-speed or high-risk environments.
Eye Injuries
Eye injuries can occur from debris, objects, or even the impact of a collision. These injuries can range from minor irritation to more severe conditions like corneal abrasions or eye trauma, potentially affecting a cyclist’s vision long-term.
Internal Injuries and Bleeding
Internal injuries are often hidden, making them particularly dangerous. These can include damage to organs such as the spleen, liver, or kidneys, as well as internal bleeding, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
If you are injured, it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately. Even injuries that seem minor can lead to long-term complications if left untreated.
To minimize the risk of injuries, cyclists must follow traffic rules, wear reflective clothing, signal their turns, and adhere to all safety measures and precautions. These actions can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and help ensure safer rides on California’s roads.
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Do I Need an Attorney for Bicycle Accidents in California?
If you are injured in a bicycle accident, your priority should be seeking immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away but can have serious long-term effects if left untreated.
Beyond medical care, you may have legal options to pursue compensation for your losses. A skilled bicycle accident lawyer can assess your case and determine whether you have grounds to file a claim against the responsible party. Whether the accident was caused by a negligent driver, unsafe road conditions, or a defective bicycle part, an attorney can help hold the at-fault parties accountable.
Your Glendale bicycle accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate, gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and medical records to establish negligence. Negligence can take many forms, including distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield, poorly maintained roads, or even faulty bicycle components. Identifying these factors is crucial in building a strong case.
If negligence is proven, you may be entitled to financial compensation, also known as damages, to cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress. In severe cases, where a loved one has tragically lost their life in a bicycle accident, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in California. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in California
After a bicycle accident, your health and safety should be your top priority. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Many serious injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. A prompt diagnosis ensures your well-being and provides essential medical documentation if you pursue a legal claim.
If you can, gather as much information as possible at the scene. Take photos of your injuries, your bicycle, and the accident location. Collect details about the vehicle involved, including the license plate number, make, and model. If there were witnesses, get their contact information, as their testimony can be crucial in proving liability. Additionally, check if nearby businesses or traffic cameras may have recorded the incident, especially in hit-and-run cases.
Be cautious when speaking to the driver or their insurance company. Avoid apologizing or making statements that could be misinterpreted as admitting fault; these could be used against you later. If an insurance adjuster contacts you, do not provide a statement or accept any settlement offers without consulting a lawyer first. You are not obligated to speak with the other driver’s insurance company.
For expert legal guidance, contact Babaians Law Firm today for a free initial consultation. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case, explain your legal rights, and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
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