Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Attorney

Cyclists in Los Angeles often face extremely frightening and dangerous risks on the road. Even seemingly low-impact accidents can result in serious injuries. At Shaffer Law, our Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer understands the specific challenges cyclists encounter and is dedicated to representing those injured in bicycle accidents.

Our legal team is aware of the risks cyclists face, and is dedicated to representing people injured in bicycle accidents of all types. This can include collisions with negligent drivers, dangerous road conditions, and any other types of cases.

About Shaffer Law: Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Shaffer Law is committed to protecting the rights of cyclists throughout Los Angeles. Our team understands the unique challenges bicycle accident victims face, from navigating medical bills to handling insurance disputes. We pride ourselves on delivering personalized legal services. We ensure every case receives the attention and care it deserves.

With a firm understanding of California’s traffic laws and a track record of success, Shaffer Law is a trusted ally for those injured in bicycle accidents. We believe in fighting for justice and fair compensation for our clients. We provide support and guidance through every stage of the legal process.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles

Bicycle accidents in Los Angeles are frequently caused by a mix of driver error, poor road conditions, and environmental variables. Cyclists are vulnerable to a variety of risks that can result in catastrophic injury. Understanding the common causes of these incidents can help you develop a strong legal case. Some of the most common causes are:

Types of Injuries Commonly Suffered in Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can cause catastrophic, life-changing injuries. Common injuries include fractured bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and severe road rash. Head injuries are especially alarming. Even wearing a helmet cannot always prevent concussions or brain trauma in high-impact crashes.

Cyclists may also suffer from internal injuries that are not immediately evident. Thus, it is critical to get medical assistance immediately. At Shaffer Law, we recognize the long-term effects these injuries can have on a cyclist’s life and fight hard to obtain compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages, and long-term care.

What to Do If You Are Injured in a Bicycle Accident

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you should seek medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Once you are safely able, you should take photos of the scene and gather information from witnesses and vehicle information from the driver. Remember to report the accident to the police and your insurance company.

Contact a knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney to discuss your legal rights. These steps are complex, but here at Shaffer Law, we’ll manage your claim from beginning to end. We can negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Understanding Your Rights as a Cyclist in California

In California, bicyclists have the same rights and duties as drivers. This means bicyclists are expected to follow all traffic laws and signals. When passing a cyclist, drivers must use the same level of care and attention as when passing any other vehicle, including stopping when signaled and keeping a safe distance.

Tragically, many drivers are unaware of bicyclists’ rights, which can result in harmful collisions. If you are a cyclist who has been hurt because of a driver’s carelessness or criminal behavior, Shaffer Law can help. Knowing your rights is the first step to properly protecting them. We are available to assist you in ensuring your rights are upheld during the legal proceedings.

How California’s Bicycle Helmet Law Affects Accident Claims

If you ride a bicycle in California and you are under 18 years old, you are required by California law to wear a helmet. There is no mandate for adults, but not wearing a helmet can impact your personal injury claim if you suffer a head injury. The defense may argue that you contributed to your injuries.

At Shaffer Law, we understand that when a helmet or the lack of helmet use contributes to a case, it can make it more complicated. We work to prove that the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence, not by your choice to not wear a helmet.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Bicycle Accident

Money cannot undo how terrible it is to lose a spouse, parent, child, or friend in a bicycle accident. No amount of financial compensation will ever adequately compensate someone for the loss of a loved one. Still, including wrongful death claims in a case against a negligent driver can help to pay for a funeral, make up for lost financial support, and compensate for some of the emotional harm survivors endure.

In California, the surviving spouse or children can make a wrongful death claim if a loved one’s life is taken because of someone else’s negligence. Surviving family members, such as parents or siblings, may also be eligible to file a claim if they are financially dependent on the deceased.

FAQs

Q: Who Is Usually at Fault If a Bicycle Is Involved in an Accident?

A: The conditions surrounding a bicycle collision determine who is at fault. Liability can be placed on the cyclist, the motorist, or even a third party, depending on the specifics of the accident. For example, a driver may be at fault for failing to yield, whereas a cyclist may be liable if they break traffic rules. At Shaffer Law, we meticulously investigate accidents to determine responsibility and hold the right party accountable.

Q: What Is the First Aid Process for a Bicycle Accident?

A: After a bicycle accident, the first priority is to check for serious injuries like head trauma, fractures, or severe bleeding. If you’re injured, call for medical assistance immediately. Apply pressure to any wounds to stop bleeding, and try to keep the injured person still until help arrives. Once you’re stabilized, it’s essential to document the accident scene and seek medical care to assess potential injuries that may not be immediately obvious.

Q: What Happens If I Get Hit on My Bicycle?

A: If you are hit while riding your bicycle, the first thing you should do is make sure you are safe and seek medical assistance for any injuries. Call the police to report the accident, and if possible, gather contact information from the driver and witnesses, as well as images of the scene. After getting medical attention, it is important to speak with a seasoned bicycle accident attorney. Shaffer Law can help you seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

Q: What Types of Damages Can I Recover After a Bicycle Accident?

A: Following a bicycle accident, you may be able to claim compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, property damage, and pain and suffering. If the driver was exceptionally careless, you may also seek punitive damages. Shaffer Law meticulously evaluates your case to help you receive the highest possible compensation for all accident-related damages.

Q: Do Cyclists Have the Same Rights as Drivers in California?

A: Yes, cyclists in California have the same rights and obligations as drivers. This encompasses both the right to use the road and the obligation to obey traffic laws. Cyclists also have some additional protections, such as the Three Feet for Safety Act. This mandates automobiles to maintain a three-foot space when passing a bicycle. Shaffer Law assists injured cyclists in defending their rights and pursuing reasonable compensation after an accident.

Contact a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you or someone you know has been hurt in a bicycle accident, Shaffer Law can help you navigate the complexities that may come along during the process of filing and fighting your case. We understand these obstacles and have the legal knowledge and acumen to develop a case that holds negligent parties accountable. No matter how challenging the case may seem, our clients can trust us to fight for them.

With our extensive experience handling bicycle accident claims, we are well-prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve. We can help you seek compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering. At Shaffer Law, we believe every client deserves empathetic, results-driven representation tailored to their unique situation.

Do not face this problem alone. Contact our experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer for a consultation. Let us assist you in protecting your rights and receiving the full justice and compensation you deserve. With our legal support, you can trust that you are getting the quality legal representation you need for your case.