Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Torrance, CA

WHAT IS MY CASE WORTH?

"*" indicates required fields

Have You Suffered an Injury in a Bicycle Accident?

If you’ve recently been in a bike accident, please take a moment to review the bike accident checklist we’ve prepared. You can also reach out to our attorneys by filling out our contact form or calling 310-848-5054. We offer a free, prompt, and no-obligation case review.

What Is the Primary Cause of Bike Crashes?

In Torrance,California, Los Angeles, and throughout much of California, speeding by drivers of cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles is the leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities among bicyclists. Even small increases in speed significantly raise the risk of death in a traffic collision, as speeding increases a vehicle’s stopping distance and the force of impact. On average, 24 bicyclists are killed each year in Los Angeles alone.

Other common causes of bike accidents include:

  • Drivers speeding or running red lights
  • Drivers making illegal left or U-turns, colliding with an oncoming bicyclist
  • Drivers providing insufficient space when passing a bicyclist
  • Drivers illegally entering bike lanes
  • Drivers or passengers opening a car door without checking for an approaching bicyclist (known as “dooring”)
  • Careless or inattentive driving, often due to mobile phone use or texting
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

In some cases, non-driver factors contribute to a bicycle crash, such as roadway hazards, poorly marked construction sites, construction debris, sand, gravel, and other dangerous road conditions.

If a city or public agency may be at fault for your crash, it’s crucial to contact us immediately. In California, the statute of limitations for filing a claim is only six months from the date of the crash.

 

Do Drivers Always Have to Give Bicyclists Space When Passing?

Yes. The California Three Feet for Safety Act (California Vehicle Code Section 21670) requires drivers passing a bicycle moving in the same direction to maintain a safe distance that does not interfere with the safe operation of the bicycle. The law mandates a three-foot buffer between vehicles and bicycles when passing. However, if traffic or roadway conditions prevent this, the driver must slow to a reasonable and prudent speed and only pass when it is safe for the bicyclist.

Torrance, California Bike Accident Lawyer

Vince Xu is a seasoned personal injury attorney and is dedicated to securing justice and compensation for clients affected by negligence. We provide compassionate, personalized attention throughout the legal process. Contact us today for top-tier legal representation.

get my free consultation

May Drivers Enter Bike Lanes?

Yes, but only in specific situations. California Vehicle Code Section 21209 prohibits motor vehicles from driving in a bike lane except to park where permitted, enter or leave the roadway, or prepare for a turn within 200 feet of an intersection. It is common that bike lanes are painted to mark boundary with a solid color lane; some are green with a solid white border.

Can I Still File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit if I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes. In many cases, police reports may incorrectly place fault on the bicyclist. While police reports are essential evidence, they are not binding in court and may be based on faulty analysis.We will conduct a thorough and independent review of your case. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to recover damages if the driver’s negligence, such as speeding or other factors, contributed significantly to the accident and your injuries.

Why Do I Need a Bike Accident Lawyer? Can’t I Negotiate With the Driver’s Insurance Company on My Own?

Yes, but if your injuries are serious, we strongly recommend consulting with us first. Car insurance companies are for-profit entities, and their goal is to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Even if the police report favors you, the insurance company might try to shift the blame onto you, question the necessity of your medical treatment, or downplay the long-term impact of your injuries. Only an experienced bicycle accident attorney can accurately assess the value of your case. We’ve represented clients with fractures, internal injuries, concussions, and other severe injuries who received low settlement offers when dealing directly with insurance agents.

Why We Are the Best Bike Accident Attorneys for You

Our attorneys have the expertise to thoroughly investigate your case and ensure you receive the maximum compensation allowed by law. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a serious bike accident can take and are committed to treating you with compassion and respect throughout the legal process.We are known for taking on challenging and complex cases and winning, often securing recoveries far above industry averages.

We offer:

Personalized legal representation by highly experienced bicycle accident attorneys with a proven track record

Substantial financial and technological resources

Access to leading accident experts for cases involving brain, spine, neck, and back injuries

Contact a Bike Accident Attorney Today

We represent injured bicyclists in Torrance, California, Los Angeles, Southern California, and beyond. We are proud to be one of California’s top injury law firms. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a bike crash due to someone else’s fault, contact our attorneys today by completing our contact form or calling 310-848-5054. We will provide a free, prompt, and no-obligation case review.

BIKE ACCIDENT & CRASH CHECKLIST: WHAT TO DO, HOW TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS

What to Do After a Bike Accident or Crash

  • Bike accidents, traffic collisions, and being “doored” by a car can happen suddenly. Follow these steps to ensure your health and safety, make sure the police fairly investigate the crash, and protect your legal rights:
  • Get Out of the Road: If you’re in the roadway, move or ask for help moving to the side. If you’re in a safe spot, take a moment before getting up to assess your injuries.
  • Prioritize Your Health: If you’re injured and need medical care, call 911. If you can’t, ask someone nearby to call for you.
  • Get the License Plate Number: Ask the driver to stay at the scene until the police arrive. If they refuse, write down the vehicle’s license plate number and description.
  • Get the Driver’s Information: Request the driver’s contact information, inspect their driver’s license, and note their name, address, date of birth, insurance details, and vehicle registration information.
  • Gather Evidence:
    • Witnesses: Collect the names and contact details of witnesses. Don’t rely solely on the police for this information. If you’re injured, ask a bystander to help.
    • Photos: Take photos of the crash scene, or ask someone else to do so.
  • Get the Police Officer’s Information: Record the officer’s name, badge number, and contact information. Ask for an incident or traffic collision report.
  • Tell Your Side: Ensure the police officer hears your account of the accident. If you believe the driver was distracted, such as by texting or speeding, inform the officer.
  • Get the Police Report: Request a copy of the police report. If not available, ask for a receipt with instructions on how to obtain it. If no report was filed, visit the nearest police station to file a counter report.
  • Preserve Evidence: Keep your bike in its damaged state and save any ride data, such as from a GPS tracking app like Strava. Avoid riding your bike after the accident unless you are certain it’s safe and you’re physically capable.
  • Create Documentation:
    • Document What Happened: As soon as possible, write down a detailed account of the incident. Keep your notes along with the driver’s information, witness details, and the police report.
    • Document Your Damages: Record your injuries and the damage to your bike, helmet, and clothing. Take photos as well.
  • Seek Medical Care: If you didn’t require immediate hospital care but suffered an injury, seek medical attention right away. Some injuries may not manifest until days after the accident. Report all pain, discomfort, and stress to ensure proper treatment and accurate documentation for potential compensation.
  • Be Cautious When Speaking to the Driver’s Insurance Agent: You are not obligated to speak with the driver’s insurance agent, and the conversation may be recorded. Remember, insurance companies aim to minimize payouts. The agent may attempt to get you to admit fault or downplay your injuries. If you’re considering legal action, consult an injury attorney before speaking with any insurance agent.
  • Consult a Bike Injury Attorney: If you suffered serious injuries such as a concussion, fractures, or any long-term injury, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who has successfully handled bike accident cases. An attorney can help you understand your rights under California bicycle laws and the full compensation you may be entitled to. Most attorneys offer a free initial consultation.

Se Habla Español | 我说普通话

Free Consultation

"*" indicates required fields