Riding a bicycle is a popular way to get around Los Angeles. With thousands of cars on the road every day, cyclists can get to their destination without being stuck in traffic. In Los Angeles, cyclists have similar rights as drivers.
California bicycle laws serve to protect cyclists state that a person riding a bicycle has all of the rights as a person operating a motor vehicle. This means a cyclist riding a bike has the same rights a person driving a car. Additionally, that means he or she must obey all traffic laws such as obeying traffic lights and stop signs.
But as careful as you try to be, sometimes accidents just happen.
Types of Bicycle Accident Risks
Just like driving a car, there are risks involved with riding a bicycle. Several reasons can contribute to a bicycle accident, but the most common risks include:
- Riding above the speed limit
- Not wearing a helmet
- Riding under the influence (such as alcohol or drugs)
- Failing to properly maintain a bike
- Riding a bike with a flat tire
- Riding a bike in an unsafe environment such as poor road conditions
- Riding a bike in the rain or dangerous weather
- Riding in the early evening or late afternoon
- Failing to adhere to traffic laws
Both cyclists and drivers should always follow traffic safety laws to prevent accidents.
Types of Bicycle Accident Injuries
The type of injuries a cyclist can sustain from a bicycle accident will vary depending on the specific situation. Injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to serious ones such as traumatic brain injury. Although most bicycle-related injuries occur on the lower or upper extremities, injuries can occur anywhere on your body.
Here are some common types of bicycle accident injuries:
- Broken or shattered bones
- Head injuries (such as skull fractures)
- Face or eye injuries (such as contusions or dental fractures)
- Cuts or bruises anywhere on your body
- Brain injuries (such as concussions)
- Muscle strains or pulls
- Chest injuries (such as rib fractures)
Bicycle injuries can be extremely traumatizing – especially if it involves a car or truck. Due to the sheer size of a motor vehicle, a cyclist will inevitably sustain more serious injuries.
What to do After a Bicycle Accident
Even if it’s a minor accident, some injuries can be more serious than it seems. If you’ve been hurt in a bicycle accident, make sure to check and see if you’ve sustained any injuries.
If your head got injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Head injuries can be very serious and should not be taken lightly. Explain to your attending medical professional all of your injuries including any cuts, bruises, or muscle strains.
Consult with a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you’re a victim of a bicycle accident, you have the right to claim damages against the party at fault. An experienced bicycle accident attorney at Mesriani Law Group can help you with your accident claims. Contact us today to see how we can help you get the maximum compensation you deserve.
