Cycling Accident

Cycling Accident

Bicycle collisions with a motor vehicle are unfortunately all too common, and their consequences can be severe. Every year, thousands of cyclists are involved in crashes with motor vehicles, leading to injuries ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to life-altering, catastrophic injuries. The vulnerability of cyclists on the road makes them particularly susceptible to harm when involved in collisions with cars and other vehicles.

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There are many ways that someone can be harmed through a cycling incident, including but not limited to:

1. Rear-End Collisions: These occur when a motor vehicle strikes a cyclist from behind, often due to driver inattention or speeding.
2. Intersection Collisions: Intersections are particularly dangerous for cyclists, as drivers may not see them when making turns or proceeding through traffic signals.
3. Side-Impact Collisions: Also known as “T-bone” collisions, these happen when a vehicle collides with a cyclist from the side, typically at intersections.
4. Hit-and-Run Accidents: In some cases, drivers may flee the scene after a collision, leaving cyclists injured and without assistance.
5. Dooring Accidents: Passengers or drivers opening car doors into the path of oncoming cyclists.
6. Road Rage. This happens when a driver gets frustrated at a cyclist and may try to run them off the road, act out dangerous driving maneuvers, or even hit you with a part of their car.

The severity of bicycle accidents can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, the size and weight disparity between bicycles and motor vehicles means that cyclists often bear the brunt of the impact, leading to serious injuries. Additionally, the lack of protective barriers around cyclists exposes them to direct contact with the road or other objects in the event of a collision. It’s important for cyclists to take precautions, such as wearing helmets and protective gear, obeying traffic laws, and practicing defensive riding, to reduce the risk of these injuries. Understanding these common reasons for cycling collisions can help both cyclists and motorists take proactive measures to reduce the risk of collisions and promote road safety.

The most common reasons for cycling collisions include:

1. Driver Negligence: Motorists failing to pay attention, follow traffic rules, or yield the right of way to cyclists.
2. Distracted Driving: Drivers using mobile phones, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving, leading to crashes involving cyclists.
3. Failure to Yield: Drivers not yielding to cyclists when required, such as at intersections or when turning.
4. Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Motorists ignoring traffic signals and signs, resulting in collisions with cyclists.
5. Unsafe Overtaking: Drivers passing cyclists without leaving a safe distance, potentially causing sideswipe accidents.
6. Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, impairing a driver’s judgment and reaction time.
7. Speeding: Driving at speeds higher than the posted limits, reducing the driver’s ability to react to cyclists.
8. Inadequate Road Maintenance: Poorly maintained roads, potholes, debris, and lack of proper signage can lead to accidents involving cyclists.
9. Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions like rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the risk of collisions.
10. Inexperienced Cyclists: Inexperienced or novice cyclists may not be fully aware of road rules or may make unpredictable maneuvers.
11. No Protective Gear: Cyclists not wearing helmets or other protective gear are at higher risk of injury in accidents.
12. Night Riding Without Lights: Riding a bicycle at night without proper lighting can make cyclists less visible to drivers.
13. Unpredictable Pedestrian Behavior: Pedestrians unexpectedly stepping into the bike lane or crossing without looking can cause accidents.
14. Animals and Wildlife: Collisions with animals, such as dogs or deer, can also lead to cycling crashes.

“Every case where we’ve had an impact on someone’s life has truly touched me. It is a constant reminder that what we’re doing here at ACTS LAW can change our clients’ lives for the better.”

Danny Abir

Founding Partner

In the unfortunate event of a collision between a bicycle and a car, it is crucial for the bicycle rider to take certain immediate actions when possible. Seeking medical attention is paramount, even if injuries appear minor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not manifest symptoms right away but can have long-term consequences if left untreated. There are countless injuries that can occur as the result of a cycling collision, and they are often more severe than a car would experience. Knowing the common injuries of a bicycle collision can help you spot them for yourself or others if needed.

Common injuries resulting from bicycle accidents include:

1. Head Injuries: Head injuries are a significant concern for cyclists, even when wearing helmets. These injuries can range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which may have long-lasting or permanent effects.
2. Fractures: Cyclists often suffer fractures, especially to the wrists, arms, legs, and collarbones, due to the direct impact of the accident or falling.
3. Road Rash: Road rash occurs when the skin scrapes against the road surface during a fall. It can range from minor abrasions to deep, painful wounds requiring medical attention.
4. Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscles, tendons, and ligaments can be strained, sprained, or torn in a bicycle accident, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
5. Spinal Cord Injuries: High-impact collisions can result in spinal cord injuries, which may lead to paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
6. Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma can cause internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
7. Facial Injuries: Cyclists are at risk of facial injuries, including broken bones, lacerations, and dental injuries, especially if they are not wearing full-face protection.
8. Dislocations: Shoulder and hip dislocations are not uncommon in bicycle crashes, particularly in high-impact collisions.
9. Nerve Damage: Trauma from a collision can lead to nerve damage, causing pain, numbness, or loss of function in affected areas.
10. Psychological Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, bicycle accidents can also result in psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety disorders.
11. Fatalities: Tragically, some bicycle accidents result in fatalities, often due to the severity of injuries sustained in the collision.

It is also essential to gather evidence at the scene, such as detailed photographs of the vehicles involved and the scene, contact information of witnesses, and information about the driver involved. By following these steps after a bicycle accident, you can protect your rights, ensure you receive proper medical care, and position yourself for a smoother recovery process and potential legal action if necessary. Additionally, consulting with a cycling attorney can help accident victims understand their legal rights and pursue compensation for their injuries and damages.

 

Danny Abir

Founding Partner

Danny Abir is one of the founding partners of ACTS LAW and currently serves as its managing partner. He is responsible for running the day-to-day operations of the firm. Equally as important, Danny leads the strategic planning of clients’ cases in the areas of property damage claims, insurance bad faith, catastrophic personal injuries, and products liability.

Years of experience: 20 years
Bar number: #177358
Location: Los Angeles, CA

Some key steps that you can take after a bicycle accident in California include:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Regardless of the severity of your injuries, it’s crucial to prioritize your health and safety. Even seemingly minor injuries can have long-term consequences, so seek immediate medical attention. This not only ensures you receive proper care but also creates a medical record of your injuries.
2. Stay at the Scene: Do not leave the accident scene until you or a trusted friend have taken the necessary steps to protect your interests and have complied with law enforcement’s investigatory efforts.
3. Contact Law Enforcement: Report the crash to local law enforcement. Wait for the police to arrive and request a police report. This report can be a critical piece of documentation for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
4. Gather Information: Collect essential information from all parties involved, including the driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, and insurance details. Additionally, obtain contact information from any witnesses who may have observed the accident.
5. Document the Scene: If it’s safe to do so, take photographs of the scene, including vehicle positions, road conditions, any visible injuries, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. These photographs can serve as valuable evidence later.
6. Preserve Evidence: If there is damage to your bicycle or any of your personal belongings, document it thoroughly and keep all damaged items as evidence.
7. Do Not Admit Fault: Refrain from making any statements or admissions of fault to anyone at the scene, including the driver, witnesses, or law enforcement. Stick to providing information about the accident.
8. Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company to report the collision as soon as possible, even if the collision was caused by another party. Follow their instructions for providing information and documenting the incident.
9. Contact an Attorney: Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney, like those at ACTS LAW Firm, who specializes in bicycle crash cases. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, navigate the complex legal process, and pursue compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

After seeking medical care and gathering evidence, it is advisable for the injured cyclist to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney, such as Bruce Brusavich and Kevin Culpepper. ACTS LAW has a proven track record of successfully representing bicycle accident victims and obtaining compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We understand the unique challenges faced by bicycle collision victims and are committed to helping them navigate the legal process and secure the justice they deserve. If you or someone you know has been involved in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact ACTS LAW for a free consultation.

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