A bicycle accident in Los Angeles can be a traumatic experience, often resulting in serious injuries and financial burdens. Knowing what to do immediately after an accident can help protect your legal rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Your health should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Seeking medical care also creates documentation that can be used as evidence in your claim. If you delay treatment, insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not serious or were unrelated to the accident.
Having an official police report is crucial when filing an insurance claim or lawsuit. Provide accurate details about the accident, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened. The report will document important details, such as road conditions, witness statements, and the driver’s information, which can support your case.
If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your bicycle, the other vehicle involved, and any visible injuries. Obtain the contact information of witnesses and the driver’s insurance details. Eyewitness testimonies can help establish fault and provide critical support for your claim. In addition, check for surveillance cameras in the area, as video evidence can strengthen your case.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Do not accept a settlement without consulting a bicycle accident attorney who can ensure you receive full compensation. Insurance adjusters may pressure you into accepting a low offer or misinterpret your statements to devalue your claim. An attorney will protect your interests and negotiate for fair compensation, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
ANTN LAW, led by attorney Arpine Navasardyan, specializes in representing cyclists injured in accidents. Our legal team will fight for your rights and maximize your compensation. We understand the challenges cyclists face on Los Angeles roads and are committed to securing justice for injured riders. Schedule a free consultation today.
Victims may be entitled to medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In severe cases, compensation for long-term disability may also be available. If the driver acted with gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to further hold them accountable.
California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages, but your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 25% at fault, your total compensation would be reduced by 25%. An attorney can help challenge unfair fault assignments to maximize your recovery.
In California, the statute of limitations for bicycle accident claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, if the accident involved a government entity (such as a public transportation vehicle or unsafe road conditions), the deadline may be shorter. Acting quickly is essential to preserving evidence and ensuring a strong case.
If your bicycle was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement. An attorney can include these damages in your claim, ensuring you receive the full cost of necessary repairs or a new bike if yours was totaled.
If you were the victim of a hit-and-run, report the accident to the police immediately. If possible, try to remember details about the vehicle, such as its make, model, color, or license plate number. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras may help identify the driver. If the at-fault driver cannot be found, you may still have options for compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues.
California has several laws that protect cyclists, including the Three Feet for Safety Act, which requires vehicles to maintain at least three feet of distance when passing a cyclist. Cyclists also have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and are legally allowed to ride in traffic lanes when necessary. If a driver violates these laws and causes an accident, they may be held liable for your injuries.
To reduce your risk of being involved in a bicycle accident, always wear a helmet, use bike lanes when available, and equip your bike with proper lighting for nighttime visibility. Follow traffic laws and be cautious at intersections where many bicycle accidents occur. Defensive cycling and increased awareness can help prevent crashes and injuries.
Contact ANTN LAW for a free consultation and expert legal representation. Our experienced team understands the complexities of bicycle accident cases and is dedicated to helping injured cyclists recover the compensation they deserve.
For more information on bicycle laws and safety in California, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
