Encino Bicycle Accident Lawyer

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As the amount of bicyclists increases, the amount of collisions involving bikes will also likely increase. And, like a lot of other vehicle collisions, a number of them occur at intersections. Many of these collisions are the result of motorists who seem to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roads. They neglect to look out for cyclists when making turns or driving through intersections.

These types of collisions are worsened by overly large and busy intersections. Furthermore, bicyclists are put at risk by rapidly changing traffic signals that may turn red before they completely cross the intersection.

What are the Most Frequent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

Some of the most common causes of bicycle crashes include:

Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections

Some motorists may not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with bicyclists sharing the road. This lack of awareness can be especially dangerous when a cyclist and a vehicle are sharing the roadway while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for vehicles and bicyclists. Intersections are one of the main areas where collisions leading to devastating injuries take place.

A driver failing to observe bicyclists when driving

Drivers not seeing a cyclist on the road is a common cause of a collision involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists should take preventative measures to reduce this very avoidable cause of bike accidents.

Bicyclists can use safety devices like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored apparel to help lower the possibility of a collision. Similarly, motorists need to know that cars are not the only vehicles they need to watch out for when driving. Motor vehicle drivers need to be especially cautious at intersections, near bike lanes, and in areas with a lot of bike commuters.

Drivers encroaching into bike lanes

Even while riding within the confines of a bike lane, bicyclists need to be alert at all times for distracted and careless motorists. Vehicles can unintentionally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after only a few seconds of distraction. This can possibly cause a bicyclist to suffer major injuries.

Bicycle doorings when a motorist or passenger doesn't pay attention while opening a car door

As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a serious threat to bicyclists, especially in urban environments. These incidents can cause a bicyclist to go flying over their handlebars, which can result in catastrophic injuries like brain injuries, neck and back injuries, facial damage, and long-lasting pain and suffering. Practicing defensive riding techniques is the best way for a bicyclist to prevent being the victim of a dooring.

Distracted drivers hitting a cyclist

Distracted driving is one of the greatest problems for roadway safety that we face today. As smartphones have become a major part of our everyday lives, many people find it hard to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a threat to other vehicles. However they are even more dangerous to cyclists and pedestrians since they have almost no protection if they are struck. Somebody who is distracted by texting, eating, or a variety of other reasons may divert into bike lanes. Likewise, they might not notice a cyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a bicyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big problem that it's been identified as the leading reason for bicycle collisions involving cars.

Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists while pulling in and out of driveways or parking lots

When a motorist that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not fully check their surroundings, it can cause major repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Cyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while people are backing out because of their smaller size and their low noise levels. Backup video cameras and sensors are starting to minimize these kinds of collisions. But drivers can not rely on these technologies in place of looking behind them and checking their blind spots.

How Can I Prevent a Bike Accident?

Following proper safety procedures and laws when riding a bike in Encino is the most effective way to prevent accidents and injuries. When riding in traffic, cyclists need to do the following:

• Obey the rules of the road
• Assume that cars and motorists will fail to see you
• Provide vehicles a wide berth
• Periodically yield to motor vehicles under certain conditions when you do not know if a driver has seen you
• You should have appropriate protective gear

How Can I Protect Myself in a Bicycle Accident?

• Wear a properly-fitting helmet
• Wear bright or reflective apparel
• Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
• Comply with all posted traffic laws
• Ride with the circulation of traffic
• Use bike lanes whenever possible
• Be sure your bicycle is in good working condition
• Stay alert at all times and avoid distracted riding

What Should I Do after a Bicycle Accident?

If you get hurt in a bicycle accident, it is important to do the following:

• Call 911 and make a police report. Do not let a motorist talk you into not making a police report. That can result in problems later.
• Exchange information with the motorist that hit you. Photograph of their driver's license and insurance coverage card.
• Take multiple photos of your bike, the vehicle that hit you, and the scene of the crash.
• Obtain witness information from anybody that happened to see the crash. Don't miss this step, as authorities do not always record witness details and you may need it later on.
• If needed, get medical attention immediately.
• Contact a knowledgeable bike accident lawyer in Encino. Do this before calling the other side's insurance carrier.

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Contact a Encino Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Drake Law Firm

If you sustain an injury in an accident with an automobile while riding your bicycle, or somebody you love has been tragically killed, you need to speak with a knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer immediately. They will help figure out whether you may have a valid personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent driver.

At Drake Law Firm, our skilled bicycle accident attorneys assist bicyclists in pursuing claims against negligent drivers that have caused severe injuries. We understand how to collect all of the compensation you deserve for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or seeking a remedy through other methods.