Panorama City Uber Accident Lawyers

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Panorama City

Due to their light and small frames, it is common for bicyclists to be side swept or run over by a distracted driver. And even though cyclists are governed by the same rules of the road as motor vehicle drivers, they may still have their right of way violated by other drivers.

Here are some common causes of bicycle accidents caused by negligent parties:

Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes of bicycle accidents is drivers who are distracted behind the wheel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares that about 1 in 5 people who died in crashes involving a distracted driver were either walking or riding their bikes. Distracted driving may include activities, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging with in-vehicle technologies. When drivers fail to pay attention to the road, they may not notice cyclists and can collide with them.

Failure to Yield Right of Way

Negligent drivers may fail to yield the right of way to cyclists when required. This can happen at intersections, crosswalks, or when making turns.

Dooring Accidents

Dooring accidents happen when drivers or passengers open their car doors without checking for approaching cyclists. This sudden obstruction can cause cyclists to collide with the door or swerve into traffic to avoid the collision.

Driving Under the Influence

Drivers impaired by alcohol, drugs, or medication pose a significant threat to cyclists. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and diminished awareness, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving cyclists.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, excessive speeding, or aggressive lane changes, can endanger cyclists. Drivers who engage in these behaviors may not respect cyclists’ rights or safety, leading to potential collisions.

Failure to Observe Traffic Laws

Reckless drivers who disregard traffic laws, including running red lights, stop signs, or failing to signal, can cause bicycle accidents. When drivers do not adhere to these rules, they create an unpredictable and dangerous environment for cyclists.

Poor Road Conditions

Poorly maintained roads, including potholes, uneven surfaces, inadequate signage, or lack of bike lanes, can increase the risk of accidents for cyclists.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Lack of protection can cause a cyclist to sustain various personal injuries. The severity of these injuries will depend on the circumstances of the accident.

The following or some of the most common bicycle accident injuries:

• Traumatic brain injuries – Brain injuries, including concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are a significant concern in bicycle accidents. Wearing a properly fitted helmet can help mitigate the risk of head injuries, but severe accidents can still lead to head trauma. In California, the bicycle helmet law requires any bicyclist 18 years or old to wear a helmet when riding.
• Facial injuries – Facial injuries are common in bicycle accidents, particularly when a rider’s face comes into direct contact with the ground, a vehicle, or other objects. These injuries may include facial fractures, lacerations, dental injuries, or damage to the eyes.
• Orthopedic injuries – Bicycle accidents frequently result in orthopedic injuries affecting the bones, joints, and soft tissues. Fractures, broken bones, dislocations, sprains, strains, and contusions can occur in various areas of the body, such as the arms, legs, shoulders, and hips.
• Road rash – Road rash refers to abrasions and skin injuries caused by contact with the road surface during a bicycle accident.
• Spinal cord injuries – Severe bicycle accidents can cause spinal cord injuries, leading to partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and impaired bodily functions.
• Internal injuries – In bicycle accidents, riders can sustain internal injuries that are not immediately apparent. These injuries may include organ damage, internal bleeding, or injuries to the chest or abdomen.

Recoverable Compensatory Damages in a Bicycle Accident Claim

In a bicycle accident claim, various types of damages may be recoverable. As the injured party, the specific damages you can seek will depend on the circumstances of your case. The following are some of the economic and non-economic damages you may be entitled to:

• Medical bills
• Physical therapy
• Property damage
• Loss of income
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of quality of life
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages

How Can a Panorama City Bicycle Accident Lawyer Help You?

Dealing with the aftermath of a bike accident can cause mental and emotional distress. Bicycle accident victims may also face exorbitant medical expenses or missed days of work during recovery.

However, you may be able to recover compensation and justice for your injuries and damages by filing a personal injury claim. Handling a claim for damages can be complex, it is ideal to hire an experienced bicycle accident attorney to help guide you through the legal issues involved in a claim.

A Panorama City bicycle accident attorney will be able to determine liability, launch a thorough investigation of the accident, consult with experts, and negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement on your behalf.

Hire an Award-Winning Panorama City Bicycle Accident Lawyer!

If you or a loved one have been the victim of a bicycle accident due to the actions of a responsible party, you may be eligible for financial compensation for your injuries and damages.

At Farahi Law Firm, our team of personal injury lawyers, doctors, and case managers is dedicated to winning you the maximum compensation and justice you deserve.

We work on a contingency fee basis, this means you won’t need to pay us a single cent unless we win!

Do not hesitate! Call us today at (818) 949-1881 for a free case consultation. We are available 24/7. We speak English, Spanish, and Filipino.