Bicycle Accident Lawyer in East Los Angeles

Tell Mendez & Sanchez About Your Case.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Mendez & Sanchez - Bicycle Accident Lawyer in East Los Angeles, California

To Avoid Accidents and Injuries, Cyclists Need To Always Ride Defensively. As the number of bicyclists increases, the number of accidents involving bikes will also likely grow. And, like many other vehicle accidents, a number of them occur at intersections.

A number of these collisions are the result of drivers who appear to forget that bicyclists are also legitimate and lawful users of the roadways. They neglect to look for bicyclists when making turns or driving through intersections. These types of accidents are exacerbated by overly large and busy intersections. Additionally, bicyclists are endangered by rapidly changing traffic signals that might turn red before they fully cross the intersection.

What Are the Most Prevalent Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

Several of the most common causes of bicycle collisions include:

Motorists failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections

Some motorists might not be familiar with the rules of the road when dealing with bicyclists sharing the street. This lack of understanding can be especially hazardous when a bicyclist and a vehicle are sharing the street while crossing or turning at an intersection. Intersections are among the most hazardous places for cars and cyclists. Intersections are one of the main areas where collisions leading to devastating injuries happen.

A driver failing to observe bicyclists on the road

Motorists not seeing a bicyclist when driving is a common reason for an accident involving a bicycle. Both motorists and bicyclists should take preventative measures to minimize this very avoidable cause of bike collisions.

Cyclists can use safety accessories like sideview mirrors, reflectors, lights, and light-colored clothing to help reduce the possibility of an accident. Likewise, motorists must be aware that cars are not the only vehicles they need to look out for on the roads. Motor vehicle drivers should be particularly mindful at intersections, near bike lanes, and in locations with a large number of bike commuters.

Drivers encroaching into bike lanes

Even while riding within the boundaries of a bike lane, bicyclists should be alert at all times for distracted and reckless drivers. Cars can accidentally or intentionally drift into a bike lane after just a few seconds of inattention. This can possibly cause a cyclist to suffer serious injuries.

Bicycle doorings when a motorist or passenger does not pay attention while opening a car door

As we mentioned above, dooring incidents are a major threat to bicyclists, particularly 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. Engaging in defensive riding techniques is the most effective way for a cyclist to avoid being the victim of a dooring.

Distracted motorists hitting a bicyclist

Distracted driving is one of the biggest concerns for road safety that we face today. As smartphones have become a huge part of our everyday lives, many people find it hard to put down their phones even while driving. Distracted drivers are clearly a risk to other vehicles. However they are even more dangerous to bicyclists and pedestrians because they have almost no protection if they are hit. Somebody that is distracted by texting, eating, or a multitude of other things may divert into bike lanes. Likewise, they might not notice a bicyclist crossing through an intersection or fail to see a cyclist while making a turn. Distracted driving is such a big problem that it's been identified as the leading reason for bicycle accidents involving cars.

Drivers neglecting to yield to bicyclists while pulling in and out of driveways or parking lots

When a driver that is backing out of a driveway or parking lot does not completely assess their surroundings, it can result in serious repercussions for pedestrians and bicyclists. Cyclists are more likely to be struck in parking lots and while individuals are backing out due to their smaller size and their reduced noise levels. Backup cameras and sensors are starting to reduce these types of collisions. But motorists can not depend on these technologies instead 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 East Los Angeles is the best way to avoid collisions and injuries. When moving in traffic, cyclists need to do the following:

  • Obey the rules of the road
  • Presume that vehicles and drivers will fail to see you
  • Provide cars a wide berth
  • Occasionally yield to automobiles under certain conditions when you do not know if a driver has seen you
  • You should have appropriate safety gear

How Can I Protect Myself in a Bicycle Accident?

  • Use a properly-fitting helmet
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing
  • Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
  • Adhere to all posted traffic laws
  • Flight with the flow of traffic
  • Use bike lanes whenever possible
  • Be sure your bicycle is in good working condition
  • Remain alert at all times and avoid distracted riding

What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?

If you get injured in a bicycle accident, it is vital to do the following:

  • Call 911 and make a police report. Do not let a driver talk you into not making a police report. That can lead to issues later on.
  • Exchange information with the motorist that hit you. Photograph of their driver's license and insurance card.
  • Take multiple pictures of your bike, the vehicle that hit you, and the scene of the accident.
  • Obtain witness information from anybody that happened to see the accident. Don't bypass this step, as authorities do not always take down witness details and you may need it later on.
  • If needed, get medical attention right away.
  • Consult with a knowledgeable bike accident attorney in East Los Angeles. Do this before calling the other side's insurance provider.

Contact a East Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Attorney at Mendez & Sanchez

If you suffer an injury in an accident with an automobile while riding your bicycle, or someone you love has been tragically killed, you should talk to a qualified bicycle accident lawyer immediately. They will help determine whether you may have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent motorist.

At Mendez & Sanchez, our knowledgeable bicycle accident attorneys help bicyclists in pursuing cases against negligent drivers who have caused serious injuries. We know how to collect all of the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or pursuing a remedy using other means. 

OUR PERSONAL INJURY AND BICYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYERS IN EAST LA ARE AVAILABLE 24-HOUR A DAY TO TAKE YOUR CALL. FOR A FREE ASSESSMENT, CALL US AT (323) 838 - 1444.

Testimonials

"Michael was an outstanding attorney. He always made sure to keep me in the loop with my case and worked nonstop to help get the outcome I deserved. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs only the best lawyer and I will definitely return to him again in the future!"

Rachel G.

"Super professional, friendly staff. The team was so knowledgeable and helpful throughout the entire legal process of my car accident. I highly recommend using them!"

Michelle Nguyen

"Very professional and diligent. Got my case resolved in a timely manner and communicated with my throughout the process of my case."

Brian Altnis

"Wow! Michael Sanchez got me more money than I thought I would ever get. He's confident and a shark yet kind with his clients. I highly recommend."

Giovanni P

"My fiancé had a successful case with this firm. Under the circumstances, Mendez & Sanchez, attorneys and staff made this a pleasant experience. Staff was respectful, genuine, and all around a great fit for the case and my fiancé. This firm comes highly recommended!"

Danielle Simmons

Areas We Serve

Victorville

Bakersfield

Antelope Valley

Oxnard/Ventura

San Bernardino

East Los Angeles

Los Angeles

Areas of Expertise

While other firms just handle your bodily injury claim, we offer a complimentary full-service package where we will also handle your property damage for no fee!

Contact Us

Photo of professional Mendez and Sanchez Personal Injury Law Offices team posing.

Use the form below to tell us about your legal inquiry, and we’ll call you back to schedule an appointment. Please be as detailed as possible. Include what industry you need service for along with any specific document requests. Our general response time is one business day.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.