If you were injured in a Los Angeles bicycle accident, you’re likely wondering what your options are. Even if you do have insurance, they may not be willing to compensate for the total amount of damages. If this happens to you, the Los Angeles law firm of Estey & Bomberger, LLP will fight on your behalf for fair compensation. Contact our office today for your free consultation.
Biking in Los Angeles is a dangerous prospect; the city had more than 2,000 bicycle accidents in 2012, the most of any in the country. The state of California accounts for nearly one-fourth of all bicycle accident fatalities nationwide; between 2010-2012, there were 338 cyclists killed in collisions with motor vehicles, the most of any state. Los Angeles is attempting to get creative in solving this issue, but in the meantime, cyclists need the option to recoup their losses.
Why Hire Us? Our Experience on the Road and In the Courtroom
Those injured in bicycle accidents have a compassionate and understanding attorney in Mike Bomberger; Mr. Bomberger logs several hundred miles per week on his bike and has won numerous cases on behalf of bicycle accident victims. He understands how dangerous Los Angeles’s roads can be for bikers and how vulnerable they are to serious injury. He doesn’t just empathize with those injured in a bicycle accident; he takes all rider’s safety on the road personally.
If you’ve been in a bicycle accident, you may have injuries that require a lengthy recovery period, and perhaps even surgery. The prospect of filing a claim or lawsuit may seem daunting when already facing mounting medical bills. But if someone else was responsible for or negligent in causing your accident, you deserve compensation.
Estey & Bomberger, LLP works on a contingency fee basis; we don’t get paid unless you get paid. Our firm will handle all paperwork, evidence gathering, and negotiations during your claim, so that you can focus on healing.
“I went to see Mike and he said, ‘Look all your worries are done, I’m going to take care of everything. A couple of months later they called and said everything’s been resolved… I would absolutely recommend them.” –Jeff Lambing
“Mike Bomberger was there for me from day one. The construction company was held accountable, which was my number one concern. I definitely recommend Estey & Bomberger.” –Rachelle Smith
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Sharing the road with vehicles that are many times larger and traveling many times faster than a cyclist can be inherently dangerous. The thin tires of a road bike can leave you more susceptible to ruts and potholes as well. Some of the more common causes of bicycle accidents include:>
- Road terrain – The aforementioned potholes are a reason that many accidents involve just the cyclist.
- Inattentive driver – A driver that is unaware of the cyclist will often not give them enough space in the lane and push them off the road.
- Aggressive driver – A driver may also purposely tailgate, cut off or run a cyclist off the road because they perceive a cyclist as inconvenient.
- Improper signals/lights – A cyclist has the same rights as a vehicle, which also means they have the same responsibilities. Failure on the part of the cyclist to use proper turn signals or make themselves visible causes many accidents.
In many situations, a bicycle accident is caused by someone else’s negligence. Even in cases of a single crash, where the city can be held responsible for the lack of road maintenance.
Los Angeles Bicycle Laws
The City of Los Angeles does allow bicycle riding on sidewalks unless it poses a danger to other bystanders. Other bicycle laws for riders in Los Angeles include:
- Lane sharing – Cyclists must remain as far right in the lane as possible, except when passing, making a left turn, or avoiding a hazard in the roadway.
- Control – Cyclists can’t carry something which keeps them from placing both hands on the handlebar.
- Helmet and headphone use – All riders aged 18 or younger must use a helmet at all times. The use of headphones while riding is prohibited.
- Three feet of safety – Drivers must allow at least that much space when passing a bicyclist. If the road does not allow for this much room, drivers should slow down before passing.
In general, a duty of care and safety is in place for drivers and cyclists alike at all times. Common sense when the two interacts can prevent a lot of accidents.
Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Attorney
Our lawyers are honest, diligent, and experienced; you will never be kept in the dark about proceedings, you can be confident that we are working hard for you, and take comfort in knowing that we have been successful in many previous bicycle accident injury cases.
We understand that it’s not just medical expenses or lost wages that can affect you after a bicycle accident; your injuries may have caused you the loss of the ability to function as you previously could. These losses may not be physical or easily calculated, but that’s where we come in. We’ll fight on your behalf for fair compensation for all your damages. Call Estey & Bomberger, LLP today to schedule your free consultation.