Los Angeles Attorneys Standing Up For Injured Bicycle Accident Victims

The weather in Los Angeles is generally perfect for being outside year-round. This is one of many reasons that people in the area often get out on their bicycles – whether it is for exercise, recreation or even as a primary form of transportation. While cycling is healthy and economical, it is also risky due to the serious injuries that can result from bicycle accidents.

While drivers are supposed to share the road with cyclists, they often fail to pay attention or drive in a dangerous manner that causes bicycle crashes. If you have suffered injuries while cycling, you should call an experienced bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Attorney Kamelia Jalilvand represents injured accident victims from her office of Jalilvand Law, where you can find the representation you deserve.

Bicycle Accident Injuries And Losses

Bicyclists have very little protection in a collision with a motor vehicle or with the pavement. A helmet only protects your head and, even then, will not provide protection from head trauma 100% of the time. Because of this vulnerability, cyclists often suffer life-changing injuries, including:

• Multiple or compound fractures
• Soft tissue tears
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal injuries

All of these injuries can lead to overwhelming losses, including medical bills, lost income, loss of earning potential, loss of bodily function, loss of life enjoyment, and pain and suffering. Because losses can be so extensive, you need to make sure you have the right legal representation with one of our Los Angeles bike accident lawyers.

Common Questions About Bicycle Accidents, Answered

Bicycle accidents can be traumatic and confusing experiences. To help you navigate the aftermath, we’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions about bicycle accidents and related legal matters.

What should I do immediately after being involved in a bicycle accident?

After a bicycle accident, prioritize your safety and health. Move to a safe area if possible, and call emergency services if needed. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from witnesses. Report the incident to the police and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Preserve evidence by not repairing your bicycle or disposing of damaged clothing.

Once the dust settles, contact a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you determine the next best step.

How do I determine if I have a valid bicycle accident claim?

To have a valid claim, you must typically demonstrate that another party’s negligence caused your accident and resulting injuries. Factors such as traffic law violations, road conditions or defective equipment can contribute to a claim’s validity. Consult with a personal injury attorney who can evaluate the specifics of your case and advise you on its merits.

What types of compensation can I recover in a bicycle accident lawsuit?

In a bicycle accident lawsuit, you may be eligible to recover various types of compensation, including but not limited to: 

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation costs
• Loss of enjoyment of life

The specific compensation available depends on the circumstances of your case and the extent of your injuries. Our attorneys can help determine the type of compensation you deserve and the amount you are entitled to.

Can I still claim damages if I was not wearing a helmet?

You may still claim damages even if you were not wearing a helmet. California’s law does not prevent you from filing a claim after a bicycle accident without a helmet.

However, not wearing one may affect how much compensation you receive, especially if wearing a helmet could have reduced your head injury.

What are the most common injuries in bicycle accidents?

Bicycle accidents can cause many types of injuries. Some of the most common include:

• Head injuries such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones in the arms, legs, ribs and collarbone
• Cuts and bruises that may leave lasting scars
• Spinal injuries that can affect movement and daily life
• Internal injuries such as organ damage or internal bleeding
• Dental and facial injuries, including broken teeth or jaw fractures
• Road rash from being thrown on the pavement, which may cause painful infections if not treated
• Soft tissue injuries like sprains, strains and torn ligaments

These injuries often require hospital care, surgery, therapy and months of recovery because you are unable to work or do daily activities for some time.

A skilled Los Angeles personal injury attorney can help you get the support you need to handle the medical bills and focus on healing.

How do I prove the other party was at fault in a bicycle accident?

To win your case, you must show that the other person caused the accident. This can be done in several ways:

• Police reports that show details of the crash
• Witness statements from people who saw what happened
• Photos or videos from the scene, including traffic cameras or phone recordings
• Medical records that connect your injuries to the accident

Proving fault is not always simple. Insurance companies often try to blame the cyclist. Our bicycle accident attorney can collect the evidence and stand up for you.

Can I claim for emotional distress after a bicycle accident?

You may be able to claim for emotional distress. Bicycle accidents can cause more than just physical injuries. You can suffer from:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Nightmares
• Post-traumatic stress disorder

Many riders also lose confidence and develop a strong fear of getting back on a bike, which can affect their freedom and quality of life.

California law allows accident victims to seek compensation for these emotional struggles as part of their personal injury claim. Because emotional distress is harder to prove than physical injury, having a knowledgeable Los Angeles accident lawyer working on your case is essential.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a bicycle-related accident?

For California personal injury claims, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the incident. For property damage only, you have three years. If the claim is against a government entity, you must file an administrative claim within six months.

Understanding your rights and responsibilities following a bicycle accident is essential for protecting your interests. While these answers provide a general overview, each case is unique. Don’t hesitate to contact Jalilvand Law Corporation today for more tailored legal advice.

Should I talk to the insurance company after a bicycle accident?

If the liable party’s insurance company reaches out to you to discuss an accident, you are not obligated to speak with them – and you should not. An insurance company may attempt to use anything you say about your accident to reduce the amount of compensation you deserve.

An attorney can talk to insurance companies on your behalf, which provides a necessary buffer that can protect your interests.

What if I am partially at fault for the bicycle accident?

You may worry about your right to compensation if you believe you are partially at fault for a bicycle accident. However, California follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means that you can recover damages for your injuries and financial losses even if you are 99% at fault for the collision.

However, it is important to understand how fault could affect your case. The amount of compensation you can recover is generally reduced by any percentage of fault that is ultimately attributed to you. In other words, if you are 20% at fault for an accident, then the amount of compensation you can recover may be reduced by 20%.

Again, this is why insurance companies are often eager to speak to accident victims, hoping that they will say something that can be twisted to imply fault where there is none – and why you need an attorney to protect your interests.

How can an attorney help me with my bicycle accident case?

An experienced attorney can take aggressive action to protect your rights, identify liable parties, collect supporting evidence and submit crucial documents before key deadlines. They can also counter biases against bicyclists that may be in play, and protect you against insurance adjusters who are eager to minimize your losses and their company’s expenses.

What evidence is crucial in a bicycle accident claim?

Several key documents can support a bicycle accident claim, including:

• A police report detailing how the accident happened
• A medical report detailing injuries suffered after an accident
• Income statements showing lost wages after suffering from injuries
• Documentation of property damages, medical bills and other financial losses
• Witness statements, video evidence and other supporting documents

An attorney can help you gather crucial documents for a successful bicycle accident claim.

What should I bring to my initial consultation with a bicycle accident attorney?

When you meet with a bicycle accident attorney, it can be helpful to bring any information or evidence you have already collected. This could include contact and insurance information you gathered from the at-fault driver at the scene. Other important types of evidence include medical records and police reports, which help to define fault and outline your injuries, for which you want to seek financial compensation. If you have other evidence, like pictures from the scene, dashcam footage or any witness statements, that can also be beneficial as you build your case.

How is fault determined in a bicycle accident?

A police report can help establish fault if it documents a traffic violation or negligent act, such as failing to yield or entering a bicycle lane unlawfully. While not conclusive in civil claims, the report may support a negligence finding. Officers may also consider witness statements, physical evidence and scene conditions to determine fault. In complex cases, accident reconstruction experts may be used. Since most crashes result from human error, liability often depends on identifying which party breached their duty of care and whether that breach directly caused the accident.

What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?

If the driver who hit you was uninsured, recovering compensation can be more challenging, but not always impossible. You may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, which often applies even if you were cycling at the time. This coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages and other damages. You may also have the option to sue the at-fault driver directly, though collecting compensation depends on their ability to pay.

How long does a bicycle accident claim typically take to resolve?

The timeline for resolving a bicycle accident claim in California varies widely based on the facts of the case. Some claims settle within weeks, while others, especially those involving serious injuries, disputed liability or multiple parties, can take several months or longer. Factors such as the depth of the investigation, the availability of evidence and the at-fault driver’s cooperation all play a role. Additionally, if medical treatment is ongoing, claims may be delayed until damages are fully understood.

Are there any special laws that protect bicyclists?

Yes. California law gives bicyclists the same right to travel on public roads as drivers. Motorists must respect your presence on the road and follow specific safety rules designed to reduce preventable harm. For example, the state requires drivers to leave at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist on the street.

Los Angeles also uses dedicated bike lanes and shared lane markings to increase visibility and guide both cyclists and drivers. When a driver fails to check mirrors, turns without signaling or opens a door into a rider’s path, the impact can cause severe injuries. If a driver violated one of these safety rules during your accident, you can pursue a legal claim to recover financial losses. An attorney can evaluate how the law applies to the facts of your case and explain your legal options moving forward.

How much will it cost to hire an attorney for my bicycle accident case?

Some attorneys handle bicycle accident cases under a contingency fee structure. A contingency fee structure generally includes:

• No upfront attorney fees when the case begins
• Attorney fees taken from a percentage of any financial recovery
• A clear explanation of case costs before representation begins

This approach allows you to move forward without adding financial strain while managing your health and recovery. The attorney will discuss the terms and answer your questions so you can make a confident, informed decision.

What if my child were injured in a bicycle accident?

Children often face a higher chance of serious injuries in bicycle collisions because their bodies remain more vulnerable to impact. If your child suffered injuries, you or another legal guardian can take legal action on the child’s behalf.

California often requires court approval for settlements involving minors to ensure the resolution protects the child’s future needs. An attorney can handle communication with insurance companies, organize medical evidence and guide your family through the approval process so you can focus on your child’s recovery.

Can I claim for damage to my bicycle and other personal items?

Yes. You can pursue compensation for damaged property, including:

• Repair or replacement of your bicycle
• Helmets or riding gear
• Phones, glasses or other personal items

Keep receipts, photos and repair estimates because these records help support your claim.

Come To Us After Your Bicycle Accident

An experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney can help you through the insurance and legal process, fighting for your rights every step of the way.

After an injury, please call Jalilvand Law at 310-478-5800 or contact us online to discuss your legal options today.