I’m sorry to hear about your accident. There are laws that regulate when and how automobiles must yield for bicycles. In general, automobiles must giver bicyclists the same consideration as other vehicles on the roads. Bicyclists are also expected to obey the rules of the road as well.
It’s been estimated that in over half of the accidents that occur between automobiles and bicycles, automobile drivers are to blame. One of the most common causes of accidents between automobiles and bicycles is a failure to yield to bicyclists. This can happen for several reasons. The automobile driver may be unaware of the rules regarding bicyclists or the need to yield. The automobile driver may be distracted and fail to see the bicyclist.
In most accidents between an automobile and a bicyclist, the bicyclist is severely injured. Automobiles drive much faster and are much heavier than bicycles. In addition, the bicyclist typically has very little protection, and may only have a helmet and some safety padding. It’s common for bicyclists to suffer very serious injuries in accidents even at slow speeds. Those injuries can include broken bones, serious brain injuries, cuts and bruises, and internal injuries.
If you have been injured in the Los Angeles area as a bicyclist, call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney, at 310-385-0567. I can help. I have experience in obtaining large awards for clients who have been injured through the negligence of another party. Call today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.