Bicycle accidents in which the bicyclist is sideswiped by an automobile are not uncommon, especially in areas with heavy automobile traffic. If a driver takes their eyes off course for a second, the vehicle may serve and hit a bicyclist. A sideswipe accident can be just as dangerous to a bicyclist as getting hit directly. The bicyclist may be thrown from the bike or crash. Injured bicyclists may be able to sue for their injuries, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Any bicyclist who is sharing the roads with automobiles can be sideswiped. There is normally not much space between automobiles and bicyclists, even if there is a designated bike lane or if the bicyclist is riding on the shoulder of the road. Distracted drivers may take their eyes off the roads. Tractor trailers or other wide vehicles that are turning often accidentally swing into the bike lane or onto the shoulder of the road. Drivers may be engaging in illegal behaviors such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding, or ignoring the rules of the road.
It is often difficult for a bicyclist to avoid being sideswiped. The bicyclist normally doesn’t see the vehicle coming until it’s too late. However, the good news is that compensation is available when a bicyclist is injured. The accident victim may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other out of pocket expenses. That money typically comes from the automobile driver’s insurance policy. However, it can come from other sources as well.
If you have been sideswiped in Los Angeles, you should speak with an attorney. Call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney at 310-385-0567. I can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.