The Los Angeles Bike Accident Safety Checklist
Check These 4 Bike Safety Features Before You Ride: Free Insight from the Best Bicycle Accident
Bicycle accidents are the leading cause of death for children in Los Angeles. According to a study conducted by the LA Vision Zero Project, approximately 200 people a year die from bicycle accidents. West Coast Trial Lawyers understands this. Unfortunately, most of these deaths could have been prevented with simple safety precautions, such as wearing a helmet. Listed below is a bicycle safety checklist that everyone should follow.
The Bicycle Frame | What to Check For
- Dents or cracks in the frame
- Rust patches that could weaken the frame
- Security of the frame (all parts are tightly screwed)
- Tight seats, handlebars, and front fork
- Appropriate seat height
- That the handlebar is in line with the front wheel
The Tires and Wheels | What to Check For
- Fully inflated tires
- Tire tread
- Visible bulging damage
- Free spinning wheels
Bicycle Brakes | What to Check For
- Brakes are stopping the spinning wheels without slipping
- Test to see that your bike does not move forward while applying the brakes
- Brake pads should have 3/16 of an inch of rubber
- Hand brakes should have some resistance when squeezed and should not squeeze all the way
Crank and Chain | What to Check For
- That the crack is sturdy
- That the pedals are sturdy
- That the chain is lubricated
Adult Gear
- Helmet
- Mini first aid kit
- Bell or horn
- Reflective wheel stripes
- GPS
- Bike mirrors and reflective sticker
- Helmet or handlebar headlight
What Children Should Wear
- Childproof helmet
- Elbow pads
- Knee pads
- Bright colors
Available Damages
Accidents happen. If you were injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Below is a brief explanation of damages. Damages are a type of monetary award that is determined by a court of law to help compensate an aggrieved individual for any losses or injuries sustained as a result of someone’s negligence.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are intended to compensate a plaintiff for losses that a dollar amount can readily be attached to. Economic damages are calculated by determining the amount of out of pocket losses an aggrieved individual has or will expect to incur as a result of their injuries.
A few examples of economic losses include:
- Loss of Earning Capacity
- Medical Bills
- Lost Wages
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are essentially intended to cover losses that are thought of as subjective and will not necessarily cover out of pocket losses. Non-economic damages may include compensation for:
- Emotional Distress
- Pain and Suffering
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Other Non-Economic Damanges
Punitive Damages
The third type of damages a California court may award are known as punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended as punishment and are only awarded when a defendant’s behavior is especially harmful. Punitive damages are relatively rare and in fact are only incorporated in 5% of all verdicts.
Contact Us To Find Out How We Can Help
If you have sustained injuries in the city of Los Angeles as a result of a bicycle accident, an attorney at our firm can help you recover financial compensation for the losses you have suffered, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Call us today at (213) 927-3700 or email [email protected] to schedule a free consultation with our experienced, caring, and compassionate legal team.