Bike Accident Safety Features

4 Bike Safety Features that Help Avoid Accidents and Injuries

Bicycle accidents are the leading cause of death for children and older adults in Los Angeles. According to a study conducted by the LA Vision Zero Project, approximately 200 people die each year from a bicycle accident. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we understand the dangers that come along with riding a bicycle, especially when the bicyclist does not know any safety precautions. To ensure your safety, we’ve created a list of what you should check for to make sure you are properly using your bike while on the road.

The Bicycle Frame

• 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 the front fork.
• Appropriate seat height.
• Make sure the handlebar is in line with the front wheel.

The Tires and Wheels 

• Fully inflated tires.
• Tire tread.
• Visible bulging damage.
• Free spinning wheels.

Bicycle Brakes 

• 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 

• The crack is sturdy.
• The pedals are sturdy.
• 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

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 percent 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.

Read More About Bike Accidents

Our excellent team of bike accident attorneys have created several resources for you to read through. Feel free to browse these topics and read the ones you would like to learn about more.

• How to Avoid Bicycle Accidents
• Bicyclist Accidents Caused by Car Door
• Most Dangerous Places To Ride A Bike In Los Angeles, CA
• The Best 4 Bike Paths in Los Angeles
• What if I’m Injured While Using a Bike Share? 
• Bike Sharing History  
• Benefits Of Bike Sharing 
• Bicycle Safety Checklist 
• Bike On Bike Accidents 
• Types Of Bikes / Illegal Bikes In California
• Can I Ride My Bike on the Sidewalk in Los Angeles? 
• Crucial Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident 
• Bicycle Accident Injuries 
• Bicycle Accidents With an Uninsured Driver 
• Who Is At-Fault in a Bicycle Accident?
• Helmet Laws and How They Affect Your Insurance Claim 
• Bike Riding in LA
• Most Common Bike Accident Injuries 
• California Bike Accident Statistics 
• Bicycle Accident Insurance 
• Bike Hand Signals
• How Bike Sharing is Safer Than Riding Your Own Bike 
• What If I’m Injured While Using a Bike Share?
• Bike Accident Compensation
• Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accidents 
• Cyclist Death in Los Angeles