Glendora Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Glendora, California, is a haven for cycling enthusiasts, offering a blend of scenic beauty and challenging terrains. The city’s extensive network of parks and trails, including the popular Glendora Urban Trail System and the more rugged Lower Monroe Truck Trail, provides cyclists with diverse routes to explore. The Glendora Mountain Road stands out as a favorite among road bikers, offering a 21-mile ride up to Mt. Baldy Village with breathtaking views of the San Gabriel Mountains.

The increasing number of cyclists sharing the road with motor vehicles, however, has raised safety concerns. Incidents of cycling accidents highlight the potential dangers: narrow roads, sharp curves, and interactions with vehicles not adhering to the Three Feet for Safety Act emphasize the need for heightened awareness and caution among all road users.

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in Glendora, you need a specialized lawyer to navigate legal complexities and secure your rightful compensation. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we have a proven 20-year track record of success, and are ready to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Protect your rights and call us for a FREE case review at (213) 927-3700 or reach out via this quick online contact form.

What You’ll Learn

• Engaging an experienced Glendora bicycle accident lawyer significantly increases the chances of securing compensation for injuries and financial losses resulting from accidents.
• Common causes of bicycle accidents in Glendora include distracted driving, poor road conditions, and negligent driving behaviors, underscoring the need for specialized legal representation.
• Victims can claim various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress, making it essential to consult a lawyer for pursuing their legal rights.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Glendora

With California having one of the highest rates of bicycle accidents in the country, legal representation is crucial. In Glendora, common factors include unsafe turns by drivers and misjudging the space needed to pass cyclists.

Distracted driving, road hazards, and driver negligence are the most common causes of bicycle accidents.

Distracted Driving

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system — anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving.” 

Mobile phone use and texting while driving are major contributors to bicycle accidents, posing significant safety threats to bicycle riders.

Poor Road Conditions

Poor road maintenance increases the risk of bicycle accidents. Hazards like potholes and faded bike lanes markings contribute to higher accident rates. Those liable for negligence can include city, county, or state entities. Proper road maintenance is critical for cyclist safety.

Negligent Drivers

Speeding and failing to yield are major contributors to bicycle accidents, but they’re not the only ones. Consequently, the State of California has outlined various forms of driver negligence and established the penalties associated with each.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Glendora

If you or someone you know have been involved in a Glendora bicycle accident, it is vital to know the various steps that come before filing a personal injury claim. Gathering evidence, documenting the accident, as well as calling 911 to file a report, all contribute to your case. Let’s explore each step.

Seek Medical Attention

Get a medical evaluation within 72 hours of the accident injury, regardless of injury severity. Prompt evaluation is crucial as some injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can lead to complications.

Even minor injuries may require professional assessment, as some are not immediately apparent.

Document the Accident Scene

Collecting witness information and taking photos of the accident scene can greatly strengthen your case. Every detail matters: time of day, exact location, and surrounding conditions. Be sure to provide this information to the police so it’s officially documented as well.

Contact a Glendora Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Consult a bicycle accident attorney if you believe another party is at fault. Promptly contacting a lawyer is essential for building a strong case and navigating personal injury law complexities.

Why You Need a Glendora Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries and financial burdens. An experienced top personal injury lawyer can greatly improve your chances of obtaining compensation. In fact, a recent study revealed that plaintiffs accompanied by legal representation win about 3.5 times more than when pursuing litigation on their own. Access to resources and support staff are just two of the contributing factors for this difference. It helps that Glendora personal injury lawyers are well-versed in local laws and court systems as well.

Choosing the right attorney is crucial; consider their track record and approach to client care.

Expertise in Bicycle Accident Cases

Specialized bicycle accident lawyers have the expertise to handle complex claims and understand the challenges cyclists face. Their knowledge of regional traffic laws makes them invaluable in personal injury cases.

Choosing a specialized lawyer can ensure all aspects of the accident are thoroughly examined. They can effectively highlight dangerous driving behaviors that lead to bicycle accidents.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This includes hospital bills, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and lost income due to missed work. Emotional distress and reduced quality of life can also be claimed.

An experienced attorney can negotiate effectively with insurance companies, guiding the legal process to secure maximum compensation. They handle filing claims and negotiating settlements to recover what’s owed.

Legal Process for Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim

Filing a bicycle accident claim begins with a detailed consultation to assess your case. Gathering key evidence immediately after the accident is crucial. Early engagement with a specialized attorney can help in building a strong compensation case.

Initial Consultation

During the initial consultation, expect to discuss case details and legal options. This meeting allows clients to ask questions and understand potential legal strategies. Look for a firm offering free case reviews.

Investigation and Evidence Collection

Once an attorney takes on your case, they will begin the legal process of drafting claims and other necessary paperwork. In addition, an experienced attorney can calculate damages and help obtain physical proof, traffic camera recordings, and eyewitness statements.

Filing the Claim and Negotiations

The process includes sending a demand letter to the at-fault party or their insurance, detailing the insurance claim and compensation sought. Negotiations with insurance adjusters are crucial, and having a lawyer can significantly improve outcomes.

Types of Compensation Available for Bicycle Accident Victims

California victims can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages from a bicycle accident under California law. Depending on the nature of the case, there are a variety of things bike accident victims can recover from, from property damage to emotional distress. It is important to note that every case is different and will vary based on the severity of the accident. 

However, most bicycle accident victims can recover medical costs, lost wages, and even non-economic damages. With that in mind, it is important to familiarize oneself with these damages so you can be prepared with your accident case. 

Medical Expenses

Compensation for medical expenses covers hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, and therapy related to bicycle accident injuries and medical treatment. Victims can seek reimbursement for emergency room visits, surgeries, ongoing rehabilitation, and medical bills.

Lost Wages and Future Earnings

Victims may claim lost wages and future earnings, especially if injuries affect their ability to work. Injured cyclists can recover wages lost during recovery and compensation for future earning capacity affected by their injuries.

Pain and Suffering

In bicycle accident cases, non-economic damages—such as diminished quality of life and emotional distress—may be awarded as part of pain and suffering compensation. This includes physical pain resulting from injuries like broken bones, road rash, or head trauma. Additionally, ongoing discomfort during recovery, including pain from physical therapy, surgeries, chronic conditions, or permanent disabilities, may also be considered.

On the emotional and psychological side, mental anguish, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic disorder can lead to fear of riding a bike again, which is considered loss of enjoyment of life.

To determine if pain and suffering applies, courts assess medical records, expert testimony, duration of the injury and medical costs.

How to Choose the Right Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Glendora

When choosing a bicycle accident lawyer, consider experience, client feedback, and trial readiness.

Evaluate their success rate, check testimonials, and understand fee structure when selecting a lawyer. Usually, attorney fees are a percentage of the settlement, so there should be no cost to you if they don’t win. Full transparency on their part is key.

Evaluating Experience and Specialization

A qualified lawyer should have a strong educational background and extensive experience. Choosing a competent lawyer with specific experience in bicycle accident cases is vital for effective representation and better outcomes.

Checking Client Testimonials

Client testimonials are crucial for gauging a lawyer’s reputation and effectiveness. Positive reviews significantly enhance client satisfaction and build trust in the lawyer’s capabilities.

Potential clients should read testimonials to make an informed decision when selecting a lawyer.

Understanding Attorney Fees

Many Glendora bicycle accident lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay no upfront costs and only owe fees if they win compensation. Clients should clarify the fee structure and any potential costs during the initial consultation.

Some lawyers may charge additional costs for expenses like court fees, expert witness fees, and other legal costs incurred during the case. West Coast Trial Lawyers does not.

Schedule your FREE Case Evaluation with West Coast Trial Lawyers

If you were injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. With the right approach, you can secure a fair resolution and avoid prolonged headaches and disputes. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we will protect your rights and advocate on your behalf, so you’re compensated for your losses.

Call us for a FREE case review at (213) 927-3700 or reach out via this quick online contact form.

Frequently Asked Questions About Glendora Bike Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Glendora?

Immediately after a bicycle accident in Glendora, ensure your safety and call 911 for assistance. Seek medical attention, document the scene, and consider contacting a bicycle accident lawyer for further guidance.

How Can a Glendora Bicycle Accident Lawyer Help Me?

A Glendora bicycle accident lawyer can expertly navigate the complexities of your case, ensuring you receive maximum compensation while managing negotiations with insurance companies. Their specialized knowledge of local laws significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome.

What Types of Compensation Can I Claim After a Bicycle Accident?

You can claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future earnings, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering after a bicycle accident. It is essential to document all relevant costs and impacts to support your claim effectively.

How Do I Choose the Right Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Glendora?

To choose the right bicycle accident lawyer in Glendora, evaluate their experience and specialization, read client testimonials, and understand their fee structure to ensure you make an informed decision.

What Is the Legal Process for Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim?

The legal process for filing a bicycle accident claim includes an initial consultation, thorough investigation and evidence collection, followed by the filing of the claim and negotiations for a fair settlement. It is crucial to ensure you gather all necessary documentation to support your case effectively.