Long Beach Bicycle Accident Lawyer

With over 60 miles of bike lanes, paths, and bike-friendly infrastructure, Long Beach, California, is widely recognized as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the United States. Its extensive network of bike routes attracts many bicyclists year-round, from commuters to recreational riders. However, this popularity comes with an unfortunate reality: the more cars and bikes share the road, the greater the risk for bicycle accidents involving serious injuries and significant legal consequences. 

Bicycle accidents can result in traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and steep medical bills, which is why having a skilled Long Beach bicycle accident lawyer on your side is so crucial. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, you pay no upfront fees, so if we win, you win. Our in-house trial team has won thousands of personal injury cases and we can do the same for you. But don’t take our word for it, see what makes us a 5-star law firm on Yelp. 

Then call us for a FREE case review at  (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. 

Long Beach Bike Accidents Statistics

Long Beach is home to numerous business districts, including 4th Street’s Retro Row, Belmont Shore, and Downtown, as well as tourist hotspots like Alamitos Bay, Shoreline Village, and the Queen Mary. So it’s no surprise that Long Beach experiences high traffic volume year round. Unfortunately, that means bicycle accidents are a major concern despite city efforts to promote public safety.

In fact, in its recent Bicycle Safety Report, LABike.org identified East Anaheim Street in Long Beach as one of LA County’s most dangerous roads for bicyclists, possibly because like so many other multi-lane roads, it has high traffic density, but no bike lanes. A formula accounting for approximately 80% of bike fatalities.

Bicycle riders face unique vulnerabilities when sharing the road with motor vehicles. When an accident happens, the cyclist is often the one who suffers the most severe injuries. Such bicycle accident cases can occur on any of Long Beach’s many roads: along the beach path, in urban intersections, or in residential neighborhoods. Even with designated bike lanes, many drivers fail to yield or check for cyclists when making turns or opening a car door, making the consequences for a bicyclist life-altering.

California Bike Laws

According to California’s Department of Motor Vehicles, 100 bicyclists are killed and over 10,000 are injured in collisions every year. Those staggering statistics are why you should know what you can do to ride safely. Under the California Vehicle Code 21200, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. This means cyclists must obey traffic signs and signals, ride in the same direction as traffic, and use lights and reflectors when riding at night. When a bike lane is present, cyclists are generally required to use it unless making a turn or avoiding a hazard. Motorists must allow at least three feet of space when passing a bicyclist. Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18, and all bikes must be equipped with working brakes. These regulations aim to reduce accidents and ensure a safer road environment for everyone.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle crashes in Long Beach stem from a variety of factors and distracted driving is one of the leading causes. When a motorist fails to notice a cyclist due to phone use, GPS adjustments, running a red light or driving under the influence, they are violating duty of care and contributing to potentially devastating accidents.

Other common causes include drivers opening their car doors into the path of a cyclist, poor road conditions, lack of dedicated bike lanes in certain zones, and vehicle blind spots. Regardless of how the accident occurred, an experienced bike accident lawyer can help prove who is at fault and build a strong bicycle accident claim.

What is the Statute of Limitations on Bike Accidents?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a bicycle accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means an injured cyclist has two years to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for their injuries. If the accident involved a government entity—such as if a poorly maintained public road caused the crash—the deadline is much shorter: a government claim must be filed within six months of the incident. 

Failing to meet these deadlines can result in losing the right to pursue compensation altogether. The statute of limitations is crucial because evidence can fade and witness memories can weaken over time, making timely legal action essential to building a strong case.

Types of Injuries Sustained in a Bicycle Accident

Injured cyclists in Long Beach often suffer a range of injuries, from minor scrapes to catastrophic injuries. Common injuries include broken bones, facial injuries, road rash, spinal damage, and permanent injuries that can alter quality of life. In more severe cases, traumatic brain injuries may require long-term medical care and rehabilitation.

These serious injuries often lead to emotional distress and high financial burdens. Victims may lose control of their bicycle during the crash, increasing the chance of secondary impacts with the ground or other vehicles. The medical records detailing such injuries play a vital role in recovering these costs.

Determining Liability in Bike Accidents

Determining liability in a bike accident involves identifying who was at fault for causing the collision and whether negligence played a role. In California, liability is based on the concept of negligence—if a driver, cyclist, or even a pedestrian fails to act with reasonable care and causes an accident, they may be held legally responsible. Common examples include a driver failing to yield, running a red light, or opening a car door into a cyclist’s path (“dooring”). 

Cyclists can also share fault if they violated traffic laws, such as riding against traffic or ignoring signals. California follows a comparative fault system, meaning an injured cyclist can still recover damages even if they were partially at fault, though their compensation may be reduced in proportion to their level of responsibility. Attorneys use evidence like witness statements, traffic camera footage, and police reports to determine who is liable.

Most Common Mistakes of Bicycle Accident Claims

One of the most common mistakes people make after a bicycle accident is delaying medical treatment or failing to document their injuries properly. This can weaken a claim by making it seem as if the injuries were not serious or weren’t caused by the accident. Another frequent error is not collecting evidence at the scene, such as photos, witness contact information, or a copy of the police report. 

Many injured cyclists also speak to insurance adjusters too soon or accept low settlement offers without understanding the full extent of their losses. Remember, insurance companies want to pay you as little as possible. Some cyclists even admit fault without knowing all the facts, which can be used against them later. Finally, waiting too long to file a claim or missing legal deadlines can result in losing the right to compensation altogether. Avoiding these pitfalls is crucial to preserving your rights and strengthening your bicycle accident claim.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation with West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our expert attorneys have been winning personal injury cases for over 20 years and we’re ready to do the same for you. We will evaluate the information presented, identify the at-fault party, negotiate with the insurance company and, if necessary, pursue legal action to get you a fair and just settlement.

Our attorneys have fought and won against the world’s largest corporations and are trusted by major news organizations worldwide for our legal expertise. Ready to see what your case is worth? Call us at (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. We’re available 24/7 to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Long Beach Bike Accidents

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

You may recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, damaged property, emotional distress, non economic losses, and in some cases, punitive damages.

Can I Still File a Claim if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?

Yes, but it may affect your compensation. Consult a bike accident lawyer to understand how helmet use factors into your specific case under California law.

Is There a Deadline to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in California?

Yes. Generally, personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the date the accident occurred. Speak to a bicycle accident attorney to ensure your rights are preserved.