Burbank Bicycle Accident Lawyer

As the number of bicyclists on the road continues to rise, so does the likelihood of accidents involving bikes, particularly at intersections. Unfortunately, many of these incidents occur due to drivers failing to acknowledge that bicyclists have the same rights to the road as motor vehicles. This lack of awareness often leads to collisions when drivers neglect to watch for cyclists while navigating intersections or making turns. The risk is further heightened at busy intersections with rapidly changing traffic signals, posing significant danger to bicyclists who may find themselves unable to complete their crossing before the light changes.

Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:

1. Drivers failing to yield to bicyclists in intersections: Lack of familiarity with road rules regarding cyclists can be especially perilous when bikes and vehicles share intersections. These areas often witness devastating collisions due to motorists' oversight.
2. Drivers not observing bicyclists: A frequent cause of bicycle accidents is drivers simply not seeing cyclists while on the road. Both motorists and cyclists must take precautions to mitigate this preventable cause of crashes.
3. Motorists encroaching into bike lanes: Even when cyclists are within designated bike lanes, they must remain vigilant for distracted or negligent drivers. Vehicles can intrude into bike lanes within moments, posing a serious risk of injury to cyclists.
4. Bicycle doorings: Doorings, where a driver or passenger inadvertently opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, present a significant danger. These incidents can result in severe injuries to cyclists, including brain trauma and long-term pain.
5. Distracted motorists hitting cyclists: Distracted driving, fueled by the pervasive use of cell phones, poses a substantial threat to cyclists' safety. Distracted drivers may inadvertently drift into bike lanes or fail to notice cyclists at intersections, making them vulnerable to accidents.
6. Motorists neglecting to yield to bicyclists in driveways or parking lots: Failure of drivers to adequately check for pedestrians and cyclists when exiting driveways or parking lots can lead to serious accidents. Due to their smaller size and reduced noise levels, cyclists are particularly susceptible to being struck in these areas.

By understanding these common causes of bicycle accidents, cyclists and motorists alike can take proactive measures to enhance road safety for everyone.

How Can I Avoid a Bike Accident?

To avoid bike accidents and ensure safety while cycling in Burbank, it's crucial to adhere to proper safety procedures and traffic laws. Here are some essential tips for cyclists:

1. Obey the rules of the road: Familiarize yourself with traffic laws applicable to cyclists, including traffic signals, stop signs, and right-of-way rules. Always ride in the same direction as traffic and use hand signals to indicate turns.
2. Stay visible: Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing to enhance your visibility to motorists, especially during low-light conditions or inclement weather. Equip your bike with front and rear lights, as well as reflective gear, to increase visibility from all angles.
3. Be predictable: Maintain a consistent and predictable riding pattern to help motorists anticipate your movements. Avoid sudden swerves or changes in direction, and always signal your intentions well in advance.
4. Stay alert: Pay close attention to your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards on the road, such as potholes, debris, or parked cars. Scan the road ahead for obstacles and remain vigilant for approaching vehicles at intersections and driveways.
5. Use bike lanes when available: Whenever possible, ride in designated bike lanes or paths to separate yourself from motor vehicle traffic. Follow marked bike lanes and yield to pedestrians when sharing multi-use paths.
6. Maintain your bike: Regularly inspect your bicycle for any signs of wear or damage, including brakes, tires, and lights. Keep your bike properly maintained and ensure it is in good working condition before each ride.

By following these safety guidelines and remaining vigilant while cycling in Burbank, you can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the road. Remember to always prioritize safety and exercise caution when sharing the road with motorists.

‍How Can I Protect Myself in a Bicycle Accident?

• Use a properly-fitting helmet
• Wear bright or reflective apparel
• Use a bike light, reflectors, and reflective tape
• Follow all posted traffic laws
• Trip with the circulation of traffic
• Use bike lanes whenever possible
• Be sure your bicycle is in good working condition
• Stay alert at all times and avoid distracted riding

What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?

If you find yourself involved in a bicycle accident, it's crucial to take the following steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 and file a police report: Immediately contact emergency services and request medical assistance if you or anyone else involved in the accident requires medical attention. It's essential to file a police report detailing the incident, as this documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Never let a motorist convince you not to file a police report, as this could hinder your ability to seek compensation later on.
2. Exchange information with the motorist: Gather important information from the driver involved in the accident, including their name, contact information, driver's license number, and insurance details. Take photographs of their driver's license and insurance coverage card for your records.
3. Document the scene: Take multiple photographs of your bicycle, any damage sustained, the vehicle that hit you, and the overall scene of the crash. These visual records can provide valuable evidence to support your case and help determine liability.
4. Collect witness information: Obtain contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident occur. Witness testimony can corroborate your account of the events and strengthen your claim in legal proceedings.
5. Seek medical attention: Even if you don't believe your injuries are severe, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical evaluation can diagnose any underlying issues and document your injuries for insurance purposes.
6. Consult with a bike accident attorney: Before contacting the other party's insurance carrier, it's advisable to speak with an experienced bike accident attorney in Burbank. A knowledgeable attorney can assess your case, advise you on your legal options, and help you navigate the complexities of the claims process. Your attorney will work tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.

By following these steps and seeking the guidance of a skilled legal professional, you can ensure that your rights are safeguarded and pursue fair compensation for your bicycle accident injuries.

‍Contact a Burbank Bicycle Accident Attorney at Drake Law Firm

If you suffer an injury in an accident with an automobile while riding your bicycle, or somebody you love has been tragically killed, you should consult with a qualified bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. They will help figure out whether you might have a legitimate personal injury or wrongful death claim against a negligent driver.

At Drake Law Firm, our skilled bicycle accident attorneys assist cyclists in seeking cases against negligent motorists that have caused severe injuries. We understand how to collect all of the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, whether that means filing a claim or pursuing a remedy through other means.

At Drake Law Firm, we've assisted numerous personal injury clients to get the compensation they require to recover. We won't let you accept unfair treatment from other law firms and we will defend you from beginning to end. If you need help with a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Burbank, California, give us a call at (844) 513-7253 for a FREE consultation or visit our website at DrakeLawGroup.com to get started on your case today! 

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