Cruising down a sunny Los Angeles street on your bike is a fantastic way to get around, good for your health and a win for the environment. But what happens if your journey suddenly halts due to an accident?
Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation out there about bicycle accidents, which can leave you feeling confused and unsure of your legal rights.
Myth: I don’t need legal support if the driver’s insurance company is cooperating
Beware of an insurance company’s seemingly friendly approach. Their main concern is minimizing payouts, not your complete recovery. Even if they seem cooperative, having appropriate legal support is necessary. Insurance adjusters might pressure you into accepting a settlement below fair value before you fully know the intensity of your injuries and their long-term effects. Bicycle accident cases require an accurate assessment to determine the true value of your claim. As in your case, ongoing medical treatment, lost wages and pain and suffering are some factors that can be considered.
Myth: The police report says I’m partially at fault, so I can’t sue
The Golden State’s comparative negligence rule means you can still receive compensation even if you are determined to be partially responsible. Don’t let a police report discourage you from pursuing your legal rights. Such reports may contain inaccuracies or provide an incomplete picture of the incident. Enlisting proper legal intervention may uncover factors you hadn’t considered, such as poor road design or obscured signage, that could shift more liability onto other parties.
Myth: It’s not worth pursuing a case because Los Angeles isn’t bike-friendly
While it’s true that L.A. has room for improvement in terms of cycling infrastructure, this doesn’t mean you should give up on seeking justice after an accident. In fact, lawsuits can be a powerful tool for driving change. Successful cases can put pressure on city officials to improve road safety and may even lead to policy changes that benefit all cyclists. Moreover, California law recognizes cyclists’ rights to use the road.
Navigating the legal landscape after a bicycle accident can be challenging. Your physical and financial recovery can depend on taking legal action as proactively as possible. Remember, your rights as a cyclist matter. Seeking personalized legal guidance is a great way to get started.