Cohen Law PartnersLos Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer | Personal Injury Attorney2024-03-28T11:46:09Zhttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/feed/atom/WordPressOn Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511522024-03-28T11:46:09Z2024-03-28T11:46:09Z77%, of bicycle fatalities in LA County have occurred on multi-lane roads. These roads, often with three or more lanes in each direction, seem ideal for motorized vehicles, and antithetical to bicyclist safety.
The role of infrastructure in cyclist safety
The lack of adequate infrastructure for cyclists is stark. An astonishing 85% of bicycle fatalities in 2022 happened on roadways without designated bike lanes. Ensuring the safety of cyclists involves the creation of more bike lanes and the thoughtful integration of these lanes into the city's broader transportation framework.
Notable areas that need immediate attention
Certain areas have been identified as particularly hazardous for cyclists, including East Anaheim Street in Long Beach, Martin Luther King Jr Blvd & Figueroa Street in Los Angeles, Figueroa Street in Downtown LA and Avenues H & J in Lancaster. These locations have seen a concerning number of collisions and represent immediate areas for intervention to enhance cyclist safety.
A multifaceted approach is required to improve bicycle safety in Los Angeles. This includes lowering speed limits, expanding the bike lane network, enhancing road design to accommodate all users, and implementing targeted safety measures in high-risk areas.
Until safety is vastly improved, bicyclists remain at unacceptable risk of serious crashes. Victims may ultimately opt to pursue a compensation claim to cover their damages from liable parties. This can include the cost of medical care, lost wages or other damages. A legal representative can help victims determine how to proceed with their claim, including determining the actual damages they should seek.]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511512024-03-27T11:52:59Z2024-03-27T11:52:59ZBicyclists in the Los Angeles area count on bike lanes to help them remain as safe as possible, but some were worried that the parking spaces lost when bike lanes were created would harm businesses. As it turns out, that’s a largely unfounded concern. This information comes at the perfect time because the news of bike lanes coming to Hollywood Boulevard has recently come to light. Merchants along that strip won’t have to worry about taking a financial hit as the city takes steps to improve safety for bicyclists and pedestrians.
“Access to Hollywood” is on the fast track
The “Access to Hollywood” plan is set to have bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and bus lanes installed by early 2025. Bike lanes are planned from La Brea Avenue to Fountain Avenue. This is huge news for the area because Hollywood Boulevard is part of what’s been dubbed the “High Injury Network,” which encompasses only 6% of the city streets, but 70% of severe injuries and deaths for pedestrians. One of the primary issues with the Hollywood Boulevard stretch of road is the high speeds of vehicles. Around 76% of respondents of a survey regarding the Hollywood Blvd Safety and Mobility Project said the high speeds made them feel unsafe, and 87% noted that safety improvements here are important. All of the safety improvements for bicyclists will only be effective if drivers take the time to slow down and give bicyclists the respect and space they’re due. Unfortunately, drivers don’t always do that, which puts bicyclists at risk of catastrophic injuries. Those victims may opt to pursue a compensation claim against the negligent driver to offset the financial damages they’re facing. ]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511502024-03-22T23:36:45Z2024-03-22T23:36:45ZWhat the failed law could have changed
The Safe Passage for Bikes Act aimed to improve cyclist safety by changing rules about sidewalk use. In many areas, it is illegal for cyclists to ride on sidewalks. Instead, because bikes are vehicles, cyclists should ride in the street.
Ideally, cyclists can plan routes where they can occupy bike lanes. When there are no bike lanes present, they have to share the road with motor vehicles. If the governor had signed the Safe Passage for Bikes Act into law, cyclists on streets without bike lanes could potentially ride on the sidewalks. The law would have decriminalized riding a bicycle on the sidewalk, giving cyclists more options and reducing unnecessary arrests.
Unfortunately, the governor decided that safety considerations for pedestrians and others on sidewalks outweighed the needs of cyclists. His letter vetoing the Act outlined his objections and highlighted how the current administration has invested in improved safety infrastructure for cyclists.
Could 2024 see a similar proposal?
California state lawmakers frequently make small adjustments to rejected bills and then seek to convert them into state statutes when prior attempts at similar legislation have failed. For many state lawmakers, cyclist safety is a priority for them because it directly affects their constituents.
However, given the governor's opposition to not the nuance of the bill but the very premise of the Act, lawmakers in 2024 may focus on other ways to improve traffic safety rather than changing the laws that apply to cyclists riding on the sidewalk. State lawmakers often have a hard time gathering enough support to pass a bill, let alone override a Governor's veto on a bill that legislators previously approved.
Complying with the law can help people avoid dangerous collisions, so filing a personal injury lawsuit might be a reasonable reaction to a cycling crash. Given how cyclists often bear the brunt of the consequences in a collision between a motor vehicle and a bicycle, holding a driver accountable is often wise after a preventable cycling collision occurs.]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511372024-03-13T13:28:34Z2024-03-13T13:28:34ZAs you go about your day, it’s very likely that you have been caught on CCTV cameras at least once or twice. You may even have been caught on someone else’s video recording without realizing. Technology has made it easier to record and document events in real time.
This may sound scary, but it can actually be helpful in some cases. Cyclists are increasingly utilizing helmet cameras as a safety device. Here’s why you may want to consider using one.
They capture evidence
Unfortunately, not all drivers behave according to the law, and cyclists often take the brunt of this. Aggression from drivers toward cyclists has been well-documented, and it can result in serious accidents. Having a helmet camera on means that the cyclists can capture any incidents from start to finish. This can prove to be valuable evidence in both criminal and civil legal proceedings.
They act as a preventative measure
Another potential benefit of wearing a helmet camera is that they can act as a deterrent. Not only may drivers be discouraged from speeding and making unsafe turns, but they might cease acting aggressively if they realize they are on camera.
They provide useful insight
Another role of helmet cameras is that they can help with educational courses for both drivers and cyclists. For example, incidents can be shown to drivers while they are learning and before they sit their tests. Video footage can also be shown to cyclists so that they know some of the most common hazards to look out for. As a cyclist, the reality is that you are much more exposed to serious injuries during an accident. If you have been injured in an accident, it’s important to explore your legal options. ]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511362024-03-06T22:50:03Z2024-03-06T22:50:03Zdooring incidents continue to happen with alarming regularity. Understanding the reasons behind this prevalence is crucial to raising awareness and preventing future accidents.
Inattention and lack of awareness
One of the primary factors contributing to dooring is driver inattention. In the moments before exiting their vehicle, drivers may be preoccupied with unbuckling seatbelts, checking phones or attending to passengers. This may lead to them overlooking cyclists approaching from behind. Additionally, the blind spots created by vehicle pillars can further hinder a driver's awareness of cyclists, especially those positioned closer to the door.
Improper door-opening technique
Another key reason for dooring incidents is drivers' incorrect technique when exiting their vehicles. The habit of simply reaching across the body to open the door, known as "near-side dooring," creates a dangerous zone for cyclists who may be traveling nearby. This practice significantly increases the risk of the door impacting a passing cyclist.
The adoption of the "Dutch Reach" technique can significantly reduce the risk of dooring. This method involves drivers using the hand furthest from the door to open it, naturally forcing them to turn their bodies and check their blind spot for approaching cyclists.
Infrastructure and road design
While driver behavior is a significant contributing factor, infrastructure and road design can also play a role in dooring incidents. Narrow lanes that force cyclists and vehicles to share limited space, or a lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure, can contribute to situations where cyclists are positioned close to car doors, increasing the risk of collision.
Investing in improved infrastructure, such as dedicated cycling lanes and wider roads with increased separation between cyclists and traffic, can mitigate the risk of dooring incidents. By prioritizing the safety of cyclists through infrastructure improvements and promoting safe driving practices, municipalities can create safer roads for all.
Dooring remains a common and dangerous threat for cyclists due to a combination of factors, including driver inattention, improper door-opening techniques and inadequate infrastructure. Cyclists who have been doored by an inattentive driver can benefit from seeking legal guidance to find out how to hold drivers accountable for their harm.]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511312024-02-27T12:18:21Z2024-02-27T12:18:21ZThere is an interesting phenomenon that happens when people are in the car. Many people begin to feel relatively anonymous. They assume that no one knows who they are and they feel disconnected from those around them.
In fact, this is sometimes linked to road rage. If someone knew they were going to be identified, would they act in the same manner? If they had to speak to the other person face-to-face, would they be as aggressive? They probably wouldn’t, but the issue is that the road rage driver isn’t looking at the other person as a person. Instead, they are essentially looking at them as a vehicle. This separation can lead to conflicts on the road.
Does this happen to cyclists?
Yes, this phenomenon does happen to cyclists. Many drivers will break the law and make passes that are dangerously close, for example, simply, because they know that they will be past the cyclist in a few seconds, and they assume no one will ever know. They’re willing to risk someone else’s life because they don’t think they’ll get caught.Additionally, there are drivers who tend to dislike cyclists as a group. They may act more aggressively around them because they don’t like to share the road. But this means that they are not considering those individual cyclists as people who could be injured in an accident. They are just looking at them as an “other” group that is an inconvenience to them as they drive.These psychological factors do make the roads more dangerous. If you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver, then you need to know how to seek financial compensation.
]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511302024-02-22T18:49:31Z2024-02-22T18:49:31ZWhat lawmakers suggest
E-bikes have been a hot topic among lawmakers in California in recent years. Much of the focus has been on financial incentives for ownership and proper rules for companies operating rental fleets of e-bikes. There haven't been any major rules put in place about operating e-bikes on public roads.
Currently, essentially anyone can operate an e-bike in California. That could potentially change if a new bill introduced in the State Assembly becomes law. The current language of the bill prohibits children under the age of 10 from writing e-bikes in any circumstance. Children over the age of 12 either need a driver's license or proof that they took an e-bike safety course and state-issued identification.
Effectively, the new bill would create an e-bike licensing system to ensure that those not yet old enough to legally drive larger motor vehicles don't go out on the roads while unfamiliar with traffic rules. Although the goal behind the proposed legislation is to protect children from severe collisions, there are concerns about some of the rules proposed.
Some cycling advocates do oppose the new bill and believe it would pose an undue burden on many families across the state. However, others point out how some of the high-profile fatal incidents in recent years involving e-bikes as evidence that such restrictions could serve the public good. For the time being, young adults can continue to ride e-bikes without taking any special steps, but that could soon change.]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511292024-02-14T18:52:22Z2024-02-14T18:52:22ZBefore hitting the road, make sure that kids are comfortable with the basics of biking. This includes starting, stopping, turning and using hand signals. Practicing these skills in a safe, traffic-free area will build their confidence and control over their bike.
Next steps
Once kids understand the basics of safe bike operation, they’ll need to learn the importance of wearing a helmet and other safety gear. Let them know that helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of a fall or collision. Teach kids to wear a helmet every time they ride, ensuring that it fits properly and is securely fastened. Additionally, knee and elbow pads can provide extra protection, especially for beginners.
Once kids are outfitted to ride, they’ll need to understand the rules that apply to them when they're on the road. This includes obeying traffic signals and signs, riding in the same direction as traffic and yielding to pedestrians. Teaching them to stay alert and make eye contact with drivers can also help in making safe crossings and turns.
Additionally, just as teens must be taught to avoid driving while distracted, children need to be taught that biking while distracted can lead to dangerous situations. Teach kids the importance of staying focused on the road and their surroundings. This means no texting, listening to music with headphones or anything else that could divert their attention from the potential dangers of road travel.
Finally, you’ll want to instill a sense of defensive biking in children. This means always being aware of their surroundings, anticipating the actions of others and being prepared to react safely. Encourage them to assume that drivers might not see them and to be cautious at intersections and driveways.
By teaching them that roads can be dangerous places, they’ll better understand why they have to be careful when riding. That can’t guarantee, however, that they won’t be hurt by a reckless or negligent driver. If that’s what you’re dealing with now, it’s crucial to know your rights to justice and compensation.
]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511272024-02-02T17:15:28Z2024-02-02T17:15:28ZSome breaks are far worse than others
Fractures can be drastically different from one situation to the next. Some people have a stable fracture. The bone doesn't move much, meaning that they can still use the affected body part. They likely only need a cast and to rest adequately to recover fully.
Other times, the force of impact causes far worse damage to the bone and the tissue around the bone. A compound or open fracture is perhaps the most dramatic kind of broken bone possible. The force of impact pushes the bone through the nearby musculature and skin, exposing it to open air. Individuals are then at risk of severe blood loss and also major infections.
Sometimes, someone on a bicycle experiences a twisting motion when a bone breaks. They might then develop a spiral fracture. Spiral fractures can be quite difficult to treat in part because the bone breaks into many, irregular pieces. A comminuted fracture is similar because the bone breaks into many pieces. Crushing injuries and extreme force might lead to a bone breaking in numerous different locations.
It may be impossible for someone to recover from a spiral, compound or comminuted fracture without surgery. Often, they may require implanted devices to reinforce the broken bone. Severe fractures require a longer recovery time. They also tend to generate far more medical expenses and have more of an impact on someone's quality of life after the initial injury.
The losses inspired by a severe fracture caused by a bicycle crash could extend well beyond what insurance covers. Those with catastrophic injuries after a bicycle crash may need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the driver at fault for the incident. Realizing that broken bones aren't always minor injuries may help people more effectively pursue compensation after a car-bicycle collision.]]>On Behalf of Cohen Law Partnershttps://www.losangelesbicycleattorney.com/?p=511252024-02-01T23:34:18Z2024-02-01T23:34:18ZA protected bike lane is one that separates bike traffic from vehicle traffic. After all, many cycling accidents happen because drivers enter the bike lane or simply refuse to give cyclists a proper amount of space when passing. A protected bike lane forces drivers to do so, reducing the odds of an accident and injuries.One way to create protected bike lanes is to put floating parking spaces on the outside of the lane, in between cyclists and the travel lane. But this is not an ideal solution. It does work when stationary cars are parked along the road, blocking moving traffic from interfering with the cyclists. But it can still be a problem because A) cyclists could be doored by people who are parking their cars and B) if no one is parked on the side of the road, it is no longer a protected lane.
Other tactics that are in use
To overcome this, cities will often use other vertical barriers to separate traffic. As long as there is a physical barrier in between the two lanes, it keeps riders safe.One example could be simply extending a curb so that it runs between the two lanes. In some cases, bollards or pylons are used. In other cases, the bike lane is physically higher than the travel next to it, creating a ledge that a car’s tire would strike if it drifted too far to the side of the lane.It is clear that protected bike lanes keep cyclists much safer, but they are not in use everywhere. Cyclists who have been struck and injured by negligent motorists must be well aware of their options to seek financial compensation for medical bills and other costs.]]>