Being active in California is common. Wanting to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather and scenery while getting a good workout is something that many residents of the golden state do on a regular basis. Of all of the activities Californians can choose from, one of the most favorite outdoor pastimes is riding a bike.
Young children, teens, and adults can not only enjoy this leisurely activity but also gain the healthful advantage of breathing in the fresh air and working their bodies. Still, riding one’s bike does come with unique perils, especially when around automobiles.
After a traffic accident in California, like a bicycle accident, seeking medical treatment is necessary to help one recover from physical bodily harm. In the San Fernando Valley area, bicycle accidents happen all too often and, when a bicyclist is hit by a car, it is often the driver of the car who was responsible for causing the collision.
After medical treatment, victims of bicycle accidents in California that would like to pursue an injury claim can call the Los Angeles personal injury attorney at the Leiva Law Firm for assistance.
Bicycle Accidents In California
Because of the lack of sufficient protection surrounding a bicyclist, they can suffer great physical bodily harm when they are in any type of accident. When cyclists are hit by cars, in particular, the extent of injury that a rider sustains can be catastrophic. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, in 2019, there were 133 deaths from bicycle accidents in the state of California.
While riding a bike has always been a popular activity, after the pandemic hit, there was a rise in the number of people riding their bikes. In June 2020, there was a significant increase in bicycle usage, with riders up by 26% across the nation.
When it comes to bicycle riding and safety, California ranks in the top 10 most dangerous states for bicyclists. California is also in the top ten list of states that have the most deaths from bicycle accidents per capita.
There are several things that a bicyclist can do to minimize their risk of a devastating and life-threatening crash. First, wearing a helmet is the most important piece of safety gear a bicyclist has at their disposal. Due to the trauma that the head can suffer in a crash, wearing a bicycle helmet is a good idea. However, in California, you are only required to wear a helmet if you are a rider under the age of 18. Other actions that can help include avoiding driving at dusk, dawn, and at night. Never drive intoxicated and always be alert to your surroundings. Wearing a blinking light, having reflectors on your bike, and wearing brightly colored clothing can make a bicyclist more visible so cars can better identify them on the road.
Speak with a Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney Today
To cover one’s losses and damages after a bicycle accident, pursuing financial compensation is imperative. For more information about your bicycle accident and to find out if you can file a personal injury claim for compensation, call the Leiva Law Firm at (818) 519-4465. The Leiva Law Firm offers free consultations so don’t delay.
