Santa Monica Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicycle Accident Attorney in Santa Monica, CA
Santa Monica’s bike-friendly streets, scenic coastal paths, and dedicated bike lanes make it a popular destination for cyclists. However, sharing the road with cars, trucks, and buses still presents significant risks. Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries, especially when negligent drivers fail to yield, make unsafe turns, or open car doors without checking for cyclists. California law protects cyclists and allows them to seek compensation when another party’s negligence causes harm.
Recovering from a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, with medical expenses, lost income, and physical pain creating additional stress. At Setareh Law, we represent injured cyclists in Santa Monica, working to hold negligent drivers accountable. We understand the unique challenges cyclists face and may be able to help you seek fair compensation for your injuries.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Santa Monica
Bicycle accidents often happen due to driver negligence, poor road conditions, or defective bike parts. One of the most common causes is when drivers fail to notice cyclists in traffic. Many drivers neglect to check their blind spots, especially when changing lanes or making turns, leading to dangerous collisions.
“Dooring” accidents are also a frequent hazard in Santa Monica. When parked drivers open their car doors without checking for approaching cyclists, the impact can throw the rider into oncoming traffic or cause serious injuries upon impact. California law requires drivers to check before opening their doors, but many fail to do so, leading to avoidable crashes.
Distracted driving is another major issue. Motorists who text, talk on the phone, or use in-car navigation systems may not see cyclists until it’s too late. Other contributing factors include speeding, reckless driving, and road hazards such as potholes or debris, all of which increase the risk of serious bicycle accidents.
Determining Liability in a Bicycle Accident Case
Liability in a bicycle accident case depends on proving that another party acted negligently. In many cases, a driver is at fault for failing to follow traffic laws, yield the right of way, or operate their vehicle safely. However, responsibility may extend beyond the driver to include other parties.
For example, if a bicycle accident occurs due to poorly maintained roads, the city or municipality responsible for road maintenance may be liable. Likewise, if a defective bike part, such as faulty brakes or tires, contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be responsible for damages. Identifying all responsible parties is crucial to ensuring a victim receives full and fair compensation.
California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning a cyclist may still recover damages even if they are found partially at fault. However, their compensation may be reduced based on their level of responsibility. Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame onto cyclists, making legal representation essential to counter these tactics.
Compensation Available for Injured Cyclists
Bicycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The extent of compensation depends on the severity of injuries, the cost of ongoing medical treatment, and the impact on the victim’s daily life and ability to work.
Long-term or permanent injuries may require additional compensation for rehabilitation, assistive devices, and home modifications. In cases where an accident results in a fatality, the victim’s family may have grounds for a wrongful death claim, which can provide financial relief for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and emotional suffering.
Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims for less than what victims truly need. They may downplay injuries, delay payments, or attempt to shift blame. Working with a bicycle accident lawyer can help ensure that victims receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses.
How Can Setareh Law Help With Your Case?
Bicycle accident cases require thorough investigations, strong evidence, and skilled legal representation to ensure fair compensation. At Setareh Law, Our Santa Monica personal injury lawyer represents injured cyclists in Santa Monica, handling every aspect of their case so they can focus on recovery. We may be able to help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue legal action against negligent parties.
Our team is committed to protecting the rights of cyclists and holding at-fault drivers accountable. Whether your accident was caused by a reckless driver, unsafe road conditions, or a defective bicycle, we are prepared to fight for the best possible outcome. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Call (310) 659-1826 or fill out our contact form to discuss your case.
Setareh Law, APLC
