Sideswiped by a Car: California Bicycle Accident Lawyer Explains Rights

Here in California, our weather is conducive to cycling for much of the year. With the continued trend in cycling, accidents involving bicycles continue to rise. As some of the most vulnerable individuals sharing the road, bicyclists are protected under many laws here. And yet, accidents do happen and the cyclist is often the one to sustain the most life-changing injuries. One of the most common ways that this happens is a sideswipe accident.  If you or a loved one were seriously injured in a bicycle accident, ask our Los Angeles sideswipe bicycle accident lawyer for help with your claim.

A sideswipe accident can happen when the side of a motor vehicle comes into contact with a cyclist as they are moving in the same direction. An extremely dangerous situation, it is a clear violation of California’s bicycle passing laws. Due to the size and weight difference, even a slight graze by a car can cause a cyclist to lose control and become seriously injured. These accidents can be due to a number of conditions but are most commonly caused by a negligent driver, leading to injuries such as the following:

• Bone fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Lacerations
• Back injuries including disc herniations, slipped discs, annular tears, bulging discs, and other injuries
• Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
• Amputations
• Paralysis such as paraplegia or quadriplegia
• Organ injuries
• Dislocations or separations, particularly of the shoulder
• Wrongful death, and
• Many other serious or catastrophic personal injuries.

Because of the increased exposure and vulnerability of a bicyclist, injuries and fatalities are high when cars come into contact with a bicycle in a sideswipe situation. The at-fault party can be held responsible for injuries to a cyclist. Having the advice and guidance of an experienced Los Angeles sideswipe bicycle accident lawyer is critical if you have been injured in an accident. For more information and a FREE case review, contact us today at (888) 588-1777.  We are ready and willing to help.