With more Californians taking to the road and paths via bicycle, bicycle accidents are on the rise. There are many common causes of bicycle accidents with a motor vehicle, and most of the common causes are all due to the reckless, careless, and negligent causes of a motorist.  Our experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyers explain some of these common issues so that you can better protect yourself and your family.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in California

California laws afford a cyclist the same right of way as other vehicles when a designated bike lane isn’t available. And that creates problems for many when it comes to road sharing, especially given the vulnerability of the cyclist in an accident.

Most bicycle accidents in California are caused by a few things:

• Road conditions — All it takes is a dangerous roadway condition for a cyclist to become unbalanced with the potential of colliding with a car.
• Getting doored — When a bicyclist comes into contact with an open car door, it can mean serious injuries for the cyclist.
• Getting sideswiped — Both accidental and intentional, cyclists commonly get pushed off the road and many sustain serious injuries as a result.
• Cars that fail to yield — Many accidents result from a driver’s failure to give a bicyclist ample space to ride safely.
• Driveway or side street intersections — Unfortunately, cars leaving driveways or entering intersections via side streets are an increasing problem.
• Vehicle striking a cyclist from behind — When a car overtakes a cyclist and fails to stop in time, the cyclist can be thrown over the handlebars.

There are many other causes, but these are some of the most common that cyclists should be particularly aware about in order to protect their rights to compensation under California law.  When you are injured in a bicycle accident, you should consult with a Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer to discuss compensation for your injuries. For more information and a FREE case review, contact us today at (888) 588-1777.  We are ready and willing to help.