Bicycle Accident

Generally, bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries and in extreme cases, even death. Despite the many rules and regulations in place to protect bicyclists as much as possible, accidents still do happen due to a myriad of reasons. Because bicycles do not offer the same level of protection as vehicles, bicyclists are susceptible to extreme injuries and even death in the event of an accident. Think about it – bicyclists do not have the steel shell for protection like vehicles, nor do they have seatbelts or airbags. Therefore, bicyclists have a heightened risk of extreme repercussions.

In busy cities like Manhattan Beach and other parts of Southern California, you will see many bicyclists on a daily basis. It is a great, eco-friendly way to get from point A to point B. Additionally, it is an excellent way to get some exercise while you’re at it. 

Although riding a bicycle has many great benefits, it is also important to understand the risks associated with it. If you or a loved one have been involved in a bicycle accident and need legal guidance, our team at Sullivan & Sullivan is here to help every step of the way. With years of experience fighting on behalf of our clients in order to obtain the full and fair settlement or verdict that they deserve, we are confident that we can help you, too. Contact our team at Sullivan & Sullivan for a free consultation with a highly experienced bicycle accident attorney in Manhattan Beach.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Unfortunately, there are many common causes that can lead to a bicycle accident. Some of the most common causes of a bicycle accident include:

• Dooring accidents: A dooring accident occurs when a bicyclist crashes into a parked car that has its door opened in the bike path. This is certainly more common on busy streets with heightened traffic, which forces bicyclists to ride much closer to parked cars. It is important to know that the drivers are responsible to check for cars or bicyclists before opening their vehicle’s doors. These types of accidents can be extremely dangerous and detrimental, often resulting in the bicyclist veering into traffic or slamming into the door, causing serious injuries and even fatalities in extreme cases.

• Distracted driving/riding: Distracted driving and/or riding are also common causes of bicycle accidents. As a driver or rider, it is absolutely critical that you pay attention to the road at all times. Distractions such as using your smartphone while driving or riding can lead to a serious accident.

• Unsafe lane changes: Something as simple as an unsafe lane change can result in serious repercussions. This is usually a result of a driver making an unsafe lane change and merging into the bicyclist's lane without ensuring that it is safe to do so.

• Unsafe turn collisions: Oftentimes, drivers will make a right-hand turn or a left-turn without ensuring that it is clear to do so. When there is a bicyclist present on either side of the car while the driver is making an unsafe turn, this can result in a “right hook” collision or left-turn collision.

As a driver or bicyclist, it is extremely important that you stay vigilant at all times. These types of accidents can result in serious injuries and fatalities. If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident caused by the negligence or misconduct of another driver, contact our team at Sullivan & Sullivan for the legal guidance you need in order to protect your rights. Our extremely talented team is here to help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Contact a Manhattan Beach Bicycle Accident Attorney

At Sullivan & Sullivan, our team has provided bicycle accident victims with legal representation for over 20 years. We understand that dealing with such injuries is never easy, but we are here to help alleviate your stresses so you can focus on recovering. If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident caused by a driver, we are here to help every step of the way. Contact our team for a free case evaluation with an experienced Manhattan Beach bicycle accident lawyer.