In Los Angeles, Combating Hit-and-Run Accidents That Leave Injured Cyclists

Los Angeles cyclists are calling for stricter hit-and-run laws for cars that collide with bicycles, according to KPCC. In 2008, there were 10 fatal bike-related injuries and 97 serious injuries requiring hospitalization in Los Angeles.

Although law enforcement budget cuts have made investigation of hit-and-run accidents difficult, the LAPD is considering setting up a website to allow cyclists to report traditionally non-reportable incidents. These reports would have the potential to prompt an LAPD investigation.

Police are also working with bike advocates to put together a list of the top 10 locations in the city where the most hit-and-run accidents occur. Supposedly, LAPD officers will receive special training on how to handle hit-and-runs between cars and bikes. The LAPD also says it will help spread awareness among the cycling community about cyclists’ rights.

Collisions between cars and bikes happen easily in Southern California, especially since drivers do not always anticipate cyclists, and often do not see them. Injuries from these accidents have to potential to be severe, due to the difference in size, weight, and speed between a car and bicycle. Despite the availability of helmets and protective padding, a cyclist may fare even worse than a pedestrian in a collision with an automobile, because the speed of the bicycle is added to the speed of the car in measuring the force of the impact.

Drivers and cyclists alike owe a duty of care to everyone with whom they share the road. If a driver or cyclist breaches the duty of care and causes injury to someone else on the road, he or she can be held liable for damages, including compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

Cyclists are subject to the same traffic laws and rules of the road as drivers of cars and motorcycles. Given their vulnerability, cyclists should be especially careful when riding near cars. They should ride predictably, such as by clearly signaling an intention to turn well ahead of time. Nevertheless, a cyclist who is negligent in causing an accident, or who incurs more serious injuries by not wearing a helmet or other safety gear, can still recover a portion of damages from a driver whose negligence caused or contributed to the accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or bicycle accident, seek advice from experienced personal injury lawyers. In Southern California, contact the law firm of Fisher & Talwar for immediate assistance.