Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyers

In Los Angeles and the rest of the state of California, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers, per the law. As such, cyclists are entitled to the same level of care as other drivers on the road.

California law also allows for bicycle accident lawsuits to be pursued even if the cyclist may have been partially at fault for the accident. The courts may consider these cases based on what is called “comparative negligence.” This simply means that those partially at fault can file a claim for compensation, although any awarded compensation may be reduced according to their percentage of responsibility.

Local Bicycle Helmet Laws

California Vehicle Code 21212 requires all bicyclists under the age of 18 to wear helmets while riding. While adults are not required by law to wear helmets, it is still highly recommended that they do so. Nearly 90% of bicyclist deaths involve riders who were not wearing helmets, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Most Dangerous Intersections in Los Angeles for Bicyclists

Although bicycle accident rates in Los Angeles County have been on a steady decline since 2017, there were still more than 1,800 bicycle collisions across the area in 2021, resulting in 27 fatalities. Los Angeles County typically sees more than triple the amount of bicycle accidents as neighboring counties like Orange County, San Diego County, and Riverside County. 

The most dangerous intersections in Los Angeles for bicyclists include:

• Sepulveda Boulevard and Sherman Way
• Manchester Avenue and Figueroa Street
• Main Street and E 1st Street
• Sepulveda and Burbank Boulevard
• Olive Street and W 7th Street
• Hill Street and W 5th Street
• Wall Street and E 4th Street
• Los Angeles Street and W 7th Street

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Los Angeles for Bicyclists

According to recent traffic collision data from the LAPD, Downtown Los Angeles is overwhelmingly the most dangerous place in the city for bicyclists, far outpacing all other neighborhoods in Los Angeles for the greatest number of bicycle accidents each year.

Behind DTLA, neighborhoods with the highest number of bicycle accidents include:

• Historic South Central
• Koreatown
• Van Nuys
• Venice
• Hollywood
• Westlake
• Pico Union
• North Hollywood
• Boyle Heights

Why Los Angeles Is a Hotspot for Bike Accidents

Bicycle accidents are common in Los Angeles. The reasons for this are multifaceted, but some contributing factors include the sheer volume of cars and bicycles on the road, as well as the lack of designated bike lanes and safe cycling infrastructure. Additionally, Los Angeles drivers are notorious for reckless driving and inattention, which can lead to dangerous collisions. 

Experts suggest that increased education and awareness around bicycle safety, as well as more investment in bike-friendly infrastructure, could help reduce the number of accidents and create a safer environment for all road users. According to a study analyzing a dozen major cities in the U.S., cities with protected and separated bicycle lanes had 44% fewer bicycle fatalities when compared to an average city. 

Proud Advocates for Injured Bicyclists

At Wisner Baum, we are passionate bicycle safety advocates with a track record of success litigating cases on behalf of victims and their families. If you sustained serious injuries in a bicycle accident involving a car, bus, or truck, it is important that you speak with an experienced bike accident attorney as soon as you are able.

Our lawyers are recognized throughout the nation by multiple industry organizations, from the Elite Trial Lawyers and the National Trial Lawyers to U.S. News — Best Lawyers® and the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Put experienced lawyers on your side.