Bicycles have become a popular method of transportation for people of all ages. According to Zippia.com, 17-20 million bikes were sold in 2022. The increase in riders was visible in California, where bicycles and motorcycles have become a source of entertainment, exercise, and transportation for city workers and college students.
Ranked number four on the Bicycle Friendly States report from the League of American Bicyclists, California has promoted education and funding for bike safety since its introduction of bike lanes in the 1960s. They introduced bike laws, road signs, and other precautions to encourage cycling. But even with these safety measures, bike accidents still happen and cause much damage if improperly handled. If you are unsure what to do after a bicycle accident, contact Avrek Law for help through every step of the process.
How to Prepare for an Accident
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), there were 938 bicycle fatalities in the U.S. in 2020. Motorcycle riders also saw an increase in fatalities, with 5,932 deaths in 2021. While some accidents are not fully preventable, the National Security Council reported 1,260 preventable bicycle deaths in 2020. Following the proper road safety can help keep you and others safe while riding. Some safety precautions include:
- Follow the proper bicycle safety regulations in your state. The California bicycle helmet law requires anyone under 18 to wear a helmet. However, regardless of age, it’s highly recommended that all wear a fitted helmet while riding.
- Register your bicycle in your city.
- Check your brakes and use reflectors when night riding.
- Have the proper bicycle accident insurance if available.
- Have easy access to a reputable law firm like Avrek Law.
While insurance is one of the top preventative measures, it is not available for pedal cyclists. However, you can still receive compensation for your accident. Talking with a trusted bicycle accident lawyer like those at Avrek Law in San Francisco can help you determine the right course of action for your case.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), over 10,000 injuries are caused by bicycle accidents annually due to unsafe driving and riding practices. In the event of a bicycle accident, seeking immediate medical attention and collaborating with the other party to establish the appropriate course of action is crucial. Nevertheless, certain accidents can escalate into a “hit-and-run” scenario, where the offending vehicle departs the scene without providing assistance or contact information. Hit-and-run accidents can transpire for a variety of reasons.
- Cars and SUVs not paying attention to bike lanes on the street
- Biker or car not following the red signal lights
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Because some of the most common bike injuries include head injuries like a TBI (traumatic brain injury), it can be difficult to manage all the accident details of a hit-and-run bike accident alone. Working with a knowledgeable bicycle accidents lawyer attorney to receive the proper bike accident compensation will be beneficial in these cases.
Unsure What to Do After a Bicycle Accident? Call Avrek Law.
Not knowing what to do after a bicycle accident or what steps to take after a motorcycle accident can become frustrating and overwhelming without the right help. Avrek Law has some of the best personal injury attorneys, including bicycle accident lawyers in Newport Beach, to assist you with your personal injury case. Their expertise has led to the recovery of more than $1 billion in compensation for over 45,000 cases, including bike accidents. Receive the bike accident compensation you deserve by working with a reputable law firm like Avrek Law. Get started with a free consultation today!
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