Los Angeles is known for its sunny skies, palm-lined streets, and active outdoor lifestyle. Thousands of cyclists take to the streets daily, whether for exercise, commuting, or simply enjoying the city.

But Los Angeles also has a darker side for cyclists: some of the most dangerous roads in America for bike riders.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles, you already know how quickly a peaceful ride can turn into a nightmare. From careless drivers to poorly maintained roads, cyclists face constant risks. When crashes happen, injuries are often severe — and insurance companies fight hard to limit payouts.

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we’ve been fighting for injury victims across Los Angeles since 1987. Our mission is simple: to hold negligent drivers, businesses, and city agencies accountable — and to get injured cyclists the maximum compensation they deserve.

This guide explains everything you need to know if you were hurt in a bike crash in Los Angeles: your legal rights, who may be held liable, what damages you can recover, and why hiring an aggressive bicycle accident lawyer can make the difference between pennies and justice.

Bicycle Accidents Are on the Rise in Los Angeles

Cycling in Los Angeles can feel like playing a dangerous game. Despite city efforts to expand bike lanes, L.A. consistently ranks among the top U.S. cities for traffic-related bicycle injuries and fatalities.

Some facts that highlight the dangers:

• Los Angeles recorded more than 1,500 bicycle crashes in recent years, many involving severe injuries.

• Most fatal bicycle accidents happen at intersections where drivers fail to yield.

• Distracted driving, speeding, and DUI are leading causes of cyclist deaths in L.A. County.

Unlike drivers, cyclists have no protective shell. When a two-ton vehicle collides with a person on a bike, the results are devastating:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

• Broken bones, fractures, and dislocations

• Spinal cord damage and paralysis

• Severe road rash and scarring

• Wrongful death in the most tragic cases

If you’ve been hurt, your focus should be on healing — not battling insurance adjusters. That’s where an experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer steps in.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Bicycle Accident in Los Angeles?

One of the first questions injured cyclists ask is: Who’s at fault for my crash? The answer depends on how and where the accident occurred.

In Los Angeles, responsibility may fall on:

1. Negligent Drivers

Most bike accidents involve careless motorists. Common driver negligence includes:

• Failing to yield at intersections

• Opening car doors into bike lanes (“dooring accidents”)

• Distracted driving (texting, GPS use, eating)

• Speeding or running red lights

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

2. Commercial Vehicles

Delivery trucks, rideshare vehicles, and buses often pose additional hazards. When a company-employed driver causes a crash, the company may also be liable under California law.

3. Government Entities

Some accidents aren’t caused by drivers at all — but by dangerous road conditions. If a broken pavement, missing signage, or poorly designed bike lane caused your accident, you may be able to file a claim against the City of Los Angeles or Caltrans.

⚠️ Warning: Claims against government agencies in California have very short deadlines (as little as 6 months to file a notice of claim).

4. Bicycle & Parts Manufacturers

If a defective bike part (like brakes, tires, or frames) contributed to your crash, the manufacturer may be held liable under product liability law.

California Bicycle Laws Every Cyclist Should Know

California has specific laws designed to protect cyclists. Knowing these can help prove negligence after a crash.

• California Vehicle Code §21200 – Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.

• Three-Foot Law (§21760) – Drivers must leave at least three feet of space when passing a bicycle.

• Bike Lane Law (§21208) – Cyclists must use bike lanes when available, but drivers may not obstruct or drive in them.

• Helmet Law – Riders under 18 must wear helmets; adults are strongly encouraged.

When drivers violate these rules, they may be automatically considered negligent in an injury claim.

What To Do After a Bicycle Accident in Los Angeles

The steps you take immediately after a crash can determine whether your claim succeeds or fails.

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request police presence. A police report is critical evidence.

2. Get Medical Help – Even if you think you’re okay, injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not show right away.

3. Document the Scene – Take photos of your bike, the vehicle, skid marks, traffic signals, and your injuries.

4. Get Driver & Witness Info – Obtain names, contact info, license plates, and insurance details.

5. Preserve Evidence – Keep your damaged bike, helmet, and clothing. They may prove the severity of the crash.

6. Do Not Give a Statement to Insurance – Adjusters will twist your words to deny or minimize your claim.

7. Call The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus – Our bike accident lawyers in Los Angeles will launch an immediate investigation and protect your rights.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Bicycle Accident?

If another party’s negligence caused your crash, you may be entitled to full financial compensation, including:

• Medical bills (emergency treatment, surgery, therapy, medication)

• Lost wages if you missed work

• Loss of future earning capacity if your injuries limit your career

• Pain and suffering for physical and emotional trauma

• Property damage (bike replacement and gear)

• Wrongful death damages if you lost a loved one in a bike accident

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we don’t settle for quick, low offers. We fight for maximum compensation so you can rebuild your life.

Challenges in Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Claims

Bicycle accident cases in L.A. are rarely simple. Some of the biggest obstacles include:

• Insurance Company Denials – Insurers often blame cyclists, claiming they “weren’t visible” or “failed to yield.”

• Comparative Negligence in California – Even if you were partly at fault, you can still recover damages — but insurers will exaggerate your fault to reduce payouts.

• City & Government Immunity – Suing a city requires strict compliance with California’s Tort Claims Act deadlines.

• Severe Injuries with Long-Term Costs – Insurers routinely undervalue future medical care and lost earning potential.

Our attorneys know these tactics — and we know how to beat them.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus?

Since 1987, Gerald Marcus and his team have built a reputation as relentless advocates for Los Angeles injury victims. We’ve represented thousands of clients across Southern California, securing millions in verdicts and settlements.

• ✅ Over 30 years of experience in personal injury law

• ✅ Aggressive litigation strategies that force insurers to pay fair value

• ✅ Local knowledge of L.A. courts, judges, and juries

• ✅ No fees unless we win — you don’t pay a dime unless we recover money for you

When you hire us, you don’t just get a lawyer — you get a battle-tested team that refuses to back down until you get justice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles

Q: What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
You can still recover compensation, but the defense may argue you were partly at fault for your injuries.

Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
Most bicycle accident cases in California must be filed within 2 years of the crash. Claims against government agencies must be filed within 6 months.

Q: What if the driver fled the scene?
If you were the victim of a hit-and-run, you may still recover damages through your uninsured motorist coverage or through aggressive investigation by our firm.

Q: How much is my case worth?
Every case is different. Factors include medical bills, lost income, severity of injuries, and whether permanent disability is involved.

Protect Your Rights After a Bicycle Accident in Los Angeles

If you’ve been injured while riding a bicycle in Los Angeles, you’re facing a tough road — but you don’t have to face it alone. Insurance companies will fight to minimize your claim. The city will hide behind legal immunity. Defendants will try to shift blame onto you.

That’s why you need a Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer who fights aggressively for results.

Call The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus Today

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we don’t make excuses — we make results. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Los Angeles bike accident, let us fight for you.

📞 Call (818) 784-8544 now
or
💻 Contact us online for a FREE case evaluation.

We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and start building a powerful claim for maximum compensation.

We Fight For You

Cycling in Los Angeles shouldn’t be a gamble with your life. If a negligent driver, careless business, or unsafe road caused your injuries, you deserve justice. At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we’ve been protecting Los Angeles injury victims for nearly four decades — and we’re ready to protect you too.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears, deadlines expire, and insurers move fast. Call us today and put a proven Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer on your side.