Bicycling is a popular activity in Inglewood for commuting, exercise, or leisure. While the city offers a relatively bike-friendly environment, bicycle accidents are all too common. As an injured cyclist, you may face physical pain, emotional trauma, and mounting medical expenses. At JML Law, APLC, our experienced Inglewood bicycle accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Inglewood
Bicycle accidents often occur due to the negligence of motorists, unsafe road conditions, or even defective bicycle equipment. Below are the most frequent causes:
- Driver Negligence: Many accidents happen because drivers fail to notice cyclists or give them the right of way. Common examples include distracted driving, speeding, or running red lights.
- Dooring Incidents: A driver opening their car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist can result in severe injuries.
- Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, or insufficient signage can make cycling dangerous.
- Impaired Driving: Accidents caused by drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol remain a major concern.
- Defective Bike Components: Malfunctioning brakes, tires, or gears can lead to a loss of control and serious accidents.
What Injuries Are Common in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents often lead to significant injuries because cyclists lack the protection of a vehicle. The most common injuries include:
- Head Injuries: These range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Cyclists may suffer partial or complete paralysis.
- Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or collarbones are typical.
- Internal Injuries: These may involve organ damage or internal bleeding.
- Road Rash and Lacerations: These can lead to painful infections and permanent scarring.
The severity of these injuries often results in long recovery periods, high medical bills, and loss of income. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 850 bicyclists were killed in the U.S. in 2020, while thousands more sustained injuries.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Inglewood
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, taking the following steps can protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Some injuries may not immediately show symptoms, even if you feel fine.
- Call the Police: A police report can serve as valuable evidence for your case.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of your injuries, your bicycle, the other vehicle, and the accident scene.
- Collect Information: Gather the driver’s contact and insurance details and the names of any witnesses.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid discussing blame with anyone at the scene.
- Contact an Attorney: Speaking with an experienced Inglewood bicycle accident attorney can ensure your rights are protected.
How an Inglewood Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Handling a personal injury case can be overwhelming, especially when you’re focused on recovering from your injuries. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Inglewood can provide invaluable assistance by:
- Investigating Your Case: We will collect evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts. We will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Calculating Damages: This includes medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses related to your injury.
- Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we will take your case to court to secure justice.
What Compensation Can You Receive
The compensation you may be entitled to depends on the specifics of your case but typically includes:
- Medical Expenses: Covers hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Includes current and future income lost due to your inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Reflects the physical and emotional toll of your injuries.
- Property Damage: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle.
- Punitive Damages: In extreme negligence cases, additional damages may be awarded.
Why Choose JML Law, APLC
At JML Law, APLC, we understand the challenges faced by injured cyclists. With decades of experience handling personal injury cases, our team has a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. We are committed to fighting for justice and ensuring that negligent parties are held accountable.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong case. Contact our skilled Inglewood bicycle accident lawyers today to discuss your situation.
Call us at 818-610-8800 to schedule your free consultation. We are here to provide the support and advocacy you need to recover and move forward with confidence.
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