Consistent Success
for Over 25 Years
for Over 25 Years
Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Attorneys | Bike Injury Lawyer Steven M. Sweat
Free Consultation — No Fee Unless We Win | Call 866-966-5240 | Se Habla Español
Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicycling is one of the most popular ways to commute, exercise, and explore the greater Los Angeles area. From the beachside paths of Venice and Santa Monica to the urban corridors of Downtown LA and the South Bay, cyclists share the road with millions of motor vehicles every day. Unfortunately, that shared space is often the setting for devastating collisions. When a negligent driver, a poorly maintained road, or a defective product causes a bicycle accident, the consequences for the rider can be catastrophic — and the legal path forward can be complex.
At Steven M. Sweat, Personal Injury Lawyers, APC, our Los Angeles bicycle accident attorneys have spent over 25 years fighting for the rights of injured cyclists throughout California. We have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of bicycle accident victims and their families, and we are prepared to put that experience to work for you. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bike crash, you deserve a lawyer who will investigate every angle, hold every responsible party accountable, and pursue the maximum compensation the law allows.
Table of Contents
- Bicycle Accident Statistics in California and Los Angeles
- Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
- Common Bicycle Accident Collision Scenarios
- Injuries Commonly Sustained in Bike Crashes
- What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in California
- Who Is Liable for a Bicycle Accident?
- Proving Fault in a Bicycle Accident Case
- Comparative Fault in California Bicycle Accidents
- Damages You Can Recover
- Electric Bicycle (E-Bike) Accidents
- Government Liability for Dangerous Road Conditions
- Why Hire an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Additional Resources
Bicycle Accident Statistics in California and Los Angeles {#statistics}
been supporting the rights of cyclists to use
California’s roadways freely and helping
those injured or killed in bike accidents
in Los Angeles and all
over the State of California
for over 20 years.
The scale of the bicycle accident problem in California is significant. According to the UC Berkeley SafeTREC 2025 Traffic Safety Facts, there were 145 bicyclists killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in California in 2023 — representing 3.6 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities in the state. [1] Nationally, 1,166 bicyclists were killed in crashes with motor vehicles in 2023, the highest number ever recorded by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). [2]
The following table summarizes key bicycle accident data for Southern California counties, based on collision data from 2017 to 2021:
| County | Total Collisions (2017–2021) |
| Los Angeles County | 14,965 |
| Orange County | 3,925 |
| San Diego County | 3,608 |
| Riverside County | 1,603 |
| San Bernardino County | 1,293 |
| Ventura County | 1,105 |
Source: University of California, Berkeley SafeTREC [1]
Additional key findings from the 2025 SafeTREC report include:
- Urban crashes accounted for 90 percent of all fatal bicycle crashes in California in 2023.
- Unsafe speed was the most common primary crash factor in bicycle fatal and serious injury crashes in 2023, making up 16.5 percent of all such crashes.
- Automobile right-of-way violations and improper turning were the second and third most common crash factors, accounting for 16.3 and 15 percent respectively.
- Principal arterials were the most common location for fatal bicycle crashes, accounting for 35 percent of all fatalities.
These numbers make clear that bicycle accidents are not rare events — they are a persistent public safety crisis in Los Angeles and throughout California. If you have been injured, you are not alone, and you have legal rights that our firm is prepared to defend.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents {#causes}
Most bicycle accidents are caused by the negligence of motor vehicle drivers. However, road defects, product failures, and even the actions of other cyclists or pedestrians can also contribute. Understanding the cause of your accident is the first step toward building a strong legal claim.
Driver-Related Causes:
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use, eating, adjusting the radio)
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Failure to yield the right-of-way to cyclists
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Failure to check mirrors before opening a car door (“dooring”)
- Making unsafe left or right turns without observing cyclists
- Tailgating or following too closely
Road and Environmental Causes:
- Potholes and uneven pavement
- Missing or inadequate bike lanes
- Poorly designed intersections
- Debris or gravel on the roadway
- Inadequate lighting on roads or paths
- Defective traffic signals or signage
Product-Related Causes:
- Defective bicycle components (brakes, handlebars, tires)
- Defective helmets or safety gear
- Defective e-bike motors or batteries
Common Bicycle Accident Collision Scenarios {#scenarios}
Certain types of collisions are particularly common in Los Angeles. Our attorneys have handled all of the following scenarios and know how to investigate and prove liability in each:
1. Left-Turn Accidents A driver turning left across oncoming traffic fails to see an approaching cyclist. Under California Vehicle Code (CVC) section 21801(a), drivers turning left must yield to all oncoming vehicles, including bicycles. These accidents are among the most dangerous because the cyclist is struck head-on or at the side.
2. “Dooring” Accidents A parked motorist or passenger opens a car door directly into the path of a passing cyclist. CVC section 22517 prohibits opening a vehicle door on the traffic side unless it is reasonably safe to do so. Dooring accidents can send cyclists flying over the door or into adjacent traffic lanes.
3. Right-Hook Accidents A driver overtakes a cyclist and then makes an abrupt right turn, cutting off the cyclist or striking them directly. These accidents frequently occur at intersections and driveways.
4. Rear-End Collisions A driver following a cyclist too closely fails to brake in time, striking the cyclist from behind. These collisions often occur when drivers are distracted or when cyclists are riding in low-visibility conditions.
5. Unsafe Passing California law (CVC section 21760) requires drivers to maintain a minimum of three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist. Drivers who fail to provide adequate space can force cyclists off the road or clip them with their vehicles.
6. Intersection Collisions A significant number of bicycle accidents occur at or near intersections, where drivers may run red lights, fail to observe cyclists in crosswalks, or make sudden turns without yielding.
7. Unexpected Reversals Drivers backing out of driveways or parking spaces without checking for cyclists can cause serious collisions, particularly in residential neighborhoods and commercial parking areas.
8. Merging and Lane-Change Accidents Drivers who fail to check their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes can strike cyclists traveling in adjacent lanes or bike lanes.
9. Unsafe Road Conditions Potholes, crumbling pavement, and missing bike lane markings can cause cyclists to lose control and crash. In these cases, the government entity responsible for maintaining the road may be liable.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Bike Crashes {#injuries}
Because cyclists have no protective shell around them, bicycle accidents frequently result in serious, life-altering injuries. Even at relatively low speeds, a collision with a motor vehicle can cause:
| Injury Type | Description |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) | Concussions, contusions, diffuse axonal injury; can cause permanent cognitive, emotional, and physical impairment |
| Spinal Cord Injury | Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or complete paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia) |
| Broken Bones and Fractures | Commonly the clavicle, wrist, arm, leg, and pelvis |
| Road Rash | Severe abrasions from sliding across pavement; can require skin grafts and lead to infection |
| Internal Organ Injuries | Damage to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs; may not be immediately apparent |
| Nerve Damage | Numbness, tingling, loss of function in extremities; can be permanent |
| Facial and Dental Injuries | Lacerations, fractures, and tooth loss from impact with the road or vehicle |
| Dislocated Joints | Particularly the shoulder, hip, and knee |
| PTSD and Psychological Injuries | Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder following a traumatic crash |
| Wrongful Death | Fatal injuries resulting in a claim by surviving family members |
Any of these injuries can require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Our attorneys work with medical experts to fully document the scope of your injuries and ensure that your claim accounts for both current and future medical needs.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in California {#what-to-do}
The actions you take in the minutes, hours, and days following a bicycle accident can significantly affect your health and your ability to recover full compensation. Follow these steps whenever possible:
Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention Move to a safe location if you are able. Call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, accept medical evaluation at the scene and follow up with a physician as soon as possible. Many serious injuries — including internal bleeding and traumatic brain injuries — may not produce obvious symptoms right away.
Step 2: Call the Police Request that law enforcement respond to the scene. A police report creates an official record of the accident and is a critical piece of evidence in your claim. Cooperate fully with officers and request a copy of the report.
Step 3: Document the Scene If you are physically able, use your smartphone to photograph and video the accident scene, including the positions of all vehicles, your bicycle, road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Photograph the driver’s license, insurance card, and license plate of the at-fault driver.
Step 4: Gather Witness Information Collect the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of any witnesses. Witness testimony can be invaluable in establishing how the accident occurred.
Step 5: Preserve Evidence Do not repair or discard your bicycle, helmet, or clothing. These items are physical evidence that can demonstrate the severity of the impact and the nature of your injuries.
Step 6: Avoid Giving Statements to Insurance Companies Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance adjuster — including your own — before consulting with an attorney. Insurance companies are trained to use your words against you to minimize or deny your claim.
Step 7: Do Not Sign Any Releases or Settlement Agreements Insurance companies sometimes move quickly to offer low settlements before you have had a chance to understand the full extent of your injuries. Never sign a release of claims without first speaking to a bicycle accident lawyer.
Step 8: Contact a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Attorney The sooner you retain legal counsel, the sooner your attorney can begin preserving evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building your case. Call our office for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Who Is Liable for a Bicycle Accident? {#liability}
Identifying all potentially liable parties is one of the most important steps in maximizing your recovery. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, responsible parties may include:
- The driver of the motor vehicle who caused the collision
- The driver’s employer, if the driver was operating a vehicle in the course of their employment (vicarious liability)
- A government entity, if the accident was caused by a dangerous road condition such as a pothole, missing signage, or a defective traffic signal
- A property owner, if the accident occurred on private property due to a hazardous condition
- A bicycle or component manufacturer, if a defect in your bicycle or safety equipment contributed to the accident
- A construction company or contractor, if roadwork created a hazardous condition
- Other cyclists or pedestrians, if their negligent actions contributed to the crash
Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to identify every party whose negligence contributed to your injuries. You only have one opportunity to pursue compensation, and it is essential that no responsible party is overlooked.
Proving Fault in a Bicycle Accident Case {#proving-fault}
Proving liability in a bicycle accident case requires gathering and presenting compelling evidence. Our legal team employs a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Reviewing the police report and, where appropriate, challenging inaccurate findings
- Obtaining and analyzing surveillance footage from traffic cameras, nearby businesses, and dashcams
- Interviewing eyewitnesses and obtaining sworn statements
- Consulting accident reconstruction experts to recreate the sequence of events
- Reviewing the at-fault driver’s phone records to establish distracted driving
- Obtaining the driver’s toxicology results if impaired driving is suspected
- Inspecting the accident scene for road defects, missing signage, or other hazardous conditions
- Preserving your bicycle and safety equipment for forensic analysis
Even if the initial police report places fault on you, our attorneys have the skill and experience to challenge that finding and present the true picture of what happened.
Comparative Fault in California Bicycle Accidents {#comparative-fault}
California follows the doctrine of pure comparative negligence, which means that even if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation. Your total award will simply be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
For example, if a jury finds that you were 20 percent at fault for the accident and awards you $100,000 in damages, you would receive $80,000. This rule applies even if you are found to be more than 50 percent at fault — you can still recover the portion of damages attributable to the other party’s negligence.
Common arguments used to assign comparative fault to cyclists include claims that the cyclist was not wearing a helmet, was riding in the wrong direction, was not using lights at night, or was otherwise violating traffic laws. Our attorneys are experienced in countering these arguments and minimizing any reduction in your recovery.
Damages You Can Recover {#damages}
In a California bicycle accident claim, you may be entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages (quantifiable financial losses):
| Category | Examples |
| Medical Expenses | Emergency room, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, medication, future medical care |
| Lost Wages | Income lost during recovery |
| Lost Earning Capacity | Reduced ability to earn income due to permanent disability |
| Property Damage | Repair or replacement of your bicycle and other damaged property |
| Out-of-Pocket Expenses | Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, medical equipment |
Non-Economic Damages (subjective, non-monetary losses):
| Category | Examples |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain and discomfort, both past and future |
| Emotional Distress | Anxiety, depression, PTSD |
| Loss of Enjoyment of Life | Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed |
| Loss of Consortium | Impact on your relationship with your spouse or partner |
| Disfigurement | Permanent scarring or physical changes to your appearance |
In cases involving particularly egregious conduct — such as a driver who was drunk or texting — punitive damages may also be available.
Our attorneys work with medical experts, economists, and life care planners to build a comprehensive damages model that accounts for every aspect of your losses, including those you may not yet have experienced.
Electric Bicycle (E-Bike) Accidents {#e-bikes}
The popularity of electric bicycles has surged in recent years, and California has enacted specific laws to govern their use. Under California law, e-bikes are classified into three categories:
| Class | Description | Speed Limit | Helmet Requirement |
| Class 1 | Motor assists only when pedaling | 20 mph | Required for riders under 18 |
| Class 2 | Throttle-assisted (no pedaling required) | 20 mph | Required for riders under 18 |
| Class 3 | Motor assists only when pedaling | 28 mph | Required for all riders |
E-bikes are not considered motor vehicles, so riders do not need a driver’s license or insurance. However, local municipalities may impose additional restrictions. For example, certain beach paths in Los Angeles prohibit e-bikes entirely.
E-bike riders face unique risks due to their higher speeds and the fact that many motorists are not yet accustomed to sharing the road with them. If you were injured in an e-bike accident, you have the same right to pursue compensation as any other bicycle accident victim. Additionally, if a defect in the e-bike’s motor, battery, or other components contributed to the accident, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
Government Liability for Dangerous Road Conditions {#government-liability}
Not all bicycle accidents are caused by other drivers. Poorly maintained roads, missing bike lane markings, defective traffic signals, and other hazardous conditions created or maintained by government entities can also cause serious crashes. If a dangerous road condition contributed to your accident, you may have a claim against the city, county, or state agency responsible for that roadway.
Critical Warning: Claims against government entities in California are subject to a strict six-month deadline from the date of the accident for filing a Government Tort Claim. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your right to recover compensation. If you believe a road defect contributed to your accident, contact our office immediately.
Why Hire an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney? {#why-hire}
Handling a bicycle accident claim on your own is rarely in your best interest. Insurance companies employ teams of adjusters and defense attorneys whose sole job is to minimize the amount they pay out on claims. Without experienced legal representation, you are at a significant disadvantage.
Here is what our bicycle accident attorneys bring to your case:
- 25+ years of experience representing cyclists in Los Angeles and throughout California
- Thorough investigation of every aspect of your accident, including evidence that may not be immediately obvious
- Access to expert witnesses, including accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and economic analysts
- Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- Trial-tested litigation skills — we are not afraid to take your case to a jury if that is what it takes to get you justice
- No upfront costs — we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win
Our firm has a proven track record of success in bicycle accident cases, including a verdict of nearly $300,000 for a cyclist who was struck by a vehicle in Griffith Park. We have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for the outcome you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) {#faqs}
General Questions About Bicycle Accident Claims
Q: What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in California?
A: In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in California. However, if your claim involves a government entity — such as a city or county responsible for a dangerous road condition — you must file a Government Tort Claim within six months of the accident. Missing either of these deadlines can permanently bar your right to compensation. It is always best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident.
Q: Can I File a Claim if I Was Not Wearing a Helmet at the Time of the Accident?
A: Yes. California law does not require adult cyclists to wear helmets (though it is strongly recommended). The absence of a helmet does not prevent you from filing a claim, though the defense may argue that your injuries were worsened by the lack of a helmet. Our attorneys are experienced in countering these arguments and minimizing any impact on your recovery.
Q: What if the Driver Who Hit Me Fled the Scene (Hit-And-Run)?
A: Hit-and-run bicycle accidents are unfortunately common in Los Angeles. If the driver cannot be identified, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, if you have it. You should also report the accident to the police immediately and try to gather any information about the fleeing vehicle. Our attorneys can help you explore all available avenues for compensation.
Q: What if I Was Riding My Bicycle on the Sidewalk When the Accident Occurred?
A: California law generally permits cyclists to ride on sidewalks unless a local ordinance prohibits it. However, riding on the sidewalk may affect how fault is allocated in your case. Our attorneys can evaluate the specific circumstances of your accident and advise you on how this may affect your claim.
Q: Can I File a Bicycle Accident Claim if I Was Injured While Riding in a Bike Lane?
A: Absolutely. Drivers are required by law to respect designated bike lanes. If a driver entered a bike lane and struck you, they are likely liable for your injuries. Bike lane accidents are among the most clear-cut cases of driver negligence.
Questions About Fault and Liability
Q: What if the Police Report Says I Was at Fault for the Accident?
A: A police report is not the final word on fault. Police officers often write reports based on limited information gathered at the scene, and those reports can contain errors or reflect only one side of the story. Our attorneys have successfully challenged police report findings in numerous cases by gathering additional evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts.
Q: Can I Still Recover Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?
A: Yes. California’s pure comparative negligence rule allows you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Your total recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still receive compensation for the portion of your damages attributable to the other party’s negligence. For example, if you are found 25% at fault and your total damages are $200,000, you would recover $150,000.
Q: What if Multiple Parties Were Responsible for My Bicycle Accident?
A: In California, multiple parties can be held jointly and severally liable for your injuries. Our attorneys will investigate your case thoroughly to identify every party whose negligence contributed to your accident — including the driver, their employer, a government entity, or a product manufacturer — and pursue compensation from all of them.
Q: Can I Sue a City or County for a Pothole That Caused My Bicycle Accident?
A: Yes, but claims against government entities are subject to special rules and strict deadlines. You must file a Government Tort Claim within six months of the accident. If the claim is denied, you then have six months to file a lawsuit. Our attorneys are experienced in handling government liability claims and can guide you through this process.
Q: What if a pedestrian caused my bicycle accident?
A: If a pedestrian’s negligent actions — such as stepping into a bike lane without looking — caused your accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against them. Our attorneys can evaluate the circumstances and advise you on your options.
Questions About Injuries and Medical Treatment
Q: What if I Don’t Have Health Insurance to Cover My Medical Bills After a Bicycle Accident?
A: Lack of health insurance should not prevent you from getting the medical care you need. Our firm can help connect you with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they will defer payment until your case is resolved and paid from the proceeds of your settlement or verdict. We can also help you explore eligibility for programs such as Medi-Cal or Medicare.
Q: What if My Injuries Are Not Immediately Apparent After the Accident?
A: This is very common. Injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, herniated discs, and soft tissue damage often do not produce obvious symptoms until hours or even days after an accident. This is why it is critical to seek medical evaluation immediately after any bicycle accident, even if you feel fine. Delaying medical treatment can also be used by insurance companies to argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident.
Q: Can I Recover Compensation for Psychological Injuries, Such as Ptsd, Following a Bicycle Accident?
A: Yes. Psychological injuries, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, are recognized forms of non-economic damages in California personal injury cases. Our attorneys work with mental health professionals to document and quantify these injuries as part of your claim.
Q: What if My Injuries Require Long-Term or Permanent Medical Care?
A: Future medical expenses are fully recoverable in a California personal injury claim. Our attorneys work with life care planners and medical experts to project the cost of your future medical needs — including surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and in-home care — and ensure that these costs are included in your damages calculation.
Questions About the Legal Process
Q: How Long Will My Bicycle Accident Case Take to Resolve?
A: The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Many cases are resolved through settlement within 6 to 18 months. If a lawsuit must be filed, the process typically takes 12 to 24 months from filing to trial. Our attorneys will keep you informed at every stage and work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible without sacrificing the quality of your outcome.
Q: What Is the Difference Between a Settlement and a Trial Verdict?
A: A settlement is a negotiated agreement between you and the at-fault party (or their insurance company) in which you agree to accept a specific amount of compensation in exchange for releasing your claims. A trial verdict is a decision made by a judge or jury after both sides present their evidence and arguments. Most personal injury cases settle before trial, but our attorneys are fully prepared to take your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Q: How Much Is My Bicycle Accident Case Worth?
A: The value of your case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your medical expenses, the impact on your ability to work, the degree of the other party’s negligence, and the available insurance coverage. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough evaluation of your damages and advise you on the realistic value of your claim. We never accept a settlement that does not fully reflect the true value of your losses.
Q: What Does It Mean to Work On a Contingency Fee Basis?
A: Working on a contingency fee basis means that our attorneys do not charge any upfront fees. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of your total recovery, which will be clearly explained to you before you sign any agreement. This arrangement ensures that everyone — regardless of financial means — has access to high-quality legal representation.
Q: Do I Need to Go to Court for My Bicycle Accident Case?
A: Most bicycle accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations and never go to trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, our attorneys are fully prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to court. Having a lawyer with genuine trial experience is a powerful negotiating tool, as insurance companies know that we are willing and able to litigate.
Q: What if the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company Contacts Me Directly?
A: Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting with an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions designed to elicit statements that can be used to minimize or deny your claim. Politely inform them that you are represented by counsel and direct them to contact our office.
Q: Can I Handle My Bicycle Accident Claim Myself Without a Lawyer?
A: While you are legally permitted to represent yourself, doing so is rarely advisable in a bicycle accident case. Insurance companies are sophisticated adversaries with experienced legal teams. Studies consistently show that accident victims who are represented by attorneys recover significantly more compensation than those who handle their own claims. Our attorneys offer free consultations, so there is no cost to learning how we can help.
Questions About Specific Types of Bicycle Accidents
Q: What Are My Rights if I Was Injured in an E-Bike Accident?
A: E-bike riders have the same legal rights as conventional bicycle riders. If you were injured due to another party’s negligence, you can pursue a personal injury claim for the full range of economic and non-economic damages. If a defect in the e-bike itself contributed to the accident, you may also have a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
Q: What if a Child Was Injured in a Bicycle Accident?
A: When a minor is injured in a bicycle accident, a parent or legal guardian typically files the claim on the child’s behalf. The statute of limitations for minors is generally tolled (paused) until the child reaches the age of 18, giving them until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit. However, if the claim involves a government entity, the six-month deadline for filing a Government Tort Claim still applies. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling bicycle accident claims on behalf of injured children and their families.
Q: What if I Was Injured in a Bicycle Accident While Commuting to or From Work?
A: If you were injured while commuting to or from work, your claim is generally handled as a standard personal injury case against the at-fault driver. However, if you were injured while performing work duties — for example, making a delivery by bicycle — you may also have a workers’ compensation claim. Our attorneys can evaluate your situation and advise you on all available avenues for compensation.
Q: What if My Bicycle Accident Was Caused by a Defective Bicycle Component?
A: If a manufacturing defect, design flaw, or failure to warn contributed to your accident, you may have a product liability claim against the bicycle manufacturer, component manufacturer, or retailer. These claims are separate from — and can be pursued in addition to — a personal injury claim against any negligent driver. Our attorneys are experienced in product liability litigation and can evaluate whether this type of claim applies to your case.
Q: What if I Was Injured in a Bicycle Accident in a Parking Lot?
A: Bicycle accidents in parking lots can involve claims against the driver who struck you, the property owner (if a hazardous condition on the property contributed to the accident), or both. Our attorneys will investigate all potential sources of liability to maximize your recovery.
Additional Resources {#resources}
Our firm is a proud supporter of organizations that advocate for the rights and safety of cyclists throughout California. The following resources may be helpful to bicycle accident victims and their families:
- California Bicycle Coalition — Advocates for bicyclist rights and safe cycling infrastructure throughout California
- Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition — Promotes safe cycling and bicycle-friendly policies in the Los Angeles region
- LADOT Bike Program — Information on bike lanes, bike share, and cycling resources in Los Angeles
- SafeTREC Berkeley — Bicycle Safety Facts — Current data on bicycle accident statistics in California
- NHTSA Bicycle Safety — Federal resources on bicycle safety and crash data
Contact a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles or anywhere in California, do not wait to get the legal help you need. The sooner you contact our office, the sooner we can begin preserving evidence and building your case.
Steven M. Sweat, Personal Injury Lawyers, APC offers a free, no-obligation consultation to all bicycle accident victims. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can travel to your home or hospital if you are unable to come to us.
Call us today at 866-966-5240 (Toll Free) | 310-592-0445 (Los Angeles) | 626-296-3555 (West Covina) Se Habla Español
References
[1] SafeTREC, University of California, Berkeley. (2025). 2025 SafeTREC Traffic Safety Facts: Bicycle Safety. Retrieved from https://safetrec.berkeley.edu/2025-safetrec-traffic-safety-facts-bicycle-safety
[2] Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). (2024). Fatality Facts 2023: Bicyclists. Retrieved from https://www.iihs.org/research-areas/fatality-statistics/detail/bicyclists
[3] California Vehicle Code section 21200 — Rights and duties of bicycle riders
[4] California Vehicle Code section 21801(a) — Left turns; yielding right-of-way
[5] California Vehicle Code section 22517 — Opening and closing vehicle doors
[6] California Vehicle Code section 21760 — Three-foot passing requirement
The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Results described are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of any future case.
