Bicycling, while a great way to exercise, commute, or enjoy the beautiful California weather, is still a very dangerous activity in Long Beach. While drivers are supposed to be sharing the roads with bicyclists, as they are considered vehicle drivers who must follow the same laws as other drivers who are behind the wheel, they are often overlooked or completely ignored as co-travelers, which is when injuries and deaths occur.
How Many Bicycle Accidents Occur in California Each Year?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides nationwide statistics for bicycle injuries and deaths and last year there were:
- Over 45,000 bicycle accidents with injuries in the United States
- 840 bicycle accident deaths; accounting for 2.2% of all traffic fatalities throughout the country
The State of California led the country in bicycle deaths last year, and the California Office of Traffic Safety listed:
- 147 fatalities throughout the state; 20 of which occurred in Los Angeles alone
How Can I Stay Safe Riding a Bicycle in Long Beach, California?
Staying safe on your bicycle requires precautions by both the riders and motorists in order to lessen the state’s lead in the number of bicyclists who are killed each year.
These safety measures must include:
- Wearing bicycle helmets: All riders under the age of 18 are required by California law to wear a properly fitting helmet, but adults can benefit from their use too as helmets are instrumental in preventing head injuries during and after a crash
- Obeying the rules of the road: Bicyclists are required to follow the same rules of the road as other drivers; lawful riding is paramount to a rider’s safety including their:
- Following traffic signs and signals
- Riding with the traffic flow
- Maintaining position within the lane markings
- Increasing visibility: Riders should wear bright-colored clothing to be easily identified while bicycling; and equip their bicycle with lights while riding at dusk, dawn, and night time
- Sharing the roads with bicyclists: Drivers should provide at least three feet of space between their vehicle and a rider who is sharing the road and keep a lookout for bicyclists at all times, and especially before turning or when opening car doors
What Should I Do If I Have Been Injured in a Bicycle Accident in Long Beach?
Bicycle accidents in Long Beach, California are scary, and the results can be life-changing. If you have been injured in an accident, our personal injury accident attorney in Long Beach, Los Angeles County will provide you with the legal guidance you need to hold the person who caused your injury financially responsible.
Your lost wages, medical expenses, and miscellaneous costs should not be paid out of your pocket. Contact our Long Beach bicycle accident lawyer today at Eldessouky Law by calling (714) 831-5432 to schedule a free case evaluation today.
