Why Do Bike Accidents Occur in Pasadena, CA?
Bicycle accidents happen all too frequently in Pasadena. The city has over 12 miles of designated bike lanes and parking for over 1,000 bicycles, but the busy streets and high traffic volumes in Pasadena make it crucial for drivers and cyclists to be vigilant. Bicycle accident victims often deal with severe injuries, costly medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you sustained injuries in a bike accident in Pasadena, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced bicycle accident attorney who will meticulously investigate your case, identify the liable parties, and recover financial compensation for your injuries and losses. Read on to learn the common causes of bicycle accidents in Pasadena and how a bike accident lawyer can help your claim.
Driver Errors Leading to Bike Accidents
Bike accidents can occur for many different reasons, but the most common cause is driver error. When drivers fail to pay attention or respect cyclists’ rights on the road, cyclists are put at great risk.
Speeding
Speeding is one of the most common causes of bicycle accidents. In Pasadena, there were 111 speed-related injuries and fatalities. When drivers exceed speed limits, they need more time and space to slow down and react to hazards. Therefore, a speeding driver may not have enough time to react to avoid a collision. High-speed impacts are especially dangerous for cyclists, who are more vulnerable to severe injuries.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is another major cause of bicycle accidents. In 2021, 140 people lost their lives in crashes involving a distracted driver, a 27.3% increase from 2020. Non-driving activities such as texting, eating, or using in-car technologies divert a driver’s attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Cyclists are particularly at risk because they are less visible and more susceptible to sudden changes in traffic patterns. In Pasadena, where traffic can be dense, even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to devastating consequences.
Distracted driving in areas like driveways and parking lots also leads to bicycle accidents. Drivers exiting driveways or navigating parking lots may not always check for cyclists, resulting in collisions.
Disregard for Traffic Laws
Drivers who ignore stop signs and red lights or fail to yield the right-of-way put cyclists and other road users at great risk. Unfortunately, traffic violations are common in busy urban areas like Pasadena, where the hustle and bustle often lead to rushed driving behaviors. Some of the most frequently ignored traffic laws include:
- Driving at the speed limit
- Wearing a seatbelt
- Stopping at stop signs and red lights
- Distracted driving laws
Impaired Driving
Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, greatly increases the risk of bicycle accidents. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, making it difficult for them to navigate safely around cyclists and other road users.
According to the LA County Department of Public Health, there were 126,012 motor vehicle crashes that involved drunk drivers. These accidents resulted in 72,980 injuries and 2,300 traffic deaths. In 2021, there were 177 DUI arrests in Pasadena. That year, 69 people were injured and killed in drunk-driving crashes across Pasadena.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving behaviors are performed deliberately and with ill intentions or disregard for the safety of other road users.
Examples of aggressive driving can include:
- Following too closely
- Speeding
- Cutting off other road users
- Running red lights
- Frequent lane changes
- Changing lanes without signaling
- Road rage
In Pasadena, aggressive driving contributes to numerous bicycle accidents each year. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, there were nearly 870 reported incidents of road rage in 2022. Cyclists facing aggressive drivers are at heightened risk of sustaining catastrophic injuries in a collision.
Fatigued Driving
Fatigued driving is a less recognized but equally dangerous cause of bicycling accidents. Drivers who are overly tired can experience reduced concentration and slower reaction times, similar to those of impaired drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2017, there were 795 people who lost their lives in drowsy-driving crashes.
Open-Door Accidents
Open-door accidents occur when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. This type of accident, often referred to as “dooring,” can cause cyclists to crash into the door or swerve into traffic to avoid it, both of which can result in serious injuries. Under California Vehicle Code section 22517, it is illegal for someone to open a car door on the side available to moving traffic, except when it is reasonably safe to do so. Therefore, motor vehicle owners can be held liable if they open the door without taking proper safety precautions.
In Pasadena, where parallel parking is common on many streets, open-door accidents pose a significant risk. Cyclists should ensure they ride a safe distance from parked cars and remain vigilant for signs of doors opening.
Failure to Respect Cyclists’ Right-of-Way
When motor vehicles fail to yield, cyclists face the risk of severe injury or even death due to collisions. Drivers who cut off cyclists, fail to yield, or do not provide adequate space are directly putting cyclists at risk. This issue is prevalent in busy cities like Pasadena, where road sharing is essential.
Non-Vehicle-Related Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Victims of non-vehicle-related accidents can still seek compensation if negligence can be proven, whether it involves a municipality due to poor road conditions or a manufacturer for defective equipment.
Poor Infrastructure for Cyclists
Poor infrastructure is a critical factor in many bicycle accidents. Inadequate bike lanes, poorly designed intersections, and lack of signage can create hazardous conditions for cyclists. Pasadena is making efforts to improve the city’s infrastructure, however, there are still areas where infrastructure is not cyclist-friendly. In certain cases, the city or responsible entities may be held liable.
Poor Road Conditions
Poor road conditions, including potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces, pose significant risks to cyclists and can cause serious accidents. Pasadena’s streets, like those of many cities, can suffer from maintenance issues that create hazards for bicycles.
If you were injured in an accident involving a road hazard, you may be able to pursue legal action against the municipalities responsible for road maintenance.
Defective Bicycle Equipment
Defective bicycle equipment is another critical cause of accidents. Faulty brakes, tires, or frames can lead to serious accidents. Before each ride, cyclists should ensure their bicycles are in good working condition.
In cases involving defective bicycle equipment, victims can seek compensation from manufacturers or retailers for injuries caused by defective products.
Cyclist Error
Cyclist error, including lack of experience and failure to obey traffic laws, can also lead to accidents. Mistakes such as sudden lane changes or riding against traffic can result in serious accidents. However, even when cyclists are partially at fault, they may still be able to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses. An experienced personal injury attorney can help an injured cyclist prove liability and recover damages.
Common Bicycle Injuries
- Fractures
- Dental injuries
- Head injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Cuts and bruises
Do I Have a Bicycle Accident Case?
Determining if you have a bicycle accident case involves evaluating the circumstances of the accident and the extent of your injuries. Key factors include evidence of negligence by another party, the severity of your injuries, and the impact on your life.
Consulting with a bicycle accident lawyer can help clarify your legal options. Experienced attorneys can assess your case, gather necessary evidence, and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive fair compensation.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover in a Bicycle Accident Claim?
In a bicycle accident claim, victims can recover various types of compensation. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In Pasadena, the amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injuries and the degree of negligence involved. An experienced attorney can help calculate the full extent of your damages and fight for the maximum compensation possible.
Do I Need to Hire a Bicycle Accident Attorney?
Hiring a bicycle accident attorney is highly advisable, especially in complex cases. An attorney can provide expert legal guidance, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. In Pasadena, having an attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. They can ensure that your rights are protected, gather crucial evidence, and build a strong case to maximize your compensation.
We Represent Bicycle Accident Victims
At Alpha Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to representing bicycle accident victims in Pasadena. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are committed to helping you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. From initial consultation to case resolution, we offer compassionate and effective legal representation.
Our personal injury attorneys maintain a 99% success rate and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation.