Max Draitser – Southern California Bicycle Attorneys Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Attorney | Bike Accident Lawyer 2026-07-14T13:29:03Z https://www.bikelawla.com/feed/atom/ WordPress On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[3 common reasons drivers cause bicycle crashes]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51297 2026-07-09T13:29:45Z 2026-07-14T13:29:03Z 1. Failing to watch for bikes Drivers often claim they didn't see a bicycle. The chances are good that the bicycle was visible, but the driver simply didn't register their presence mentally. Intentional blindness occurs when drivers fail to check their surroundings for smaller vehicles, including bicycles.

2. Resentment about sharing the road

Drivers often feel annoyed about the presence of cyclists or even pedestrians and motorcycles on the road. They may intentionally engage in behavior that is annoying or unsafe, such as brake-checking in front of a cyclist or tailgating a bicycle when there is no bicycle lane for the cyclist to occupy. Those behaviors can lead to a driver causing a preventable crash due to their unnecessary proximity to the bicycle.

3. Lack of familiarity with the rules

Cyclists often rely on hand gestures to communicate their intent to stop or turn. Drivers who are not familiar with those gestures may fail to understand what a cyclist intends to do next. They can then cause preventable crashes due to their lack of understanding. When a motorist is at fault for a car-bicycle collision, they are typically liable for the damages their choices generate. Filing an insurance claim and possibly even a lawsuit may be necessary for injured cyclists hoping to recoup the cost of a bicycle collision.]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[Should you wear a GoPro while cycling?]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51295 2026-06-25T12:31:30Z 2026-06-30T12:30:48Z Many cyclists wear GoPros or other cameras that they can mount either on a bicycle helmet or on the bike itself. They may do this to analyze and track their own performance or to make content for social media. The camera can easily record the entire ride, which can then be edited after the fact. But one other benefit of wearing a camera while you ride is that the footage can help if you are involved in an accident. In the same way that a dash cam can help a driver demonstrate that someone else was at fault, a cyclist could benefit from having footage of their own crash. After all, the driver may tell a very different story. Perhaps the cyclist had a green light, and the driver ran the red light, but that driver claims that they were the one with the green light and the cyclist failed to yield the right of way. It can be complicated to sort through this when two people are telling different stories, but GoPro footage could immediately put an end to any dispute.

Should a camera be part of your safety equipment?

There are many other types of safety equipment that can help prevent an accident, such as lights, reflectors and bright clothing. Cyclists may also want to consider wearing a bike helmet and other types of protective equipment that can reduce their injuries if they are involved in a crash. Wearing a camera will not help a rider avoid an accident and will not keep them safe if they are struck by a vehicle. But it can still be an important part of their equipment because it helps them focus on the future. They may deserve substantial compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages after the accident, and the camera footage can serve as evidence in their case as they seek that compensation.  ]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[What you need to know about daylighting law]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51293 2026-06-11T10:11:13Z 2026-06-16T10:10:37Z California’s daylighting law, known as AB 413, is changing how drivers park near intersections and crosswalks. The law is meant to make streets safer by keeping corners clear, so people walking, biking or driving can see each other before entering the same space.  If you ride a bike in Southern California, this law matters more than it may seem. A parked car near a corner can hide you from a turning driver. It can also block your view of traffic, forcing you to move forward without knowing what is coming. 

Clear corners can save lives

AB 413 generally prohibits parking within 20 feet of a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Where there is a curb extension, that distance is usually 15 feet. The goal is to open up sightlines before someone reaches the intersection. For cyclists, better visibility can reduce common crash risks, such as: 
  • Drivers turning right without seeing a bike in the bike lane
  • Cars pulling out from side streets with limited visibility
  • Riders entering intersections without a clear view of traffic
  • Pedestrians stepping out from behind parked vehicles
This law does not remove every danger from the road. Drivers still need to check mirrors, yield when required and watch for cyclists. Cyclists also need to stay alert, follow traffic rules and use lights or reflective gear when visibility is poor.  However, daylighting can have a huge impact, as many serious bike crashes occur at intersections. By keeping parked cars away from corners, AB 413 gives everyone more time to notice danger and react.  If you are hurt in a bicycle crash near an intersection, the parking layout, visibility, traffic signs and driver behavior may all matter. Knowing how AB 413 applies can be part of that review, which is why informed legal support may help you better understand your options.]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[Safety when transitioning from a Peloton to a road bike]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51291 2026-05-28T13:55:21Z 2026-06-02T13:54:36Z Many people who build cycling endurance indoors eventually decide to transition from a stationary bike, such as a Peloton, to outdoor road cycling. While indoor cycling can improve cardiovascular fitness and leg strength, riding on public roads introduces entirely different safety challenges.  Cyclists should understand that physical conditioning alone does not fully prepare them for real-world traffic conditions, roadway hazards, and accident risks, and they should address the safety risks associated with this transition with the seriousness they deserve. 

Stationary vs. road safety concerns

One major difference involves balance and bike handling. Indoor bikes remain stationary, while outdoor road bikes require riders to navigate turns, sudden stops, uneven pavement and changing weather conditions. New outdoor cyclists may initially struggle with clipping into pedals, shifting gears or maneuvering safely in traffic. Indoor cycling eliminates concerns about distracted drivers, parked cars, pedestrians and road debris. Outdoor cyclists must constantly monitor surrounding traffic, intersections and blind spots. Drivers do not always notice cyclists, especially in congested areas or poor lighting conditions. Additionally, some people become comfortable riding indoors without protective gear and underestimate how vulnerable cyclists are on public roads. A properly fitted helmet may significantly reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries during crashes. Visibility is also extremely important. Cyclists should wear reflective or brightly colored clothing and use front and rear bike lights, particularly during early morning or evening rides. Even experienced drivers may have difficulty spotting cyclists in low-light conditions. Finally, many new road cyclists also underestimate roadway hazards. Potholes, loose gravel, wet pavement, railroad tracks and uneven shoulders can cause sudden falls or loss of control. Riders transitioning from indoor cycling may not yet have developed the reflexes needed to react safely to these obstacles. Unfortunately, even careful cyclists remain vulnerable to negligent drivers. As such, cyclists transitioning from indoor riding should ease into outdoor cycling gradually, practice in lower-traffic areas and prioritize safety equipment and road awareness. While road cycling can be rewarding and enjoyable, understanding the risks involved may help reduce the chances of serious accidents and injuries. ]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[Cyclists can dispute fault after a bicycle crash in California]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51288 2026-05-18T10:14:52Z 2026-05-21T10:13:53Z California's roads can be unforgiving, and cyclists are among the most vulnerable people on them. Whether you were hit at an intersection, clipped by a car door or brought down by a road defect, the pressure to accept blame for the accident or split it unfairly is real. However, accepting a false narrative can cost you a lot when it comes time to seek damages for your injuries. While you can still recover compensation if you contribute to an accident, an unfair fault assessment directly reduces the value of your claim under California’s comparative negligence system. If an insurer assigns you 30% of the blame, your total recovery is automatically reduced by that same percentage, even if the evidence doesn’t support it.  In practical terms, that can mean thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars lost simply because the fault was not properly challenged. It underscores the importance of understanding your rights when carrying an unfair burden of responsibility.

Why early assessments of fault are often wrong

Police reports and insurance summaries are not final determinations of liability. They are often created quickly, sometimes relying on incomplete statements or scene impressions. Cyclists are frequently mischaracterized as being out of position or failing to react, when later review shows driver negligence such as unsafe turning, distraction or failure to yield.

Evidence is what shifts the narrative

Disputing fault isn’t just about arguing. You must support your arguments with evidence that contradicts the initial findings. Surveillance footage, witness statements, skid marks, traffic signal timing data, and accident reconstruction reports can all flip the script on who was truly responsible. Legal guidance can be essential in preserving the right evidence, challenging unsupported conclusions and protecting your interests through the claims process.]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[The long-term costs of an SCI after a bicycle accident]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51286 2026-05-01T19:40:19Z 2026-05-06T19:39:26Z High tetraplegia For example, if you’ve suffered an injury between the C1 and the C4 vertebrae, it is relatively high on the spinal column, and it is referred to as high tetraplegia. According to some estimates, this injury could cost over $1 million just in the first year. But your right to compensation does not stop there. For every subsequent year that you are living with that injury, you will incur an estimated $184,000 in further costs. This could include medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost wages, in-home care and more. When factoring in the long-term costs, you also want to consider your age. If you are 50 years old when you get injured, for example, the estimated lifetime costs are just under $2.6 million. If you are just 25 years old at the time of injury, however, those estimated lifetime costs increase to over $4.7 million. While these specific financial damages will be different in every unique case, this helps to demonstrate why you’ll need to think of the big picture and the long-term costs as you look into your legal options to seek appropriate financial compensation.]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[Steps to take after a bicycle collision]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51285 2026-04-16T14:16:42Z 2026-04-21T14:15:42Z Bicycle accidents can happen suddenly and leave you feeling confused and overwhelmed. Knowing what to do next can make a significant difference in your recovery and future claims. Here are the first few steps to understand.

Stay at the scene

Remain at the accident location until the situation is properly handled. Leaving too early may complicate matters and make it harder to establish what happened. Staying present also allows you to gather important details and communicate with others involved.

Check your safety and injuries

Take a moment to assess any injuries, even if they seem minor at first. Adrenaline can mask pain, so it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Prompt medical care not only supports recovery but also creates a record of your injuries, which may be important later.

Report the accident

Contact the appropriate authorities, especially if there are injuries or property damage. An official report provides a clear record of the incident and helps establish facts. 

Exchange information with others involved

Collect details from those involved in the crash, including names, contact details, and insurance information.

Document the scene carefully

Use your phone to take photos of your bicycle, injuries, road conditions and the vehicles involved. You can also write down what you remember about how the accident happened while it is still fresh in your mind.

Notify your insurance provider

Inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. You may also want to seek reliable legal guidance to handle the matter and help you seek the compensation you deserve.]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[Why don’t bicycle manufacturers include lights?]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51284 2026-04-02T12:49:15Z 2026-04-07T12:48:29Z Motor vehicles are subject to strict federal regulations that mandate essential safety requirements. Vehicles must have safety restraints and airbags. Manufacturers must conduct collision safety testing to assess the design of the vehicle in the event of a crash. Bicycles are also vehicles, but manufacturers typically do not include built-in systems that are likely necessary for rider safety. Lights, including headlights, brake lights and turn signals, are not standard systems on bicycles. Instead, they typically require aftermarket installation as separate accessories. Why do bicycle standards not include these safety-critical systems?

Not everyone bikes at night

In California, the law requires that cyclists have lights in place for nighttime operation. However, the vast majority of cyclists are only out on the road during the daytime. Manufacturers can avoid the obligation to install light systems due to a lack of demand from consumers. There is also the cost of installing and testing such systems, as well as the risk of damage during shipping. Then there’s the impact they have on the aesthetics of bicycles, which can deter buyers. Without any laws requiring such systems, manufacturers are under no obligation to include them. Cyclists intending to ride on public roads during transitional times of day, after the sun sets or during overcast weather generally need to invest in aftermarket accessories to ensure compliance with the law and optimize their safety. Unfortunately, even with the best accessories, cyclists are still vulnerable to crashes caused by larger vehicles. Injured cyclists may need help holding dangerous drivers responsible for their conduct in traffic. Partnering with a personal injury attorney can help those injured in cycling collisions explore options for compensation and hold the party at fault accountable for their losses.]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[Did a bicycle crash cause a degloving injury?]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51283 2026-03-19T10:31:48Z 2026-03-24T10:31:27Z What is a degloving injury? A degloving injury is a traumatic injury caused by the separation of the skin from the tissue underneath. Frequently, degloving injuries occur because a cyclist gets thrown from their bicycle during a crash. At high speeds, the friction they experience can peel or tear their skin away from their bodies instead of simply causing road rash. Degloving injuries can cause major blood loss and serious infections if the injury is open. Even if the injury does not break the skin, it can cause nerve damage and internal bleeding. The skin separated from the tissue below may die and become necrotic. The injury can also cause severe scarring and permanent disfigurement. Degloving injuries frequently require intensive medical intervention and can cause permanent functional limitations in cases where the injury leads to nerve damage or damages nearby tissue, including muscles. People may have high medical costs and lost wages to consider. Cyclists with major injuries from bicycle-car collisions may need help as they pursue compensation. Insurance coverage may not be enough to address the cost of a degloving injury. Having experienced legal guidance can help injured cyclists optimize their compensation for serious bicycle crash injuries.]]> On Behalf of Max Draitser - Southern California Bicycle Attorneys <![CDATA[Signs of a traumatic brain injury after a bike accident]]> https://www.bikelawla.com/?p=51280 2026-03-05T11:44:16Z 2026-03-10T10:43:37Z Even safe and careful cyclists who have all of the proper equipment can still suffer serious injuries in an accident with a motor vehicle. Often, it is drivers who cause these accidents, but it is the cyclist who winds up in the hospital. One of the most serious injuries a person can suffer is a traumatic brain injury. It is important to know what types of signs and symptoms to look for, as they can indicate when it is necessary to seek medical attention.

Moderate or severe TBI symptoms

If you have a relatively serious traumatic brain injury, the following are some of the most common symptoms that people report:
  • Slurred speech and language issues 
  • Loss of vision, sometimes just in one eye 
  • Feelings of nausea or repeated vomiting 
  • Persistent headaches, which sometimes get worse over time 
  • Difficulty going to sleep or waking up 
  • A tingling feeling in the extremities 
  • Pupils of different sizes 
  • The onset of seizures or convulsions 
  • Loss of consciousness, even if just for a few minutes 
  • Problems with balance, coordination or clumsy movements 
  • Mental confusion, agitation and similar mental and emotional changes
Memory issues are often reported, as well. Some people who lose consciousness will have gaps in their memory or will be unable to remember the motor vehicle accident that caused their TBI in the first place.

Seeking medical attention

These are serious symptoms, and medical attention is necessary to get a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Injured parties need to know if they have a right to compensation, which can help to cover medical bills, lost wages and other damages.]]>