Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer
A bicycle crash can result in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain, especially when caused by a negligent driver. At Bike Legal, we represent injured cyclists throughout the Los Angeles metro area and hold negligent drivers, city agencies, and other parties accountable.
If you’re searching for an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney who specializes in bicycle accident claims, Bike Legal is here to answer all of your questions. No pressure, no commitment, no cost.
Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Statistics
Los Angeles remains the deadliest city in California for cyclists, consistently leading the state in bicycle-related fatalities. While San Francisco may report a higher total number of combined injuries and deaths, Los Angeles sees more cyclist deaths year after year.
According to the 2024 Vision Zero Safety Study by LADOT:
79.4% of fatal or serious cyclist injuries occur on just 6.6% of city streets, a concentrated area known as the Bicycle High Injury Network (HIN).
Despite commitments to Vision Zero and ongoing investments in bike infrastructure, Los Angeles County reported 26 cyclist fatalities in 2022, underscoring the continued risk for riders across the region.
These statistics reflect an urgent need for safer street design, reduced traffic speeds, and targeted safety improvements in high-risk areas throughout Los Angeles.
Injured in a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident?
Here’s How Bike Legal Can Help
Initial Inquiry
Questions about bicycle accidents? Call or submit a message on our contact form.
Same-Day Response
We promptly respond with a phone call to answer your questions and set up a free case evaluation.
Free Case Evaluation
Free phone consultation with our legal team to discuss your situation and determine if you have a bicycle accident case.
Contributing Factors to Los Angeles Bicycle Fatalities
The 2023 BikeLA Safety Report reviewed all 2022 bicycle fatalities and identified four primary risk factors that played a role in the majority of deaths:
- High-speed roads (posted speed limits over 35 mph) reduce driver response time and increase the severity of collisions.
- Multi-lane roads were involved in 77% of fatal crashes, creating dangerous conditions for cyclists attempting to merge or turn.
- Missing bike lanes contributed to 85% of fatalities, forcing cyclists into unpredictable or unsafe traffic patterns.
- Poor street lighting played a role in over half of all fatal crashes, with 54% of cyclist deaths occurring at night.
Dangerous Streets and Intersections in Los Angeles
Data from the 2024 LADOT Vision Zero Safety Study confirms that most bicycle-related deaths and severe injuries occur on a small fraction of city streets. The top high-injury intersections and corridors include:
Top Dangerous Intersections:
- 7th St & Olive St
- 7th St & Figueroa St
- Coliseum St & La Brea Ave
- Florence Ave & Vermont Ave
- 7th St & Central Ave
Top High-Injury Corridors:
- Washington Blvd (Ocean Front Walk to Walnut Ave)
- Manchester Ave (Broadway to Central Ave)
- Jefferson Blvd (Main St to Vermont Ave)
- Van Nuys Blvd (Arminta St to Bessemer St)
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Los Angeles
After a bicycle crash in Los Angeles, you may be in pain, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. Follow these steps after a bicycle crash to protect your health and legal rights:
Call 911
Report the crash and request medical treatment.
Collect evidence
Take photos, get witness names, and save GPS or camera data if you have it.
Seek medical care
Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated at facilities like Cedars-Sinai or UCLA Medical Center.
Do not speak to insurance companies
Their goal is to limit your payout or deny your bicycle accident claim altogether. Understanding what not to say to an insurance company after a bicycle crash can make or break your claim.
Preserve all evidence
Do not discard, repair, or wash any items that were damaged during the bicycle crash. Speak to a Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney to learn what evidence to save and why it matters.
Contact an experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer at Bike Legal
The sooner we’re involved, the stronger your case.
Who Is Liable for a Bicycle Crash in Los Angeles?
We investigate all angles to determine who was at fault and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries. Liability can fall on a variety of parties, including:
- A negligent driver
- A company vehicle operator (e.g., delivery van or rideshare)
- A government agency responsible for road maintenance
- A property owner or construction company that creates hazards for cyclists
Los Angeles Accident Compensation
- Medical bills
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Bicycle repair or replacement
- Physical therapy and mental health treatment
- Wrongful death damages (for families who lost a loved one)
Why Bike Legal is the Best Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Law firm
At Bike Legal, we don’t just handle bicycle accident claims; we specialize in them. Our attorneys are cyclists who understand the law and the challenges injured bike riders face. We’ve recovered millions for bicycle crash victims and are committed to improving cyclist safety in Los Angeles and across California.
We Specialize in Bicycle Crashes
Unlike general personal injury firms, our legal team includes cyclists who race, commute, and ride recreationally. That personal connection helps us advocate more effectively for injured cyclists.
We Treat Our Clients Like Teammates, Not Case Numbers
When you work with Bike Legal, you get a legal team that listens, responds quickly, and genuinely cares about your recovery.
Network of Medical Professionals
Superior Results
We’ve recovered millions for injured cyclists in Los Angeles and nationwide. From hit and run accidents in Los Angeles to dooring incidents in Downtown LA, we fight for you! Read our Google Reviews.
Los Angeles Bicycle Laws
Understanding bicycle laws is essential for protecting your rights and staying safe on the road, especially after a crash. For the most part, Los Angeles follows the California Vehicle Code when it comes to bicycle regulations. Riders in LA should be familiar with both state and local rules to avoid citations and strengthen potential legal claims.
Read our full guide to California Bicycle Laws for a more comprehensive breakdown.
California Vehicle Code for Bicyclists
Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers.
CVC §21202
Cyclists must ride as close as practicable to the right-hand side of the roadway—except when turning left, passing, or avoiding hazards.
When a bicycle lane is provided, cyclists are required to use it unless they are making a left turn, avoiding hazards, or overtaking another vehicle.
Cyclists under the age of 18 must wear a helmet.
CVC §21201
Riders are required to use white light that is visible from 300 feet and rear lights that can clearly be seen from 500 feet away when riding in the dark.
Los Angeles Municipal Code for Bicycles
Bicycle Riding on Sidewalks
No person shall ride, operate, or use a bicycle in a way that shows disregard for the safety of persons or property on sidewalks, bikeways, or boardwalks (Sec. 56.15)
Ocean Front Walk Restrictions
Riding a bicycle or unicycle is prohibited on Ocean Front Walk between Marine Street and Via Marina, except along the designated bicycle path adjacent to Ocean Front Walk between Marine Street and Washington Boulevard (Sec. 56.15).
Beach Bicycle Path Restrictions
Bicycles or tricycles with side-by-side seating or any protruding attachments designed to carry additional passengers are prohibited on beach bicycle paths or designated areas of beaches set aside for cycling (Sec. 56.15).
Parking and Driving Restrictions in Parks
Vehicles, including motor vehicles and motorcycles, are prohibited from driving or parking on any path, trail, or bridle path in public parks, playgrounds, or recreational areas unless specifically posted for parking (Sec. 86.06).
Bicycle Seats
A person operating a bicycle must ride on the permanent and regular seat attached to the bike. No one may carry another person unless they are seated on a firmly attached rear seat (Sec. 80.27).
Clinging to Moving Vehicles
It is illegal to attach yourself or your bicycle to any moving vehicle while riding on any roadway (Sec. 80.28).
Prohibited Actions Against Bicyclists
It is illegal to physically assault, threaten harm, intentionally injure, distract, or force a bicyclist off the road just because they are riding a bike, unless it’s for public safety (Sec. 45.96.02).
Electric Bicycle (E-Bike) Classifications and Rules in Los Angeles
Los Angeles follows California State Vehicle Code Rules of the Road for bicycles
E-Bike Classifications
Under California law, e-bikes fall into three classes:
Class 1
Pedal-assist only (no throttle), stops assisting at 20 mph.
Class 2
Throttle and pedal-assist, motor assistance caps at 20 mph.
Class 3
Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph. Riders must be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet at all times.
Los Angeles E-bike Laws
Age & Helmet Requirements
- Class 1 & 2 – No statewide age restriction, but helmets are required for riders under 18.
- Class 3 – Riders must be 16 or older, and helmets are required for all riders.
Where Can You Ride and ebike in LA?
- Bike lanes and roads – All classes permitted, though Class 3 bikes may be restricted in some areas.
- Multi-use paths – Typically limited to Class 1 and 2 e-bikes.
- Sidewalks – In Los Angeles, you must be 10 years old or younger to ride on the sidewalk.
E-bike legislation is continuously evolving. It’s always best to check with your local Los Angeles municipality for the most current rules on where and how electric bikes can be ridden.
For a full breakdown of California’s latest e-bike laws, including 2025 legislative updates, visit our California E-Bike Laws guide.
RESOURCES for Los Angeles Cyclists
Advocating for better bike laws and safer roads in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Department of Transportation’s Bicycling in LA initiative is focused on making cycling a safer, more comfortable, and accessible option for everyone.
CicLAvia is a nonprofit organization that transforms Los Angeles streets into car-free public spaces, encouraging biking, walking, and community connection.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I'm hit by a car while riding my bike in Los Angeles?
Call 911, seek medical attention, and file a police report. Don’t speak to insurance adjusters before consulting a Los Angeles bike accident attorney. Document the scene by taking photos of your injuries, damaged bicycle, and the accident location.
Who is responsible for a bicycle accident in Los Angeles?
Liability may fall on a negligent driver, a company vehicle operator, a government agency responsible for road maintenance, or even a property owner. Los Angeles’s complex street system and heavy traffic create unique liability situations that an experienced bicycle accident lawyer can help navigate.
How much does it cost to hire a Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney?
At Bike Legal, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront—we only get paid if we win your case. This arrangement allows injured cyclists throughout Los Angeles County to access quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.
What are the most dangerous areas for cyclists in Los Angeles?
Some of the most hazardous areas include major arterial roads like Western Avenue, Vermont Avenue, and Olympic Boulevard, particularly at busy intersections. Downtown LA presents challenges with heavy traffic and dooring risks, while the San Fernando Valley’s wide streets often lead to high-speed collisions. Bike Legal’s local expertise helps us understand these location-specific risks when building your case.