Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Why do I need a bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles? Proving liability under California Civil Code § 1714 often involves gathering evidence, addressing questions about fault, and dealing with insurance companies, making it difficult to handle without the help of a bicycle accident lawyer. In Los Angeles, busy roads and the circumstances surrounding a bicycle accident can make the claims process even more challenging. A lawyer can manage your case, handle negotiations, and allow you to focus on your recovery.

Los Angeles offers some of the most beautiful cycling routes in the country, from the Marvin Braude Bike Trail to the urban streets of Downtown Los Angeles. However, with heavy congestion on I-405, distracted drivers on surface streets, and a lack of protected bike lanes in many neighborhoods, cyclists remain at a higher risk of serious accidents. When these accidents happen, having a bicycle accident lawyer who understands both California bicycle laws and the tactics insurance companies use can make a meaningful difference.

The experienced personal injury lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers have been representing injured cyclists and other accident victims throughout California since 1972. Our firm has the experience and resources to handle these claims and work to pursue rightful compensation for our clients.

• Over 50 years of representing injured Californians, supported by real client testimonials
• More than $2 billion recovered in case results
• Personal injury lawyers backed by experience and professional recognition through awards and affiliations
• Our team is available 24/7 to answer your call and offer a free consultation
• Contingency fee-based representation, so you pay no attorney fees unless compensation is recovered

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter.

Speak with a bicycle accident lawyer at Jacoby & Meyers to learn more about your rights and your options for recovering compensation.

What Our Clients Have To Say

What do the days after a bicycle accident often look like for cyclists?

The days after a bicycle accident are often spent recovering from injuries, but the claims process usually begins at the same time. While focusing on medical treatment, injured cyclists may also need to meet important deadlines, gather records, and respond to insurance companies.

Cyclists often face challenges such as:

• Ongoing medical treatment: Serious injuries may require weeks or months of treatment, rehabilitation, or follow-up care.
• Getting a copy of the police report: Reports from the Los Angeles Police Department or the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department may take a week or longer to become available.
• Filing and SR-1 Form: The California Department of Motor Vehicles may require an SR-1 Form to be submitted within 10 days after an accident involving injuries or qualifying property damage.
• Insurance companies reaching out: Insurance companies often begin investigating the accident soon after they are notified and may contact injured cyclists before they fully understand the extent of their injuries.

Understanding these challenges can help injured cyclists stay on track and better manage the claims process while focusing on their recovery.

What should you do after a bicycle accident in Los Angeles?

After a bicycle accident, prioritize your safety, report the accident to the proper authorities, and document what happened whenever possible. Taking these steps can help protect your health and preserve important information for your claim.

• Get medical care right away. Seek medical attention from emergency responders or visit a medical facility easily accessible to you. Even if your injuries do not seem serious, adrenaline can mask symptoms of head, spinal, or internal injuries.
• Report the accident. Call the Los Angeles Police Department or the nearest Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department station to report the accident and request an official police report.
• Document and preserve evidence. If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, your bicycle, and the vehicle involved. Collect contact information from witnesses while details are still fresh.

While bicycles are allowed on major roads such as the Pacific Coast Highway and Angeles Crest Highway, sharing these roads with larger and faster-moving vehicles can increase the risk of serious accidents. Knowing what to do after a bicycle accident can make the claims process and your recovery more manageable.

What are the common injuries in bicycle accident cases?

Because cyclists lack the protection of a vehicle chassis, bicycle accidents can result in serious and life-changing injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, lacerations, and internal injuries.

Cyclists are especially vulnerable on Los Angeles roads, where heavy traffic and larger vehicles increase the risk of severe injuries. If emergency medical care is needed, seek treatment through the nearest LA County Emergency Services facility, such as Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles General Medical Center, or Olive View-UCLA Medical Center.

Common bicycle accident injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Concussions and severe brain trauma can occur even when wearing a helmet.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in partial or total paralysis, requiring lifetime care.
• Broken Bones: Fractures to the collarbone, arms, and legs are common upon impact with the ground or a vehicle.
• Laceration: Deep cuts caused by contact with the roadway, bicycle components, or another vehicle may require stitches or surgery.
• Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Severe abrasions can lead to infection and permanent scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Trauma to organs often requires emergency surgery.

Who may be liable for a bicycle accident in Los Angeles?

Responsibility for a bicycle accident may fall on a driver, the cyclist, another cyclist, a government entity, a manufacturer, or another party whose negligence contributed to the accident, under California Civil Code § 1714.

Possible liable parties include:

• Negligent drivers. Motorists are the most common cause of bicycle accidents. Speeding, distracted driving, unsafe turns, failure to yield, or opening a car door into a bike lane can all lead to devastating injuries for cyclists.
• Employers and commercial entities. If the driver who struck you was working at the time, such as a delivery driver, rideshare driver, or commercial truck operator, their employer may be legally responsible for the harm caused. However, liability still depends on the nature of the accident. 
• Government entities. Poorly designed or maintained roads, missing bike lanes, dangerous intersections, potholes, or malfunctioning traffic signals can put cyclists at serious risk. In these cases, responsibility may rest with the City of Los Angeles, Caltrans, or another public agency, subject to special legal rules and deadlines.
• Manufacturers of defective products. If a defect in your bicycle, helmet, brakes, or other safety equipment contributed to your injuries, you may have a claim against the manufacturer or distributor under product liability laws.

More than one party may be responsible for a bicycle accident. Identifying every potentially liable party is often an important step in pursuing compensation that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.

What are the damages you may recover after a bicycle accident?

After a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses recognized under California Civil Code §§ 3281–3294. Depending on the circumstances of your case, these damages generally fall into three categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in limited cases, punitive damages.

Economic Damages

These damages cover measurable financial losses, including:

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and rehabilitation.
• Future medical care: Ongoing physical therapy, follow-up treatment, or in-home assistance.
• Lost income: Wages lost while you were unable to work during recovery.
• Reduced earning capacity: Compensation if your injuries prevent you from returning to your prior job or working at full capacity.
• Property damage: Repair or replacement of your bicycle, helmet, and other damaged gear.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages recognize the personal toll of a bicycle accident:

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional anguish caused by the injuries.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: When injuries limit your ability to ride, exercise, or participate in daily activities.
• Permanent disability or disfigurement: Compensation for scarring, loss of mobility, or long-term impairment.
• Emotional distress: Anxiety, PTSD, depression, or fear of riding again after the crash.

Punitive Damages

Under California Civil Code § 3294, punitive damages are only awarded if the at-fault party is proven to be extremely negligent or malicious in their action leading to the accident.

The value of a bicycle accident claim depends on the severity of the injuries, the financial losses involved, and how the accident has affected your daily life. Every case is different, which is why damages should be evaluated based on the specific facts of the claim.

Our Personal Injury Case Results

Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in Los Angeles and throughout Southern California. Some of our personal injury case results include:

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

What is the deadline for filing a bicycle accident claim?

California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1 generally gives injured cyclists 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if your claim involves a government entity, such as a Los Angeles Metro bus or a dangerous condition on public property, such as a pothole, the deadline is much shorter, typically 6 months. 

Failing to file within these timeframes can prevent you from pursuing compensation, so it is important to act promptly after a bicycle accident.

Pitfall Alert: What if I was not on a bike lane when the accident happened?

Not being in a bike lane does not automatically prevent you from pursuing a claim after a bicycle accident. Depending on the circumstances, drivers still have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and watch for cyclists sharing the road. The specific facts of the accident will help determine who may be legally responsible. 

Many roads in Los Angeles, such as Wilton Place and La Brea Avenue, do not have designated bike lanes, but cyclists are still legally allowed to ride on them. Even if a bike lane was available and you were riding outside of it, you may still be able to recover compensation under California’s pure comparative negligence rule. If you were partly at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your share of the fault, but you may still have the right to file a claim.

Why do you need a bicycle accident lawyer for your case?

A Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer can handle the legal issues involved in a bike accident claim, including disputed liability, serious injuries, insurance negotiations, and legal procedures, so you can focus on your recovery without overlooking important parts of your claim.

From the start of your case, a lawyer can investigate the accident, gather evidence, establish liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court.

Opponent Playbook

Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their goal is often to reduce the value of a claim, and they may do this by:

• Questioning whether your injuries were caused by the accident or by a pre-existing condition.
• Disputing liability or arguing that the cyclist was partly at fault.
• Pressuring you to accept a settlement before the full extent of your injuries is known.
• Using statements, photographs, or other evidence to minimize the value of your claim.

Injured cyclists are often faced with these challenges while still receiving medical treatment and trying to recover.

How a Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney helps your case

• Handles all insurance communications: We deal directly with adjusters, so you don’t have to navigate confusing or manipulative conversations.
• Builds a strong, evidence-backed claim: From accident reports to medical records and expert opinions, we assemble the proof needed to support your case.
• Counters blame and bias against cyclists: We challenge unfair assumptions and comparative negligence arguments used to devalue claims.
• Calculates the true value of your injuries: We account for medical care, future treatment, lost income, and the personal impact of your injuries.
• Negotiates aggressively for fair compensation: Insurers know we prepare cases for trial, which often leads to stronger settlement offers.
• Protects deadlines and legal requirements: We ensure all filings are completed accurately and on time, especially for filings with government entities.

You can trust Jacoby & Meyers to handle the legal process, paperwork, and negotiations on your behalf while you focus on your recovery.

What does a bicycle accident claim process look like?

A bicycle accident claim usually begins with a review of your case, followed by an investigation, evidence gathering, insurance negotiations, and, if necessary, court proceedings. Every claim is different, so the process and timeline depend on the injuries, available evidence, and whether fault is disputed.

1. Case Review: A bicycle accident lawyer reviews how the accident happened, your injuries, and the available evidence to determine the best approach for your claim.
2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Police reports, medical records, witness statements, surveillance footage, traffic camera recordings, and other available evidence are collected to help establish liability.
3. Case Building: The available evidence, medical records, property damage, and other documentation are organized to support your claim and the compensation being sought.
4. Insurance Negotiations: The claim is submitted to the insurance company, and settlement discussions begin based on the available evidence and damages.
5. Case Resolution: If all parties agree on an amount, the claim is resolved through settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the claim may proceed to litigation through the Los Angeles Superior Court system, where a judge or jury may decide the outcome.

While every bicycle accident claim follows a similar process, the time required to resolve a case depends on the circumstances of the accident, the severity of the injuries, and whether the parties can reach a settlement.

What qualities should you look for when choosing a bicycle accident lawyer in LA?

A serious bicycle accident can change your life in seconds, so it is important to find a team that understands what’s at stake and has the experience, skills, and resources to protect your future.

When choosing a bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles, consider asking the following questions to determine whether the firm has the experience and qualifications to handle your case.

Does the lawyer have experience handling bicycle accident cases?

Bicycle accidents involve unique legal and medical challenges. Cyclists are far more vulnerable than drivers, and injuries are often severe. Liability may involve drivers, employers, government entities, or unsafe road conditions. Your lawyer should have proven experience handling bicycle accident claims arising from traffic collisions, dooring incidents, hit-and-runs, and roadway hazards.

Our firm has decades of experience representing injured cyclists and has recovered over $2 billion for injury victims across California, demonstrating our ability to handle high-stakes cases where long-term care and financial stability are on the line.

Does the firm have the resources to investigate complex bicycle accidents?

Bicycle accident cases often require more than a police report to establish liability. Surveillance footage, traffic camera recordings, accident reconstruction, roadway inspections, and expert analysis may all play an important role, especially when fault is disputed or multiple parties may be responsible.

For more than 50 years, Jacoby & Meyers has built the relationships and resources needed to investigate complex bicycle accident claims, preserve important evidence, and work with qualified experts when necessary.

Is the firm respected within the legal community?

Reputation matters in serious injury cases. Recognition from peer-reviewed legal organizations reflects professionalism, ethical standards, and consistent results, not marketing promises.

Our attorneys have been recognized by organizations such as Super Lawyers and TopVerdict, highlighting our commitment to excellence in representing clients with serious and catastrophic injuries.

Do they understand Los Angeles–specific cycling risks and legal challenges?

Local knowledge can make a meaningful difference. A skilled bicycle accident lawyer should be familiar with Los Angeles courts, judges, filing requirements, and the insurance tactics commonly used in California, especially in cases involving bike lanes, intersections, and government-maintained roadways.

With over 50 years of experience serving Los Angeles and communities statewide, our firm combines local insight with firm-wide resources to handle complex bicycle accident claims effectively.

Are they prepared to take your case to trial if necessary?

Some firms aim for quick settlements, even when the offer doesn’t reflect the true impact of a bicycle accident. Strong outcomes are more likely when insurance companies know your lawyer is prepared to go to court.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we prepare every bicycle accident case as if it will be decided by a jury, ensuring your rights are protected whether your case resolves through negotiation or trial.

What Our Clients Say

The experiences shared by former clients reflect the trust they place in us and the lasting partnerships we build together.

“I would definitely give Jacoby and Meyers a five-star review. They are handling everything related to my case, and the process has gone relatively smoothly. A special thanks to Jessica Martinez for her constant updates and for making sure I get everything I need.” – Edwin Furlow from Google Review.

Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.

Results That Help Injured Families Move Forward

When a bicycle accident results in catastrophic injury or the loss of a loved one, the outcome of a legal case can shape what comes next: access to medical care, financial stability, and long-term security. For decades, Jacoby & Meyers has helped injured individuals and families rebuild after life-altering accidents, securing more than $2 billion in verdicts and settlements across California.

• $17.5 million — Bicycle vs. truck collision resulting in catastrophic paralysis
• $13 million — Wrongful death claim involving a city or municipality
• $11 million — Motorcycle vs. truck crash leading to paraplegia
• $1,850,000 settlement — Pedestrian vs. vehicle

These outcomes reflect a consistent ability to pursue meaningful compensation in cases involving severe injuries and tragic loss. For injured cyclists and their families, such results often provide the financial foundation needed for medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost income, and long-term support.

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes, but they demonstrate our experience handling complex, high-value injury cases.

Areas We Serve

Jacoby & Meyers represents injured cyclists throughout Los Angeles and California. Our legal services extend across Los Angeles County, including:

• Santa Monica
• Glendale
• Santa Clarita
• Pomona
• Pasadena
• Inglewood

With 14 offices across California, we provide the reach of a statewide firm with the local knowledge needed to handle bicycle accident claims throughout Los Angeles and surrounding communities.

• Orange County
• San Jose
• San Francisco
• San Diego
• San Bernardino
• Sacramento
• Ontario
• Oakland
• Los Angeles
• Fresno 
• Escondido
• Brea
• Long beach
• Bakersfield

Wherever you ride, and wherever your accident happens, experienced legal representation is always within reach.

Los Angeles Local Resources

Emergency Rooms

• Los Angeles General Medical Center 1200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
• Harbor-UCLA Medical Center– 1000 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90509
• Olive View-UCLA Medical Center -14445 Olive View Dr. Sylmar, CA 91342
• Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center– 1401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015
• Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center – 1300 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Urgent Care Centers

• Care Fast Urgent Care- Burbank – 353 N Pass Ave Ste D Burbank, CA 91505
• First Aid Urgent Care – 7204 Foothill Blvd, Tujunga, CA 91042
• Edward R. Roybal Comprehensive Health Center – 245 S. Fetterly Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90022
• H. Claude Hudson Comprehensive Health Center – 2829 South Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90007
• Ladera Urgent Care – 5311 W Centinela Av,e Los Angeles, CA 90045

Local Courthouses

• Airport Courthouse – 11701 S. La Ciene,ga Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Central Arraignment Courthouse – 429 Bauchet St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center – 210 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Disclaimer: We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the accident involved a rideshare vehicle?

You may still have a valid claim if your bicycle accident involved an Uber or Lyft vehicle. Rideshare accidents can be more complicated because Uber and Lyft have tiered insurance policies. Coverage depends on whether the driver had the app on, was waiting for a ride request, or was transporting a passenger. A bicycle accident lawyer can help determine which insurance policy applies to your claim.

Who is usually at fault in a bicycle accident?

In bicycle accident cases, the person or party whose negligence is proven to have caused the accident is generally responsible for the resulting damages under California Civil Code § 1714. Negligent drivers can be at fault for failing to yield, speeding, driving while distracted, or opening a vehicle door into a cyclist’s path. However, liability may also involve employers, government entities, manufacturers, or other negligent parties.

What if my symptoms appear later?

Delayed symptoms are common after a bicycle accident and should never be ignored. Injuries such as whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, and internal injuries may not appear until hours or days after the crash. If new symptoms develop, seek medical care as soon as possible at Los Angeles General Medical Center, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, or another nearby medical facility. Avoid signing any settlement or release documents until your injuries have been fully evaluated.

Can I still claim damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes. While California Vehicle Code § 21212 requires helmets for riders under 18, adults are not legally required to wear them. An insurance company may try to argue that your injuries would be less severe with a helmet, but this does not bar you from seeking compensation for the accident itself.

What if the driver fled the scene?

You may still have options for recovering compensation after a hit-and-run accident. If the driver cannot be identified, you may be able to seek benefits through the uninsured motorist (UM) coverage of your own automobile insurance policy. California Insurance Code § 11580.2 governs uninsured motorist coverage, which may apply even if you were riding a bicycle instead of driving a car.

How much does it cost to hire Jacoby & Meyers?

At our firm, it costs you nothing upfront to hire a bicycle accident lawyer. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning our fees come out of the settlement or verdict we win for you. If we don’t win, you don’t pay us attorney fees.

For more information, visit our FAQ page.

Get the Justice You Deserve

You shouldn’t have to pay the price for someone else’s negligence. At Jacoby & Meyers, we are dedicated to helping injured cyclists get the financial support they need to heal. We are open 24/7 to take your call, answer your questions, and start building your case.

Call us today for a free consultation. Remember, there are no fees unless we win.

Other Cases We Take On

• Car Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Dog Bites
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Premises Liability
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Construction Accidents
• Boat Accident
• Paraplegia Injury
• Brain Injuries
• Catastrophic Injuries
• Burn Injuries
• Wrongful Death
• Laceration Injury
• Orthopedic Injury
• Whiplash Injury
• Amputations
• Broken Bone Injuries
• Neck Injuries
• Quadriplegia Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Back Injury
• Rideshare Accidents