Long Beach Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Long Beach, you may have the right to pursue compensation under California law.

Bicycle crashes are especially dangerous because bicyclists absorb the full force of an impact. Even accidents at lower speeds can result in serious or permanent injuries.

The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez represents injured bicyclists throughout Long Beach, Los Angeles County, and nearby communities including Agoura Hills, Alhambra, Arcadia, and Artesia.

Bicycle Accident Claims in Long Beach — How Bicycle Accident Injury Cases Work

Bicycle accident cases in Long Beach often involve multiple responsible parties, and insurance carriers may challenge responsibility. A strong claim usually depends on preserving evidence early and clearly showing how the collision occurred.

Many bicycle crashes happen when drivers fail to yield, misjudge a cyclist’s right-of-way, or violate basic traffic rules. Other incidents involve roadway hazards such as loose gravel, poor visibility from blocked sight lines, or dangerous conditions that a cyclist had no reasonable opportunity to avoid.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Long Beach

• Drivers violating a cyclist’s right-of-way at intersections and driveways
• left-cross collisions involving vehicles turning across a cyclist’s path
• Distracted driving from phones and inattention near bike lanes
• Unsafe passing, speeding, or failing to provide safe clearance
• “Dooring” accidents where a vehicle door swings into a cyclist’s path
• Hazardous roadway conditions including construction debris and surface defects
• unidentified driver crashes where the at-fault driver leaves the scene

Bicycle Accident Injuries We See in Long Beach

Because cyclists are exposed, injuries are often life-changing and may require emergency care. Even when symptoms seem mild at first, injuries can worsen over time, especially involving the spine.

• head trauma and ongoing post-concussion symptoms
• Broken bones such as arms and orthopedic injuries requiring casting or surgery
• Neck injuries including herniated discs, nerve pain, and mobility limitations
• Road rash, abrasions, and soft tissue injuries
• Internal injuries that require hospital monitoring

Who May Be Liable for a Bicycle Accident in Long Beach

Liability depends on who caused the hazard. In many cases, more than one party may be responsible, including a driver, an employer, a property owner, or a public entity. We look for all responsible parties to avoid leaving compensation on the table.

• Negligent drivers who failed to drive safely around cyclists
• companies when a worker caused the crash while on the job
• municipal departments responsible for roadway design, signage, or maintenance
• businesses whose premises conditions contributed to the incident
• distributors when a defective bicycle part or safety component contributed to the injury

Compensation Available After a Bicycle Accident

An injured cyclist may be entitled to compensation for financial losses and the human impact caused by the crash. The value of a case often depends on medical needs and the strength of the evidence proving fault.

• Medical expenses including imaging and future treatment
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• loss of enjoyment of life
• sleep disruption and trauma-related symptoms
• disfigurement and long-term limitations

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents

What if they say I caused the crash?

California follows comparative negligence, which means you may still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. Insurers often try to minimize responsibility, so documenting the crash and preserving evidence matters.

What is the time limit for a bicycle accident case?

Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years, but shorter deadlines can apply when a government entity is involved. Acting early protects your rights and improves evidence.

Should I report the crash?

A police report is not required in every situation, but it can provide valuable documentation when liability is disputed. If possible, gather photos, witness information, and prompt medical records.