Distracted Driving - A Leading Cause of Bicycle Accidents in Orange County

We must talk about something that's becoming too common and dangerous: bicycle accidents caused by distracted driving.

Bicycle Accidents in Orange County

Southern California has seen a sudden rise in bike accidents since 2009, and according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), they've hit an all-time high this year.

Since there have been several reports of bicycle accidents in Orange County in recent years, understanding the factors responsible for these accidents is crucial for your safety.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Orange County

Bicycle accidents happen due to a variety of reasons, some of these can be:

1. Failure to Yield: When drivers fail to acknowledge the presence of cyclists, especially when making turns in bike lanes, severe collisions and bicycle crashes can occur.
2. Unsafe Lane Changes: This is another contributing factor where drivers tend to swerve through lanes and catch the bike rider off guard, causing an accident. 
3. Failure to Obey Traffic Laws: Reckless drivers tend to defy traffic rules and may not stop at stop signs jeopardizing the safety of everyone on the road, especially a vulnerable cyclist. 
4. Negligence of Drivers: Sometimes, a motor vehicle driver may not be attentive and run into a bicycle rider without warning. This comes under distracted driving and is one of the most common causes of bike accident cases in Orange County.

How Can You Stay Safe on the Road While Cycling?

With an increasing number of motor vehicle drivers on the road, bicycle riders must prioritize safety in preventing bicycle accidents by:

1. Wearing a Helmet: This is crucial when riding a bicycle. In a severe collision with a car, wearing a helmet may help you prevent a serious head injury.
2. Use Lights & Reflectors: When riding a bicycle at night, ensure your bike has lights and reflectors so an incoming motor vehicle can see you. 
3. Stay in Your Bike Lane: Orange County has designated bike lanes, so be sure to stay in your lane to prevent an accident.
4. Obey Traffic Laws: Traffic laws are in place for the safety of everyone on the road, so following them vigilantly ensures that you significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Careless Driving Contributes to Most Bicycle Accidents

You may have taken all safety measures on the road, but sometimes bicycle accidents still happen. Distracted driving diverts a driver's attention, whether texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other activities. It poses a significant threat to bike riders and causes them to sustain serious injuries. And distracted driving is one of the most common causes that may lead to these accidents.

Moreover, when drivers are distracted, their reaction time decreases, and their ability to spot other people, traffic signals, and stop signs diminishes. Hence, compromising their awareness of the road. This lethal combination increases the risk of severe collisions and accidents.

What Causes Negligence Among Drivers?

Various visual, manual, or cognitive distractions can cause negligence on the driver's part. And it is essential to understand the cause of a driver's neglect to establish liability in case of a bicycle accident claim. Because the defendant's insurance company may try to downplay the at-fault party's negligence to minimize payout.

1. Visual Distractions: This occurs when a driver takes their eyes off the road, like looking at a mobile phone, reading a map, or admiring something outside the vehicle.
2. Manual Distractions: This involves taking hands off the steering wheel, whether texting, reaching for objects, eating, or drinking while driving.
3. Cognitive Distractions: When you're not focused on the road, you're bound to cause accidents. Besides whatever the reason, it is crucial to follow traffic laws and stop at traffic signals to avoid severe injury and avoid hitting a cyclist or anyone on the road.

Impact of Impaired Driving on Bicycle Riders

To truly comprehend the repercussions of bike-related accidents due to a driver's negligence, it is crucial to understand its impact on a bicycle rider.

1. Severe Injuries: The consequences of bike accidents can be severe, and a cyclist may endure several injuries that may range from minor scratches to lacerations, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other debilitating disabilities.
2. Emotional Trauma: Accidents can cause deep emotional trauma to the victim, which may present as PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) whenever the bike rider is on the road.
3. Financial Burden: In the aftermath of an accident, financial burdens may entrap the victim. These can be from medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

What Are Common Bicycle Accident Injuries?

To stay vigilant, you must be aware of the potential injuries you might face as a cyclist. Some of the most common bicycle accident injuries include scrapes, bruises, and road rash—those not-so-fun souvenirs you get from falling off your bike.

But things can get more serious, too, especially when you're sharing a road with a negligent driver. Some of these injuries are:

1. Broken Bones: especially in the wrists, arms, and collarbones, are pretty common in bike accidents. 
2. Head Injury: This is a big concern, too, so wearing a helmet is an absolute must. Concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries can have long-lasting consequences. 
3. Lacerations: Let's not forget about cuts and lacerations that may require stitches.
4. Spinal Cord Injury: There can be significant injuries like spinal cord injuries, which can cause debilitating disabilities and may cause you to be bedbound either temporarily or permanently.

Laws in Orange County For Driver's Negligence

In Orange County, authorities have put strict laws in place to combat the dangers of reckless driving. The Orange County Sheriff's Department recognizes April as an Awareness Month for individuals who drive distracted, emphasizing the importance of putting down our phones and focusing on the road.

Under the California Vehicle Code, there is a Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS), a penalty set by the State of California against a negligent driver.

The following NOTS points are used to evaluate a negligent driver:

1. Speed
2. Unsafe Vehicle
3. Hit and Run
4. Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

Violations of these laws can result in fines and penalties, including points on your driving record. Law enforcement agencies in Orange County actively enforce these laws to ensure the safety of all road users. Hence. drivers need to understand the gravity of inattentive driving and comply with the laws to protect themselves and others on the road.

How Do These Laws Apply to Bicycle Accidents Caused by Distracted Drivers?

The laws are in place to protect all road users, including cyclists. So, if a driver's distraction leads to severely injured bicyclists, they can be held responsible for their actions.

Whether they were using their phone or engaging in other distracting behaviors, the law recognizes that negligence on the part of the driver can have serious consequences. As a cyclist, knowing that the laws are there to support your bicycle accident claim when needed is reassuring.

How to Know if You’re Eligible for a Claim?

If you or someone you know has been involved in a bicycle accident, seeking the guidance of a trusted and experienced bicycle accident attorney can significantly impact the outcome. Your lawyer will review your case and determine whether you’re eligible to file a claim or not. 

In addition, an experienced bicycle accident lawyer can provide valuable insights and support throughout the process, helping you understand the legal complexities and navigate the path to seek compensation. From assessing your case to negotiating with an insurance company, a skilled attorney can advocate for your rights and work toward a fair resolution.

Understanding the Process of Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim

Filing a personal injury claim with an insurance company can be a complex and lengthy process, but with an experienced attorney by your side, you can have peace of mind knowing that your case is in capable hands. Here’s what you need to do:

1.  Consult A Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Once you're in stable condition and ready to consult with a bicycle accident lawyer, choose a seasoned professional who can help you obtain maximum compensation. He/she can:

• Evaluate the details of your case.
• Determine who is at fault. 
• Advise on a potential reward you may be entitled to.
• Handle the nitty-gritty legal stuff while you focus on healing and recovery
  

Moreover, your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to secure a fair settlement. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will prepare your case for litigation and represent you in court.

So, don't hesitate to reach out and have a conversation with a bicycle accident attorney, who can guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions about your next steps.

2.  Get Your Case Reviewed

During the review process, you'll share the accident details: events, factors, and injuries. Based on this information, your lawyer will assess the case's strength and determine your legal options. He/she will analyze liability, explain laws, and discuss possible compensation entitlement.

Additionally, your lawyer can address any concerns or questions you may have, providing clarity and guidance on how to proceed. Reviewing your accident with a lawyer is crucial to protect your rights, seeking justice, and obtaining rightful compensation.

Types of Compensation Available for Bicycle Accident Victims

Bicycle accident victims may be entitled to various types of compensation to help them recover physically, emotionally, and financially. An experienced bicycle accident attorney would be able to help you determine that. Some of the compensations that you may be eligible for are:

1. Financial Compensation: This may include any medical expenses which cover the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, medications, therapy sessions, and any ongoing medical treatments related to the accident. This may also include lost wages as a result of being absent from work. 
2. Pain and Suffering Damages: These may also be awarded to account for the physical and emotional distress from the accident.
3. Punitive Damages: Suppose your attorney establishes that the accident was caused with malicious intent. In that case, the at-fault party may be liable for punitive damages. 
4. Property Damages: You may be eligible to receive property damages if your assets are affected. For example, if your bicycle is broken or any other valuable item is damaged due to the accident.

The specific types and amounts of compensation available depend on the circumstances of the case. Seeking compensation is not about profiting but obtaining support to rebuild your life after a bicycle accident.

Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney at Bike Legal

Bike Legal is dedicated to advocating for the rights of bicycle accident victims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. We understand that being in a bicycle accident may affect your physical and emotional health.

Our experienced team of bicycle accident lawyers has the knowledge and expertise to assess your case. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive a fair settlement for the damages you have endured due to the accident.

Call us at 877-245-3534 for a free consultation and get an insight on how to file your claim and explore your options for legal representation on your case.

FAQ’s: Causes of Bicycle Accidents

What Are the Leading Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

The leading causes of bicycle accidents can vary. Still, common factors include driver negligence, such as failure to yield or distracted driving, unsafe road conditions, door collisions, speeding, impaired driving, and inadequate visibility.

Am I Eligible for a Bicycle Accident Claim?

Eligibility for a bicycle accident claim depends on various factors, such as the circumstances of the accident, injuries sustained, and applicable laws. Consulting with a bicycle accident lawyer is crucial to assess your situation and determine your eligibility for a claim.

What Are the Laws in California That Support My Bicycle Accident Claim?

California has a point system called the Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS). The system holds motor vehicle drivers accountable for accidents caused by their negligence.