10 Most Common Bicycle Accidents in California

In Southern California, many people choose to ride bicycles as a cost-effective and healthy way to travel medium distances. In many cases, especially within the Hispanic community, bicycles are also an alternative for those who cannot obtain a driver’s license. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are a daily occurrence. Knowing which types are most common can give you an idea of how to prevent them or what to do if they happen.

If you’ve been hit while riding a bicycle, having a bicycle accident lawyer will give you a better chance of obtaining the maximum compensation you’re entitled to by law. It’s not fair for you to pay for damages caused by someone else or to settle for the first offer you receive. Recover lost wages, cover medical bills, and gain multiple benefits with the help of a professional.

Call My Lawyer Mark at (866) 721-5808 for a free consultation.

List of the Most Frequent Bicycle Accidents in California

1. Collision with a Crossing Vehicle
   These are the most common and occur when a cyclist and a vehicle meet at an intersection. To prevent them, cyclists should remain visible and take precautions to ensure that drivers can see them.
2. Left Hook
   This happens when a vehicle turns left and collides with a cyclist approaching from the opposite direction. Cyclists should be cautious when turning left and make sure vehicles yield to them.
3. Right Hook
   Occurs when a vehicle traveling in the same direction as the cyclist turns right and strikes them. Cyclists should position themselves correctly in the lane and be aware of vehicles making turns.
4. Head-On Collision
   This occurs when a vehicle collides with a cyclist traveling in the opposite direction. To avoid this, cyclists should always ride with traffic.
5. Rear-End Collision
   Happens when a vehicle hits a cyclist from behind. Cyclists should use rear lights and stay aware of vehicles approaching from behind.
6. Collision at a Traffic Light or Stop Sign
   This occurs when a vehicle hits a cyclist with the right of way at a traffic light or stop sign. Cyclists should obey traffic laws and watch for vehicles that do not yield.
7. “Doorings”
   Occurs when a cyclist collides with a car door that suddenly opens. Cyclists should be cautious of parked cars and ride with care.
8. Distracted or Impaired Driving
   This is a danger to all road users, including cyclists. Cyclists should stay alert to drivers who appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs and avoid high-traffic areas with such drivers.
9. Collision at an Uncontrolled Intersection
   Occurs when two vehicles collide at an intersection with no traffic light or stop sign. Cyclists should slow down and yield to vehicles already in the intersection.
10. Side-Impact Collision

Happens when a vehicle strikes a cyclist from the side. Cyclists should remain visible and position themselves correctly in the lane.

Counties with the Most Bicycle Accidents

In California, counties with the highest number of bicycle accidents are generally the larger, more densely populated regions. According to the most recent data:

• Los Angeles County consistently ranks first in terms of cyclist fatalities and serious injuries. In 2021, Los Angeles reported 27 cyclist fatalities and 240 serious injuries.
• San Diego County follows with significant numbers, reporting 16 fatalities and 71 serious injuries.
• Orange County also shows a high incidence of bicycle accidents, with 9 fatalities and 78 serious injuries.
• Riverside County and Santa Clara County reported 10 and 9 fatalities, respectively, indicating notable accident rates.
• Other notable counties include Sacramento and San Francisco, which also report high numbers of serious bicycle accident injuries.

These statistics highlight the need for improved safety measures for cyclists in these areas. Counties with the highest accident rates often align with larger urban populations and higher traffic densities, which require targeted safety initiatives and infrastructure improvements to protect cyclists.

If you’re looking for a “personal injury lawyer near me” to file a bicycle accident claim, call Mi Abogado Mark at (866) 721-5808. We have offices in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, San Bernardino, Fresno, and Victorville. If your injuries prevent you from traveling, we can come to you. We serve all of Southern California.