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Avoiding a Pacific Coast Highway Bicycle Collision

By Hess & Nghiem on January 10, 2022

The Pacific Coast Highway is a favored route for cyclists but is also where serious or fatal bike accidents happen every year. Frustrated, speeding, drunk, or distracted drivers may fail to notice a cyclist sharing the road, or drive recklessly, slamming into a cyclist.

Orange County Beaches Along the PCH – The Ideal Ride.

Cyclists love to visit the many fantastic beaches and towns along the Orange County section of the PCH, including:

  • Huntington City Beach and Pier
  • Crystal Cove State Park
  • Dog Beach
  • Laguna Beach
  • Dana Point
  • Sunset Beach
  • Newport Beach
  • Long Beach

Cyclist Accidents on the PCH: Common Dangers

Unfortunately, the PCH is also the location of many serious or deadly accidents. Even with bike lanes, drivers who are speeding, drunk, distracted, or driving recklessly. Some drivers resent cyclists, and while cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers, they may be the target of aggressive driving behavior. With California bike fatalities now at a 25-year high, with 455 fatalities in a recent year, cyclists are at risk while traveling on the PCH. Some of the most common dangers to cyclists on this highway include:

Injuries in PCH Bicycle Accidents in Orange County

The types of injuries sustained by cyclists can be life-altering. They include:

  • Brain injuries (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Head and neck injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Severe or disfiguring abrasions
  • Internal injuries
  • Amputations

A cyclist who has been injured while riding on the PCH may be unable to work, suffer catastrophic injuries, or dies. In these cases, a claim or lawsuit can be filed to seek the full range of compensatory damages, both economic and non-economic, such as pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, and others. With the help of HN Injury Lawyers, you can be confident that your case is in the hands of a respected trial lawyer with an extensive record of successful personal injury claims.

How to Safely Cycle the PCH in Orange County

The PCH does not have bike lanes, and cyclists have no option other than riding at the side of the road, or on the shoulder. To do all you can to avoid a deadly accident, follow these rules:

  • As much as possible, ride on the shoulder or the far right of the right lane.
  • Do not ride next to other cyclists.
  • Be on high alert for distracted or aggressive drivers.
  • When approaching parked vehicles along the side, ensure you do not move into the driving lane until it is safe to do so.
  • Always cycle with great caution.
  • If a driver acts aggressively towards you, do not engage, but drop back.
  • Follow all traffic laws to the letter.
  • Wear bright clothing.

Driver Safety – How to Avoid Hitting a Bicycle Rider

Drivers on the PCH should exercise great caution when cyclists are using the road. As they encounter parked cars along the side of the road, they have no option other than entering the lane of traffic – be alert. Do not open your car door when parked along the side of the PCH without first checking for cyclists. Show respect for cyclists, even if you feel they are breaking the rules. Drive at the speed limit, and do not veer onto the shoulder of the road for any reason. If parking, thoroughly check before pulling over.

Contact an Orange County Bicycle Accident Attorney Immediately

In cases of serious injuries, it is imperative that you have legal representation to help you seek all forms of compensation. At HN Injury Lawyers, we have a reputation for legal excellence in personal injury law. When we take on an Orange County bicycle accident case, we thoroughly investigate the facts, craft a compelling case, and pursue every form of compensation possible.

Call us today at (657) 333-5726 today for a free case consultation with no time limit.

Posted in: Bicycle Accident

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