The Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Santa Ana

Santa Ana has a vibrant cyclist community, reflecting a diverse local population that values sustainability and active transportation. The city’s cyclists like to organize events at local venues such as The Bicycle Tree, a nonprofit community bike center and shop in Santa Ana. However, cyclists in Santa Ana face significant challenges due to serious gaps in cycling infrastructure. The city has long stretches of road without dedicated bike lanes, forcing cyclists to share the lane with fast-moving vehicles. This can be intimidating and dangerous, especially on busy streets without clear demarcations for bike paths.
Efforts have been made to improve conditions, but the pace of change is often slow, and existing infrastructure fails to meet the growing demand. Cyclists must navigate these obstacles daily, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and investment in a more bike-friendly Santa Ana.
When Careless Drivers Cause Bike Accidents
Unfortunately, drivers don’t always follow California’s Three Feet for Safety Act, which requires motorists to give cyclists three feet of space when passing. Speeding, sudden lane changes, and failure to merge are just some types of careless driver behavior that cause catastrophic injuries for cyclists.
Bicycle riders in densely populated urban areas like Santa Ana are also particularly vulnerable to dooring incidents that occur when a driver or a driver-side passenger suddenly opens a vehicle door without first checking to see if someone is coming.
Another serious concern for Santa Ana bicycle riders, and bicyclists around the country, is distracted driving. It’s against the law to operate a handheld device while driving, but many motorists still use their phones when they should be paying attention to the road.
California has strict DUI laws to prevent intoxicated driving. Alcohol dramatically reduces key driving skills, such as judgment, coordination, depth perception, and reaction time. Sadly, drunk driving remains a serious problem in Santa Ana.
Common Road Hazards in Santa Ana
Santa Ana intersections in are particularly dangerous for cyclists. Drivers who fail to look out for cyclists when making a turn can cause dangerous collisions. Traffic signals may not always accommodate the speed and flow of bicycle traffic, and the timing of lights may not give cyclists adequate time to cross safely. Parked cars near intersections may also obstruct a driver’s view of an approaching cyclist.
Potholes is another serious hazard that causes accidents and injuries for cyclists. Uneven paths, including cracks and raised surfaces, are also treacherous, especially when they’re not clearly visible, such as at night or when obscured by water or debris.
Cyclists have to be constantly vigilant and may need to swerve unexpectedly to avoid these obstacles, and such maneuvers can put them in the path of motor vehicles. Improving road maintenance is essential to prevent these risks and ensure the safety of all road users.
How an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney Can Help Your Case
Determining fault in vehicle-bicycle collisions is critical for resolving legal claims and securing compensation for injured cyclists. The process involves examining evidence from the scene, such as traffic signals, road signs, witness statements, and police reports. A knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer can effectively navigate the complexities of your claim, helping to ensure that your rights as a cyclist are protected, the responsible parties are held liable for their negligent actions, and you can focus on your recovery.
From gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if necessary, a lawyer’s guidance is invaluable. They can identify the full extent of your damages so you can seek fair compensation that covers all your expenses, such as medical bills, time missed from work, pain and suffering, medical devices, and reduced quality of life.
Our Santa Ana Bicycle Accident Attorneys Have Won Over $100 Million
If you suffered serious injuries in a Santa Ana bicycle crash, call HN Injury Lawyers. We can file a claim or lawsuit against anyone whose negligent behavior contributed to your injuries.
Firm partner Phillip B. Nghiem is recognized by the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and he has been selected as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers Magazine. Our partner, Ed Hess, has 30 years of litigation experience — having previously worked as an insurance and corporate defense litigator, representing major corporations and insurance companies, he knows how the other side thinks.
Call (657) 333-5726 today to schedule a FREE consultation with one of our bicycle accident attorneys in Santa Ana. You won’t owe us anything unless we win.
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