With scenic views, clear skies, and wide streets, Los Angeles may seem appealing to cyclists across the country. However, the city remains a top region for cyclist fatalities in California and across the United States. In 2018, 21 cyclists were killed in traffic-related accidents in LA. Additionally, between 2016 and 2018, LA experienced twice as many cyclist fatalities compared to Sacramento and 80 percent more than San Diego. In recent years, bicycle fatalities have increased despite the city’s Vision Zero plan to reduce severe injuries and fatalities.
Causes of Cyclist Fatalities in Los Angeles
In 2018, reported cyclist fatalities in California were nearly 25 percent higher than the U.S. average. Further evidence shows that the occurrence of fatal accidents in California and the United States have increased. There are several reasons why this may be occurring, including an increase in time that Americans are driving, distracted driving, and a shift to larger vehicles on the road. In addition to changes in driving trends, some accidents in Los Angeles have occurred from a lack of safety measures by the city. In 2018, Los Angeles and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) paid over $9 million after a cyclist was struck while attempting to avoid debris that city officials repeatedly failed to clean up.
Los Angeles’s Plan for the Future
The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) introduced a Vision Zero plan to reduce overall traffic fatalities within the city. The Vision Zero plan aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries by 2035 through the implementation of several safety measures. This includes adding more bike lanes to LA streets, enforcing traffic safety laws, and reducing pedestrian right-of-way violations. However, despite the plan being implemented in 2015, both cyclist and pedestrian accidents have increased within LA.
Contact an Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident, you may be able to hold negligent motorists accountable and pursue compensation. An experienced bicycle accident lawyer from Karlin & Karlin could advise you on your rights and guide you through the specifics of your claim. To talk to one of our knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyers, schedule a confidential case evaluation today.
