Yes. Riders are generally allowed on all sidewalks in Los Angeles, but they must only use the sidewalk when they can safely ride without hurting people or damaging property. Bicyclists must also always yield to pedestrians.
Los Angeles Bicycles on Sidewalks Law
California doesn’t have a law prohibiting bicycles from using sidewalks. State lawmakers leave the matter to local cities and counties to decide.
Many California cities allow riders on sidewalks, but with some exceptions in areas of high foot traffic, like business districts. However, Los Angeles generally allows bicyclists on all sidewalks throughout the city.
The Los Angeles Municipal Code does hold riders to a standard of safety when they choose to leave the street.
SEC. 56.15. BICYCLE RIDING – SIDEWALKS.
(Amended by Ord. No. 148,990, Eff. 12/17/76.)
- No person shall ride, operate or use a bicycle, unicycle, skateboard, cart, wagon, wheelchair, rollerskates, or any other device moved exclusively by human power, on a sidewalk, bikeway or boardwalk in a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. (Amended by Ord. No. 166,189, Eff. 10/7/90.)
Bicyclists must not climb onto a sidewalk if they can’t do so safely. They must show caution to people on foot. They must use good judgment when a sidewalk is already crowded with pedestrians and structures.
That caution should extend to anyone who is sitting on a sidewalk or set up along a sidewalk. It’s a responsibility expected from those on skateboards and roller skates as well.
Sidewalk Accident Dangers for Los Angeles Cyclists
Riders may choose the sidewalk along Ventura Boulevard or Wilshire Boulevard simply to put a little distance between themselves and the rush of traffic. But bicyclists can also find hazards, even away from cars and SUVs. They might find themselves constantly having to dodge large cracks and tree roots once they are up on sidewalks.
Sidewalks should be maintained by the City and, in some cases, by homeowners and business owners.
If a sidewalk crumbles or a gap between the concrete segment and the curb widens, and a rider suffers an accident, victims can seek help with the recovery bills. That help can come from the City of L.A. In some cases, a claim can be filed against someone’s homeowners insurance or against a business’s commercial liability insurance.
When a property owner or operator knew about the issue, or should have known, and still didn’t take steps to repair the problem, it becomes even easier for riders to prove negligence and secure compensation. A skilled Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer can help you collect the evidence you need to take on the city and gain support for your medical bills.
Read more about the help available to you if you are injured because of a sidewalk crack in Los Angeles.
Do I Need a Lawyer After a Bicycle Accident in Los Angeles?
If you are struck by a careless driver or taken down by a crumbling sidewalk and your injuries are serious, you may win much more for your injury claim with a skilled lawyer’s help. A Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer can help prevent a car insurance company from trying to shift the blame in the accident. A skilled lawyer can also help an injured rider earn more to cover current medical costs and the costs for care in the future.
A lawyer can also help you file an injury claim against the City of Los Angeles if you are seriously hurt after going over a pothole or a crack in a sidewalk.
If you are unsure if you need a lawyer’s help, there’s an easy way to find out. You can contact Maison Law of Visalia for a free, confidential case consultation. There’s no obligation, but if you need our help, you don’t have to worry about how you’ll pay a lawyer. Maison Law doesn’t get paid unless we win your case for you. Then our fee comes out of the settlement check that an insurance company must send you.
