Los Angeles Cycling Safety – Bike Lanes and Bike Laws

Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Maison Law is an advocate for safe bicycle rides for all Los Angeles bicyclists and we represent riders when the carelessness of local drivers leaves them with serious injuries.

Our bicycle accident lawyers are committed to helping victims secure the support they need to recover fully. 

Schedule a free, no-obligation case consultation with a real lawyer.

To find out what you should demand from an at-fault driver’s car insurance, talk to a skilled, local lawyer in a free consultation.

Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer

STEP 1

Call Us For A Free Consulation

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STEP 2

Describe Your Accident Details

We will then discuss your legal options and decide whether to move your case forward.

STEP 3

Retain Maison Law w/ No Upfront Fees

We work on contingency. No attorney fees unless you win your case.

STEP 4

Receive Your Compensation

We will fight for you to earn the highest possible payout for your damages.

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Bicycle Accident?

If your bicycle collision only results in very minor injuries, like scrapes and bruising, you probably won’t earn more by hiring a lawyer. But defenseless cyclists often suffer much worse. If you suffer something serious like a disfigurement, fractured bones, or Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), and a careless driver is to blame, you should speak to a Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer.

Car insurance providers will do their best to limit the compensation you receive for your recovery. Your Maison Law representative will be a safeguard when an insurance adjuster attempts to blame you for what happened. You’ll also need protection when an insurance company tries to downplay your injuries and shortchange you on your medical bills. Maison Law can often secure much more for victims than they could by handling their cases themselves.

Educating Los Angeles Cyclists About the Laws Protecting Them

Los Angeles cyclists need to know about the rights they have, the bike lanes they have available, and the state and city ordinances meant to safeguard them. But they must also know about the plans in place to improve rider safety and remake dangerous streets and intersections.

Local bicyclists need to stay informed of the positives and the negatives of biking around L.A. It’s also a great idea for motorists to be reminded of the traffic laws that outline their important responsibilities when driving alongside cyclists.

How Many Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles Each Year?

Over the past three years (2021-2023) Los Angeles has averaged around 460 bicycle accidents involving injury a year. Those accidents led to an average of almost 17 tragic bicycle deaths a year.

In 2023, California’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) recorded 385 serious bicycle accidents in the city. That was down quite a bit from the 2022 and 2021 figures. As we make our way into 2025 and 2024’s official accident statistics are released, it will be interesting to see if the downward trend continues.

How Many New Bike Lanes Does Los Angeles Add Each Year?

Streetsblog LA reports on the addition of new bike lanes or bike lane improvements every fiscal year. In the 2023-2024 fiscal year, Los Angeles added 22.48 miles of lanes and improvements. That was down from 2021-2222’s 45 miles of bikeway additions.

Los Angeles and Los Angeles County Public Works maintain hundreds of miles of bike paths in the city. There are different kinds of bikeways in California, with some being more safe than others. Basically, the paths that offer the least interaction with vehicles are the safest for riders.

These are just a few examples of the streets around Los Angeles where lanes and paths for cyclists are provided:

Reseda Boulevard & Nordhoff Street

2nd Street and Broadway

9th Street and Main Street

Types of Bike Lanes Around Los Angeles

Los Angeles has built out a major network of bikeways. Riders can get in some exercise riding along the Los Angeles River without having to worry about the rush of traffic around them.

They can also take to the major Boulevards of Los Angeles to head to work or school. In many places, the risk of accidents is greatly reduced by a protected type of bike lane that puts protection between riders and fast-moving vehicles. You can see a map of Los Angeles bike lanes provided by BikeLA here. Cyclists rely on maps like this to pick out the safest routes, with the safest bike paths.

Overall are four types of bike paths found along Los Angeles roads:

Class I Bikeway – Paths where motorists aren’t allowed are the safest places for riders. Class I Bikeways are the safest routes for all cyclists. They can be just for bikes or be shared by cyclists, pedestrians, and joggers. But they are usually much more safe than riding along a street in between and beside cars, SUVs, trucks, and motorcycles.

Locally, many cyclists already enjoy Class I bikeways like the Los Angeles River Bikeway (LARIO) as pictured here.

Class II Bike Lanes – Class II bike lanes are the most common bike lanes. They are usually marked off with just white lines running down the side of the street.  Lanes should also have the occasional white bike symbol on the lane and bike path street signs above. Some Los Angeles bike lanes extending across intersections will be indicated with green paint.

A class II bike lane along South Silver Lake Boulevard is pictured below.

Class III Bike Routes – When there isn’t enough space for a bike lane along a busy street, cities sometimes create bike routes, known as Class III bikeways. There’s not much difference from a normal road, but the route designation is all about raising the awareness of drivers. Motorists will notice street signs and lane markings indicating bike routes. It’s a reminder that drivers must share the lanes. As a further reminder, some bike routes will have arrows painted on the road surface. These indicate where a rider should try to be when possible. These arrows are known as “sharrows” a term that combines share and arrows.

Class IV Bike Lanes – Class IV lanes are also called “Separated” or “protected” bike lanes. They offer real protection for cyclists, much more than normal bike lanes. The lanes block off contact with vehicles with painted, buffered space and/or physical barriers.

In California Class IV cement barriers, planter boxes, parking spaces, and plastic pylons/bollards. North Reseda Boulevard is one place where you’ll find Class IV bike lanes.

California Bicycle Laws

California has passed many vehicle codes to protect cyclists of all ages across the state. Those codes apply to local roads too. The City of L.A. also adds some guidelines for riders and drivers in our city (see below).

The most important state law is the one that offers the most protection to riders who ride in the street with traffic. It’s the California Vehicle Code that grants riders the same access to the road as any driver.

CVC 21200  Cyclists’ Right to the Road

“(a) (1) A person riding a bicycle or operating a pedicab upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all the provisions applicable to the driver of a vehicle…”

CVC 21202 Use of Bike Lanes

Cyclists have a right to the full lane, but only if they can keep up with traffic. When they can’t, people on bikes are required to utilize a bike lane if available. If there is no bike lane, they should remain on the far right-hand side of the right lane.

AB 1909 Motorist Must Pass in Left Lanes

Passed in California in 2022, this new law offers additional protections to bicyclists who must travel alongside vehicles. It requires L.A. motorists to switch to the left lane if possible when trying to pass a cyclist. You can find more information about the law change here.

CVC 21760 Three Feet for Rider Safety

When the left lane isn’t open, drivers must observe California’s “Three Feet for Safety” Law. It requires motorists to allow at least three feet of space when passing. If there isn’t at least 3 feet of space to be had, motorists shouldn’t try to pass.

The cyclist also gets the right of way when the driver is ready to make a right turn. The driver must yield to any cyclist traveling beside them and in the right lane before turning.

CVC 21212 California’s Bicycle Helmet Law. Riders under 18 years old must wear an approved safety helmet. Adult riders don’t have to wear a helmet, but it’s an incredible safety precaution that all cyclists should consider. More on California’s Bicycle Helmet Laws.

Does Los Angeles Have Its Own Bicycling Laws?

Some Los Angeles bicycle statutes go beyond the rules California sets forth. One important topic covered is cyclists riding on sidewalks. Generally, Los Angeles allows sidewalk riding as long as riders observe the safety of pedestrians.

The Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) also goes over some specific places where biking and skateboarding on sidewalks are not allowed:

SEC. 56.15. BICYCLE RIDING – SIDEWALKS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 148,990, Eff. 12/17/76.)

  1. 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.)
  2. No person shall ride, operate, or use a bicycle or unicycle on Ocean Front Walk between Marine Street and Via Marina within the City of Los Angeles, except that bicycle or unicycle riding shall be permitted along the bicycle path adjacent to Ocean Front Walk between Marine Street and Washington Boulevard. (Amended by Ord. No. 153,474, Eff. 4/12/80.)
  3. No person shall operate on a beach bicycle path, or on an area of a beach which is set aside for bicycle or unicycle use, any bicycle or tricycle which provides for side-by-side seating thereon or which has affixed thereto any attachment or appendage which protrudes from the side of the bicycle or tricycle and is used or designed to carry another person or persons thereon.”

Los Angeles also strengthened its anti-harassment laws to protect bicyclists. The city council stated that riding on city streets presents hazards for local cyclists and deliberate harassment from drivers and others would only increase those dangers.

The stiff laws cover anyone who would physically assault a rider or make threats against a cyclist simply because they are on a bicycle. This is the legal language that protects riders:

SEC. 45.96.02. “PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES. A person shall not do or attempt to do any of the following: A. Physically assault or attempt to physically assault a Bicyclist because of, in whole or in part, the Bicyclist’s status as a Bicyclist. B. Threaten to physically injure a Bicyclist because of, in whole or in part, the Bicyclist’s status as a Bicyclist. C. Intentionally injure, attempt to injure, or threaten to physically injure, either by words, vehicle, or other object, a Bicyclist because of, in whole or in part, the Bicyclist’s status as a Bicyclist. D. Intentionally distract or attempt to distract a Bicyclist because of, in whole or in part, the Bicyclist’s status as a Bicyclist. E. Intentionally force or attempt to force a Bicyclist off a street for purposes unrelated to public safety.”

Los Angeles Vision Zero Campaign

The City of Los Angeles began its Vision Zero campaign in 2015 with a set goal of 2025. It was a 10-year strategy to reduce traffic deaths and serious injuries to zero each year. LA’s Vision Zero, funded in part by the U.S. DOT brought together transportation officials, police, cycling advocates, and pedestrian advocates to come up with a plan of attack to make Los Angeles routes safer for everyone.

Upgrades to intersections and the addition of bike lanes have made a difference in local traffic infrastructure. Unfortunately, the end date for the plan has been reached and in some cases, conditions have gotten worse. The LAist reports a 70% increase in fatalities in recent years when compared to when the program got underway.

The results haven’t been as hoped, but Los Angeles is continuing the effort. They hope that making as many changes and improvements will finally result in improved safety on local streets.

Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Dangers

Los Angeles is an imperfect paradise for cyclists who enjoy the scenery and the amazing weather Southern California offers. There are rarely any rainy days to spoil a ride.

L.A. has the qualities to be a cycling haven, but notorious Los Angeles traffic issues can override those benefits and turn city streets into a nightmare for riders.

Recently, The Guardian reported that in 2019 Los Angeles County recorded at least 36 cycling deaths. Those tragic deaths accounted for around a third of all bicycle-involved fatalities in all of California for the year.

The year before, Bicycling Magazine deemed Los Angeles the “worse bike city in America.” They pointed out how distracted drivers put anyone on a bike in the crosshairs for an accident. They also noted how the city spends its time paying out injury lawsuits instead of adding safe lanes to ride in and improving road conditions.

What To Do After Getting Hit on a Bike in Los Angeles

Bike accident victims can first take a hit from a vehicle and then absorb a powerful impact with the pavement. They may suffer a serious injury and, understandably, be in shock.

But if you are strong enough after a collision or someone with you can help, it’s important to get your accident documented and visually recorded. This evidence gets included with your injury claim filed against an at-fault driver’s insurance provider. It prevents insurance adjusters from relying on making up their own account of who was at fault.

Focus on collecting this evidence if possible:

  • Call 911 and get an LAPD response. Give a full account to dispatchers and police. Let an ambulance crew check you out completely. Go to the hospital if you need to.
  • Take photos. Document the scene. Show vehicle and bike damage, and damage to your clothing. Get pictures of any visible injuries. Show bike lane markings and traffic signs that were ignored by the driver.
  • Jot down the addresses of businesses or homes nearby that might have security cameras that recorded your accident.
  • Find out what witnesses saw and find out how your Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer can contact them later.
  • Exchange information with at-fault drivers but don’t make any statements about the accident to them. Insurance companies can use these statements against you later. If a driver is working for a trucking company, a delivery company, or rideshare try to get an employee number.
  • See your own doctor in the days to come. Note any pain you didn’t feel on the scene but then noticed the next day. Get everything documented. See specialists if you are advised to.
  • Keep your damaged bike. Don’t throw evidence out.

What Can I Earn Compensation for After a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident?

Once your evidence has been turned over to your L.A. Bicycle Accident Attorney, your lawyer will also conduct a full investigation into what happened and the driver responsible.

Once your lawyer has constructed a strong case for you, you’ll then file an injury claim with the insurance company seeking a fair settlement check. This claim must include a list of every bill and non-economic damage you’ve suffered during recovery. Anything that gets left off could end up as a cost you must cover out of your own pocket.

These and other hardships will contribute to the amount you see in a Los Angeles bicycle accident injury settlement:

  • Costs of medical bills now and those expected in the future.
  • Estimates for care over a lifetime for permanent disfigurement or permanent disability.
  • Pain and suffering. This includes the non-economic damage you endure emotionally in the accident and during recovery. You may suffer from anxiety after a major collision. Depression may arise in recovery as you experience a loss of enjoyment of life. Being off your bike for an extended time can contribute greatly to emotional trauma.
  • Past and future lost earnings.
  • Repairs to bicycle or replacement.
Best California Personal Injury Lawyer Review

Hit-And-Run Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles

On top of every other traffic problem across Los Angeles County, hit-and-run drivers continue to plague accident victims. They can leave a bicyclist on the ground in pain and decide to flee the scene to avoid all responsibility for their actions.

Fortunately, an injury victim has several options to receive help even if the driver responsible is never tracked down. Bicyclists may have their own auto insurance and could request support from their uninsured motorist coverage. Victims could also enjoy coverage on a close family member’s policy and receive help.

If a hit-and-run suspect is located and arrested, the cyclist can file a claim for damages against the driver’s car insurance provider almost immediately. This is a civil claim and it proceeds separately from any criminal trial the suspect may face.

Wrongful Death Bicycle Accidents in Los Angeles

In the worst cases, cyclists can lose their lives while doing something they enjoy so much. Families will be devastated by the loss of a loved one and will struggle to cope with such a tragedy.

Under such heartbreaking circumstances, families are, unfortunately, forced to protect themselves financially in the aftermath of a terrible accident. Close relatives can risk bankruptcy as emergency service and ambulance bills arrive in the mail. The costs of any hospital care accumulated before the deceased passed on can also come due. The expenses of a funeral and a burial also add up quickly.

A spouse, children of the victim, and in some cases the parents of the victim can file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the entire family. This wrongful death claim can stabilize the family as they inch closer to bankruptcy under such financial strain. A wrongful death lawsuit also seeks to protect the family from harm in the future when they’ll be without the guidance and financial support a loved one would have provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I throw out the clothes I was wearing in a Los Angeles bicycle accident?

No. Preserve damaged clothing. Don’t wash bloody clothing. Save the shoes and socks you were wearing on your bike and don’t wear them again until your lawyer says it’s okay. Always keep your damaged bike.

How long do I have to take action after a Los Angeles cycling accident?

Two years. Los Angeles bicycle accident victims must file an injury claim within two years of the event. If they wait beyond this point, they will likely have the case rejected. Make sure you talk to a lawyer as soon after a crash as possible.

Can I receive compensation for a Los Angeles bicycle accident if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes. A judge may find that helmet use may have reduced your injuries and assign you partial blame for an injury. But the driver involved will likely face a higher percentage of liability and you could receive a proportionate amount of support.

Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer In Los Angeles

After a bicycle accident, please rely on an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney to handle your case and protect your interests. Insurance companies aren’t required to tell you about every benefit available to you. When you aren’t informed of your rights you can lose out on valuable resources and end up paying for some of your recovery costs out-of-pocket.

That should never be the case when you are put through such a traumatic accident through no fault of your own. Take advantage of a free case consultation that comes with no obligation to you or your family. 

Maison Law is a strong advocate for safe rides for all cyclists. We are also proud sponsors of the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition. We strive to see injured cyclists get the support they need to recover and return to their bikes.

Maison Law Firm