Did you know that riding a bicycle on a sidewalk in Santa Monica is prohibited under Santa Monica's Municipal Code? If you are injured in a bicycle accident while you are riding on a sidewalk, whoever you sue will use it against you that you were violating the law. The other side will argue that you were "comparatively negligent," i.e., that your violation of the law caused or contributed to the accident. The other side will seek a discount on what they owe you based on your comparative negligence.
The best way for Santa Monica bicycle riders to avoid getting hit by a vehicle is to follow the laws that applies to bicyclists in Santa Monica:
- Bicycle riders traveling on public roadways have the same rights and responsibilities as vehicle drivers. Bicycle riders are subject to the same California laws and ordinances.
- Santa Monica prohibits riding a bicycle on a public sidewalk. Municipal Code 3.12.540(a).
- Bicyclists must ride in the same direction as vehicle traffic. Riding against traffic is extremely dangerous; vehicle drivers are not looking for bicyclists riding the wrong way.
- Bicyclists must obey all traffic signs and signals.
- At night, bicycles riders must have a white light attached to their person that is visible from the front. Bicycles must have a red reflector in the rear and pedal reflectors. The bicycle must also be equipped with reflectors visible from the side.
- Bicyclists under age 18 must wear a helmet.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Santa Monica, speak with personal injury attorney Daniel McGee or Catherine Lerer. Bicyclists can suffer serious injuries if hit by a car, truck, bus, or other vehicle. We aggressively represent our bicycle accident clients and demand full compensation for their injuries. If you are in need of medical treatment, we can refer you to a doctor near you who will treat you on a lien basis, which means that the doctor will wait to be paid until your claim resolves. If your injuries prevent you from working and you are suffering economic hardship, we may be able to get you a cash advance.
There are no up-front costs, and no fee unless we win your case and collect money for you.