Proving fault is the foundation of any successful injury claim. After a crash, insurance companies will not simply accept your version of events — they require evidence. A skilled Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer knows that the strength of your case often depends on how quickly and thoroughly evidence is preserved.
Because cyclists are especially vulnerable on Los Angeles roads, proving liability clearly and convincingly can make the difference between a low settlement and full financial recovery.
Police Reports
A police report is often one of the first and most important pieces of evidence. When officers respond to the scene, they document:
- Statements from drivers and witnesses
- Road conditions
- Visible injuries
- Vehicle positions
- Traffic violations
If a driver was cited for speeding, failing to yield, or distracted driving, that citation can strongly support your claim. However, police reports are not always perfect. If details are inaccurate, additional evidence may be needed to clarify fault.
Photographs and Video Evidence
Visual evidence is powerful in bicycle accident cases. Photos taken at the scene can show:
- Vehicle damage
- Bicycle damage
- Skid marks
- Road debris
- Traffic signals or signage
- The location of impact
Video footage can be even more compelling. Sources may include:
- Traffic cameras
- Nearby business surveillance
- Residential security cameras
- Dashcams
- Helmet cameras
A knowledgeable Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer often acts quickly to preserve surveillance footage before it is overwritten.
Witness Statements
Independent witnesses can significantly strengthen your case. People who saw the crash may confirm that:
- The driver ran a red light
- The vehicle turned without signaling
- The driver was looking at a phone
- The cyclist had the right of way
Witness testimony often counters insurance company attempts to shift blame onto the cyclist.
Medical Records
Medical documentation helps prove that your injuries were caused by the accident. Emergency room records, imaging studies, specialist evaluations, and physical therapy notes establish the seriousness of your injuries.
Insurance companies frequently argue that injuries were preexisting or unrelated. Prompt medical treatment and consistent follow up care make it harder for insurers to dispute your claim.
Accident Reconstruction Reports
In complex bicycle crashes, accident reconstruction experts may analyze vehicle speeds, braking distances, impact angles, and roadway design.
These experts use physics and engineering principles to determine how the collision occurred. Reconstruction reports are especially useful when liability is disputed or when there are no neutral witnesses.
Driver Phone Records
If distracted driving is suspected, phone records can be critical. Texting, app usage, or calls made at the time of the crash can demonstrate negligence.
Obtaining these records often requires legal action, which is why early involvement of a Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer can be essential.
Traffic and Infrastructure Conditions
Sometimes fault is influenced by roadway design or maintenance. Evidence may include:
- Faded bike lane markings
- Broken traffic signals
- Obstructed signage
- Potholes or unsafe pavement
If a dangerous road condition contributed to the crash, a government entity may share responsibility. These claims involve strict deadlines and specific procedural requirements.
Vehicle Data and Event Recorders
Modern vehicles often contain event data recorders that capture speed, braking, and steering input just before a collision. This data can contradict a driver’s claim that they were traveling slowly or tried to stop in time.
Vehicle data is especially important when drivers deny fault.
Comparative Fault in California
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means even if a cyclist is partially at fault, they can still recover compensation — but their award will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Because insurers often attempt to blame cyclists, strong evidence is necessary to prevent unfair fault allocation.
Why Evidence Must Be Collected Quickly
Critical evidence can disappear within days. Surveillance footage may be deleted, skid marks fade, and witnesses become harder to locate.
Delays can weaken even strong cases. Early investigation allows your legal team to preserve evidence and build a clear liability narrative before insurance companies shape the story.
Why a Los Angeles Bicycle Accident Lawyer Is Essential for Proving Fault
Bicycle accident claims often involve aggressive insurance defenses and attempts to shift blame. A skilled Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer gathers evidence, consults experts, and challenges liability disputes to protect your right to full compensation.
At Bojat Law Group, we investigate bicycle crashes thoroughly and fight to hold negligent drivers accountable. Our team works to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering so you can focus on recovery.
If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles, call (818) 877-4878 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
