Friday, July 22, 2011

Los Angeles City Council Grants Protection to Cyclists

Cyclists in Los Angeles will have less problems and worries now that the City Council has granted more protection to them.

According to reports, the LA City Council approved an ordinance on Thursday that grants protection to cyclists against harm and harassment on the road. The riders are permitted to file lawsuits against anyone who assaults them.

The ordinance entitles cyclists to receive a minimum of $1,000 or three times the amount of losses as damages. It also allows riders to seek payment for attorney fees, reports said.

The Council's decision was in response to the recent catastrophic bicycle crashes in Los Angeles, including the accident involving Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

The new city ordinance seeks to alert vehicle drivers on the importance of giving way to cyclists in order to prevent accidents. It also warns motorists on the possibility of getting sued for misconduct toward cyclists.

This new traffic regulation can give more freedom to bicyclists who are fond of traveling across crowded LA streets. It also gives them additional rights when seeking damages for losses caused by the negligent act of another motorist.

Perhaps providing bicycle lanes to LA residents is not enough for Mayor Villaraigosa. He is determined to teach negligent drivers the legal consequences of hitting riders.

For more information on bicycle accidents, you may consult with a personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles. Your attorney will help you prove the level of fault of the other party and recover compensation for your medical expenses and losses. Dial our toll free number at 1-866-772-2889 or email us at info@mesriani.com for a free case analysis.