Safety Tips

Don’t Be Duped By Myths Related to Bicycle Accidents

If you have been struck and injured by a car while riding your bike, you may be eligible for compensation from the driver’s insurance. Since California is a tort state, the amount of compensation you are due is related to who was at fault. With that in mind, don’t fall for these myths regarding bicycle accidents.

• Myth: Bicycle accidents are usually the cyclist’s fault – This is not necessarily true. Each accident has its own facts, and many car accidents involving bicycles are related to driver distraction rather than an indiscretion on the part of the cyclist.
• Myth: If you are partially to blame, you get nothing – In California, fault can be apportioned to each driver or cyclist in the accident. A percentage is assigned to determine who should be held accountable. So even if you bear some of the fault for the accident, you should still receive compensation for a percentage of your losses.
• Myth: Bicycles belong on the sidewalk – Not only is this not true, but it is also dangerous to ride on the sidewalk. You would be at fault if you were to injure a pedestrian. When there is no bicycle lane, you should be riding on the street and following normal traffic laws.

San Diego’s Bicycle Accident Attorneys

Petrov Law Firm has the experienced personal injury attorneys to assist you after a bicycle accident injury. Get in touch today by giving us a call at 619.344.0360, and find out how we can help you to maximize your settlement.

4 Dangerous Practices Drivers Need to Avoid

You don’t want to be the one at fault if you are ever in a car accident in California. This is a tort state, meaning that the at-fault driver is on the hook for the damages. Here are some common practices that could cause a judge to view you as the party at blame for the accident.

• Speeding – This is the underlying cause of most accidents, especially ones that are fatal or do a lot of damage. Be sure to obey speed limit laws, and don’t be afraid to drive slower if road conditions are not good.
• Distracted driving – From smartphone use to putting on makeup to dashboard dining, there is no limit to the things that could distract you behind the wheel. A good rule of thumb is that when you are the driver, all you should be doing is driving.
• Tailgating – Be sure to leave a car length between you and the vehicle in front of you for every 10 miles per hour you are driving. Remember that big trucks and motorcycles can’t stop as fast as cars.
• Road rage – No matter what another driver does that upsets you, don’t get aggressive. Not only can this lead to an accident, but it could also cause the other driver to become more aggressive with you.

When You Experience an Injury Due to a Dangerous Driver

Petrov Law Firm is here to help car accident victims in the state of California. Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys today by calling 619.344.0360.

5 Tips to Help You Cycle Safely in California

Do you love to ride your bicycle in the beautiful southern California weather? It is essential to know how to share the road with drivers in order to protect yourself. Here are some tips for safe cycling based on existing state laws in California.

1. Stay to the right – Unless you are making a left-hand turn, are traveling at the same speed as traffic, or are passing another cyclist, you should stay as far to the right side of the road as possible.
2. Use the bike lane – You should always signal, by hand or with lights if you have them, when leaving the bike lane.
3. Wear your helmet – It’s the law if you are under 18, but it is a necessary safety precaution for everyone.
4. Stop for pedestrians – This is especially true when it comes to crosswalks. Remember that bicycles basically have to follow the same traffic laws as anyone driving a car.
5. Use sufficient lighting – This is especially true at night. Know the state requirements, but don’t be afraid to go above and beyond. The more visible you are to drivers, the better.

Getting Help if You Have Been Injured in a Cycling Accident

If you have been injured by a driver in southern California, the personal injury attorneys at Petrov Law Firm can help. We are experienced at helping cyclists to receive the settlement they deserve from an insurance company following an accident that leads to injury. Call us today at 619.344.0360 to get your case started right away.

The Most Important Motorcycle Safety Tips You Will Ever Read

Every year, motorcyclists lose their lives on California roads, and many more are injured. To protect yourself, please follow these vital safety recommendations.

• Never get on your bike under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Focus on visibility – Many motorcycle accidents involve vehicle drivers who claim to have not seen the cyclist. Use your lights, wear something reflective, and use extreme caution when lane splitting.
• Know your limits – Even the most experienced motorcyclist can be involved in an accident. The odds increase exponentially when a rider is doing something beyond their ability level. Follow the laws of the road (especially the speed limit), and never attempt to perform tricks at high speeds or in traffic.
• Wear the right gear – If you are involved in an accident, a helmet can save your life. Make sure you are wearing long sleeves and pants. Use fabrics that can protect you from the road if you are knocked from the bike at high speeds.
• Don’t trust drivers – Always assume that they are too distracted to see you. The fact of the matter is that when a motorcycle gets into an accident with a car or another vehicle – regardless of who was at fault – the person on the motorcycle is going to be on the losing end of the crash.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident Injury

The most important thing is to get the medical assistance you require. Next, call Petrov Law Firm at 619.344.0360. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you to maximize the settlement you receive so that you can pay those expensive medical bills and receive other compensation that you are due.

5 Common Reasons for Pedestrian Accidents

When a pedestrian is knocked down by a moving vehicle, the results can be quite serious. What are some of the contributing factors to this type of accident? Here are five of the most common reasons that a pedestrian is involved in an accident with a motor vehicle.

• Reduced visibility – Dawn, dusk, night, rain, or any other conditions that reduce visibility can make it more difficult for a driver to see a pedestrian.
• Driving distracted – Between phones and the many other distractions that are available to drivers, you are probably not surprised to see this on the list.
• Poor infrastructure – A lack of crosswalks, pedestrian lights, and other safety features may lead to more accidents and injuries. In general, poorly laid out roadways can lead to more danger for walkers.
• Drug and alcohol abuse – Drivers who are under the influence are far more likely to strike a pedestrian with their vehicle. A DUI is a common occurrence when a pedestrian accident occurs.
• Quieter vehicles – Hybrid and electric vehicles make far less noise. As a result, a pedestrian who is not constantly aware of their surroundings may step in front of a car without noticing it.

If You Have Been Injured in a Pedestrian Accident in California

The personal injury attorneys at Petrov Law Firm in San Diego have the experience you want in your corner when trying to reach a settlement in a pedestrian accident case. Don’t expect an insurance company to give you a fair shake, no matter how nice they may seem on the phone. Call 619.344.0360 today to get the assistance you need.

Lane Splitting Safety Tips from the California Highway Patrol

In 2017, California state law began to allow for lane splitting by motorcycles. This means that a motorcyclist can ride between moving vehicles or stopped vehicles. It is a great way to beat traffic. However, it can also be dangerous if you don’t take the proper safety precautions. Here are a few tips that were provided on the California Highway Patrol website.

• Consider factors like weather conditions, the size of the vehicles you are passing, visibility, and the width of the lane before deciding to pass.
• The faster you drive and the greater the difference between your speed and that of other vehicles, the higher the risks become.
• Do not lane split between trailers, buses, RVs, or other oversized vehicles.
• Driving on the shoulder is not lane splitting. It is both illegal and dangerous.
• Wear reflective gear, even during the daytime, to be as visible as possible.
• The safest place to lane split is considered to be between the two lanes furthest to the left.

Remember that some drivers may be from other states where lane splitting is illegal. Therefore, some drivers may not be looking for or expect a motorcycle to be passing between them and another driver. Lane splitting does add increased danger, should only be attempted by experienced riders, and is at your own risk.

Personal Injury Attorneys in San Diego, California

If you have been injured while riding your motorcycle in California, Petrov Law Firm is here to help. Speak with our experienced personal injury attorneys today by calling 619.344.0360.

Shocking Bicycle Injury and Fatality Statistics in California

In the United States, an average of more than 700 people die in bicycle accidents each year. California makes up a disproportionate amount of those fatalities, averaging 144 per year. Those numbers tell a shocking tale, and we’re going to add some more statistics that reveal a concern in the state for cyclists.

• Over 11,000 cyclists were injured in California in 2017.
• Los Angeles County is the deadliest for cyclists in California. San Diego County is third in the state.
• The same is true with non-fatal injuries, with Los Angeles County leading the way and San Diego third. Between the years of 2007 and 2013, more than 6,000 cyclists were injured in San Diego County alone.
• Statistics show that it becomes the most dangerous for cyclists after dark.
• Nationally, more cyclist fatalities occur in urban areas than rural areas. The largest amount of fatalities occur on major roads.
• Most fatalities occur in males over the age of 20. In fact, males 50 and over comprise the highest demographic for fatal cycling accidents in California.
• Many cyclist deaths involve alcohol. More fatalities involved cyclists under the influence than drivers under the influence.
• The largest percentage of cyclists who died in accidents were not wearing the proper protective equipment.

If You or a Loved One Has Been Injured in a Cycling Accident

Petrov Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorneys can help you to receive the compensation you are due if you have been injured or lost a loved one in a cycling accident in California. Call our San Diego office today at 619.344.0360 to get the assistance you require.

The Best Tips for ATV Safety

An all-terrain vehicle can be a great way to have some fun on the weekend, especially since you should always be on it alone anyway (if it is a single-rider ATV). That makes it great from of recreation when social distancing. However, a shocking number of accidents lead to injuries every year on ATVs. Here are the best prevention tips so you can enjoy your weekend without an incident.

• Use designated trails rather than taking off into the forest
• Ride at a safe speed
• Use an ATV that is right for your size – this is especially important for families when riding with youths
• Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and be careful with prescription medications that may make you drowsy or reduce your reaction speed
• Never take someone with you on an ATV built for one – they make two-seaters for a reason
• Don’t let kids ride without proper supervision
• Take a safe ATV riding course
• Follow the guidelines from the ATV manufacturer
• Always wear a helmet and other appropriate safety gear when riding – this may include a face shield, eye protection, sturdy shoes or boots, gloves, and long sleeves

If You Have Been Injured Riding an ATV…

Petrov Law Firm is the San Diego law office here to help when your personal injury case involves riding an ATV in California. Our lawyers are experienced, especially when it comes to dealing with insurance companies to maximize settlements. Give us a call today at 619.344.0360 to get your case started.

Staying Safe While Riding Your Bicycle During the Pandemic

San Diego is currently under stricter health orders due to the pandemic. What does this mean if you are a cyclist? First, here are a few of the regulations you should know:

• Stay home except for essential activities – Work (if your place of employment is still open) and exercise are valid reasons to leave the house. You can even ride your bike for essential errands like grocery shopping.
• Wear a face-covering – If you are going to get within 6 feet of anyone who doesn’t live in your house with you, a mask is required. Even if you are riding in a rural area outside the city, you need to have a mask with you in case you come across another person during your ride. When you leave your bike to go into a public building or store, the mask will be necessary.
• Practice social distancing – As mentioned, try to stay 6 feet away from anyone you don’t live with.

Besides these regulations, there are usual safety requirements and recommendations like wearing a helmet or other protective gear while riding your bike. Watch out for drivers who may not see you, especially if you are only using the minimally legal amount of lighting on your bike.

Bicycle Accident Injury Specialists in San Diego

At Petrov Law Firm, our personal injury attorneys specialize in a number of specific injury situations, including bicycle riding. If you have been in an accident and experienced an injury in the San Diego area, contact us today at 619.344.0360 to learn if you may be eligible for compensation.

Don’t Fall for These Myths Regarding Pedestrian Accidents and Injuries

When a pedestrian is involved in an accident and is injured because of a driver, the injuries may be very serious. Today, we will debunk a few myths regarding pedestrian injuries so that you don’t end up accepting a settlement that is too low.

• Myth 1: The vehicle has to make contact to get compensation. This one isn’t true at all. If you get hurt diving out of the way of a driver, you are not penalized for your quick reflexes. The driver is still on the hook for forcing you to dive and hurt yourself, and the insurance company should know this. Don’t let them cheat you.
• Myth 2: Only high-speed collisions cause serious injury. The driver is in a car, and you are not. The driver may not experience serious injuries at speeds of 5 mph, but you could have broken bones, a concussion, or other injuries. Be sure to get checked by a doctor, even if you can get up and walk away from the incident. Not all injuries are visible immediately.
• Myth 3: You can’t afford an attorney. It’s more like you can’t afford not to have one! A personal injury lawyer is the only one on your side when an accident like this occurs. The insurance company is going to want to pay out as little as possible, or nothing at all if they can get away with it.

Get the Help You Need as an Injured Pedestrian in Southern California

The personal injury attorneys at Petrov Law Firm in San Diego can help you to maximize your settlement. Let us help you get what you deserve from a greedy insurance company. Call 619.344.0360 and start your case now.