The number of Laguna Beach bicycle crashes has increased significantly this year.

There were seven reported crashes involving bicyclists and motor vehicles, from January 1 through May 19. All of the accidents this year took place during daylight hours. The earliest took place at 9:36t a.m., and the latest occurred at 6:45 p.m. In 2012, there were eight reported bicycle-vehicle crashes. These crashes did not take place until November 4.

Bicycle-vehicle crashes make up only 2% of the city’s total reported crashes. Other crashes are car-car, car-pedestrian, and car-wall. Although bicycle-vehicle crashes make a small percentage of crashes, bike-related crashes often result in serious injuries for the bicyclist. Four of these crashes took place after March 23. All of the bicyclists in these crashes were injured. Two of the bicyclists had to be hospitalized. One of the cyclists suffered from a broken collar.

According to Chris Prelitz, the chairman of the city’s Complete Streets Task Force, Laguna Beach’s stretch of Coast Highway is very dangerous for bicyclists. The street lacks signage for cyclists. In addition to Coast Highway, there are other dangerous streets for cyclists. Two of the accidents, from this year, occurred on Coast Highway. Another two took place on Temple Hills Drive.

Bike safety is incredibly important. Bicyclists should never assume that drivers can see them.  Motorists are often distracted. The driver may be looking at other cars or even texting. Bicyclists should keep a safe distance from drivers. It is also important to review safety rules of the road.

Bicyclists need to follow the rules of the road too. Bicyclists need to be especially careful while making turns. Intersections are the most common locations of car and bike collisions. Drivers may try to turn right and collide into an unseen bicyclist. Be especially careful of parked cars. A parked car may seem harmless, but a car occupant could unexpectedly open a car door. It is best to keep a safe distance from any vehicles.

Motorists also need to be aware and careful of bicyclists. Don’t think of bicyclists as in your way. It is also important to remember how vulnerable bicyclists are. In the case of a collision, the motorists will probably not sustain any injuries. The bicyclists, on the other hand, may sustain very serious injuries. Lastly, pay attention to the road. This will prevent many accidents.

If you are ever in a car accident, do not hesitate to contact a Laguna Beach car accident lawyer.