(Hermosa Beach, CA) A man riding an e-bike was seriously injured Monday night, January 12, in a Pacific Coast Highway accident.
The Hermosa Beach Police Department said the crash occurred around 7 p.m. in the 1800 block of Pacific Coast Highway. Officers responded to reports of a traffic collision and arrived to find a man in his 50s suffering from serious injuries. Paramedics transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where he remained in serious condition. Police did not release the man’s name or additional identifying details.
While investigating the incident, officers determined that the driver involved had been traveling along PCH when traffic ahead came to a stop. Police said the driver swerved into the center lane in an attempt to avoid colliding with stopped vehicles. During that maneuver, the vehicle struck the man riding an electric bicycle.
The driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with the investigation, police said. Authorities did not indicate that impairment played a role leading to the collision. Authorities closed the Pacific Coast Highway for several hours Monday night.
Overview on the Pacific Coast Highway Accident
When a serious collision involves an e-bike on a major coastal roadway, investigators review traffic safety laws. These reviews often focus on driver reaction, lane movement, and the shared use of roadways by vehicles and cyclists.
Because the crash involved a sudden lane change, investigators may examine the Unsafe Turning Law. This law requires drivers to ensure a lane change or maneuver can be made with reasonable safety before proceeding. Swerving to avoid stopped traffic can create new hazards, especially when cyclists or e-bike riders are nearby.
Authorities may also review the Bicyclist Safety Law. This law grants cyclists and e-bike riders the same rights and responsibilities as cars. This means drivers should remain alert and share the road safely.
If speed or reaction time is questioned, investigators could consider the Basic Speed Law. This law requires motorists to travel at speeds reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. Congestion and sudden stops can make compliance especially important, and these considerations help officials evaluate what may have led to the Pacific Coast Highway accident as the investigation continues.
Guidance for the Family
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an e-bike crash, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and obtain the official police report when it becomes available.
You may also consider speaking with a legal professional experienced in bicycle and e-bike injury cases to better understand your options. Prioritizing medical follow-up, rehabilitation planning, and emotional support can be an important part of navigating a difficult recovery.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
