Have You Been Involved in a Bicycle Accident?

Bicycle accidents involving passenger or commercial vehicles have some of the highest odds for severe injuries. Cyclists don’t have the benefit of wrap-around airbags, a steel cage, or other safety measures like motorists. They usually have, at most, a helmet and pads to protect their knees, elbows, and hands. These safety measures are great for a nasty fall, but up against a 3,000-pound car? Forget about it.

The actions you take immediately after being hit by a motorist will impact how your entire personal injury claim will unfold. Taking the right steps can be the difference between receiving the settlement you deserve and walking away with barely enough to cover your ER visit. But how do you know which steps to take and which laws pertain to your accident?

The best way to navigate the aftermath of a bike crash is to call 516-604-5496 to speak with a personal injury attorney at The Rizzuto Law Firm.

What Rights Do Cyclists Have?

In New York, cyclists have many of the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. Under the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law, bicycles are considered vehicles, which means cyclists are legally entitled to use most roadways, obey traffic signals, and expect the same respect from other drivers.

Cyclists can:

  • Ride in the street, including on shared lanes
  • Use designated buckle lanes where available
  • Take the full lane when necessary for safety
  • Be protected from unsafe passing or dooring (being hit by a suddenly opening car door)

Drivers are required to exercise due care around cyclists, including yielding when turning and giving adequate space when passing. If a motorist violates these rules and causes an accident, they can be held liable for any injuries they cause.

If you are a cyclist who was injured by a driver’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. The first step to getting the settlement you are owed is speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney. Call 516-604-5496 to talk with an attorney at Rizzuto Law Firm. We are ready to pursue your claim and ensure your damages are covered.

What Should You Do After a Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident?

What you do immediately after a bicycle or pedestrian accident involving a motor vehicle will impact the outcome of any future settlements. To ensure your ability to seek maximum compensation after an accident, follow these steps.

  • Call 911 Immediately- Report the accident to ensure emergency medical help and a police report are created.
  • Seek Prompt Medical Attention- Even minor injuries can worsen; a medical record also supports your claim.
  • Document the Scene- Take photos of your injuries, vehicle damage, skid marks, street signs, and weather conditions.
  • Gather Information- Collect names, contact info, license plate numbers, and insurance details from all involved parties.
  • Get Witness Statements- If anyone saw what happened, get their name and a brief account of what they saw.
  • Avoid Admitting Fault- Stick to facts when speaking to police or drivers, don’t apologize or speculate.
  • Contact a Personal Injury Attorney- The sooner you involve a lawyer, the better your chances of protecting your rights and maximizing your claim.

Seeking immediate medical attention and speaking with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible are two steps you can take to improve your odds of getting the compensation you deserve. The sooner you start building your case, the better. The Rizzuto Law Firm is taking immediate personal injury cases. Call 516-604-5496 to schedule a free consultation with an attorney who actually cares.

What Can You Recover From a Bicycle Accident Personal Injury Claim?

When someone is injured due to someone else’s negligence, they may have the opportunity to seek financial compensation through a personal injury claim. In New York, your recovery can include both economic and non-economic damages, depending on the severity of your injuries and the facts of the case.

Most personal injury claims allow you to recover:

  • Medical Expenses- Hospital bills, rehabilitation, surgery, medications, and future treatment needs
  • Lost Wages- Time missed from work, reduced earning capacity, or permanent disability
  • Pain and Auffering- Physical pain, emotional distress, and long-term impacts on your quality of life
  • Property Damage- Costs to repair or replace your bike and any other personal items damaged in the accident
  • Out-of-Pocket Costs- Travel to medical appointments, home modifications, or other accident-related expenses

Winning a personal injury claim and recovering these damages is not an easy undertaking. It will require extensive preparation, investigations, and copious amounts of evidence that proves you are owed compensation. That takes time. In New York, you have three years from the time of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This number changes if your claim is against the government or involves a wrongful death claim.

That may seem like plenty of time, but the steps you and your attorney will have to follow to build a solid claim and prove you are owed damages are time-consuming. The sooner you call 516-604-5496 to speak with a personal injury attorney with Rizzuto Law Firm, the better your odds of receiving a fair settlement.

Why Do You Need a Personal Injury Attorney For a Bicycle Accident Claim?

While it may seem like it is you versus the driver when you are involved in an accident, it is often actually you versus an insurance company. Insurance companies use shady tactics to settle for less than your case is worth, or refuse to pay altogether.

Don’t take on their legal department alone. Speak with a Rizzuto Law Firm personal injury attorney today. Call 516-604-5496 for a free consultation today.