Recovering Damages After a Bicycle Accident with a Car in New York

Car-bicycle accidents are unfortunately common in New York, where bustling streets meet avid cyclists. These accidents often occur due to drivers not paying enough attention or not understanding cyclists’ rights on the road. If you’re a cyclist, knowing that New York traffic laws aim to protect you is vital. These laws state that motorists should respect cyclists’ space and yield to them when necessary, just like any other vehicle on the road.

But why do these accidents happen? Common causes include cars turning into a cyclist’s path, opening a car door without checking, or simply not keeping a safe distance. As a cyclist, you have the same rights to the road as cars and must be treated with equal respect. It’s not just about following the rules; it’s about mutual respect between drivers and cyclists.

New York’s traffic laws are clear: cyclists have the right of way in many situations, and drivers must be cautious. However, when these laws are ignored, accidents happen, often leading to serious injuries or worse. Understanding these laws can help you stay safe and know your rights if an accident occurs.

Legal Rights of Bicyclists in New York

Our streets must be safe for everyone, and that includes cyclists. New York law states that you have the right to share the road with cars. This means drivers must give you enough room and cannot drive or park in bike lanes. It’s important to know these rights so you can stay safe and defend yourself if needed.

Negligent Drivers and Bicycle Accidents

Motorists must use caution and avoid causing injuries to cyclists. If a car hit you and caused you injuries, you may be entitled to substantial damages.

Injuries and Compensation in Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents in New York can lead to serious injuries such as:

• broken bones
• head injuries
• amputation
• paralysis
• death

Sometimes, these injuries can change your life, affecting your work and daily activities. It’s crucial to understand that if you or your loved one gets hurt in a bicycle accident, you might be entitled to compensation. This can cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How Does Compensation Work After a Bicycle Accident?

In New York, if a driver’s mistake caused your accident, you might receive money to help with your recovery. Usually, the driver’s insurance should cover your costs. Generally, insurance companies can be difficult to deal with. They might try to pay less than you deserve or blame you for the accident.

Our attorneys can help you deal with insurance companies and make sure you get fair compensation. We understand the laws and can help prove how the accident happened and why you deserve help. It’s not just about the money; it’s about getting you the support you need to recover and move forward.

Navigating the Legal Process After a Bicycle Accident

If you’re in a bicycle accident, the first thing to do is take care of yourself. Seek medical help and make sure you’re okay. When you’ve secured your safety, it’s time to think about the legal side. It’s important to know what to do to protect your rights. Here are some important steps that are crucial to your case:

Report the accident to the police. A police report is a key piece of evidence. It acts as a record of what witnesses indicated happened, identifies the parties, records the location, date and time, and more.

Document everything. This means taking photos of the accident scene, your bike, the car, and any injuries you have. Also, get the contact information of anyone who saw the accident. These steps are crucial for building your case. They provide evidence that we can use to help you.

Understand New York’s comparative fault. This rule means that if you were partly at fault for the accident, it could affect your compensation. For example, if you were riding without lights at night, that might be considered partly your fault. But don’t worry, even if you’re partly at fault, you can still get some compensation. Our attorneys are skilled at navigating these complex rules and will work to ensure you get the fairest outcome.

Preventing Bicycle Accidents: Safety Tips and Legal Advice

Staying safe on New York’s streets is crucial for cyclists and motorists. As a cyclist, always wear a helmet, use bike lights at night, and signal your turns. Remember, being visible and predictable helps prevent accidents. For drivers, it’s important to check for cyclists before turning or opening a car door. And everyone should avoid distractions like texting while on the road.

But accidents can still happen, even if you’re careful. That’s why understanding your legal rights and responsibilities is so important. Knowing what to do can make a big difference if you’re involved in an accident. Our attorneys are here to offer advice and help you understand your options.

Being aware of the risks and knowing how to react can keep you safer and make New York’s roads better for everyone. Whether cycling or driving, let’s work together to prevent accidents and protect each other.

Contact the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. to Discuss Your Bicycle Accident Lawsuit

If you’ve been in a bicycle accident, you might feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to go through this alone. Contact the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. to discuss your case. We can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process. Our attorneys are experienced in handling bicycle accident cases in New York and are ready to support you.

Call us at (516) 294 5050 to speak with an attorney. We’ll listen to your story and offer clear, compassionate advice. If you prefer, you can also submit a form on our website to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions and help you decide the best course of action.