Bicycling is a great way to stay active and explore your surroundings, but it can also be dangerous, especially in busy urban areas. Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons, including distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you’re involved in a bicycle accident in New York State, it’s important to know what to do to protect yourself and your rights.
- Seek medical attention
The first thing you should do after a bicycle accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured, it’s important to get checked out by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, such as head injuries, may not show symptoms right away, and delaying treatment can lead to complications. If you’re seriously injured, call 911 or have someone else call for you.
- Call the police
You should also call the police after a bicycle accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. When the police arrive, make sure to provide them with your name and contact information, as well as the name and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. The police will create a report that includes the details of the accident, which can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or a lawsuit.
- Collect evidence
If possible, collect evidence at the scene of the accident. Take photos of your injuries, the damage to your bicycle, and any other vehicles involved in the accident. Get the contact information of the driver(s) involved, including their name, address, phone number, and insurance information. Also, collect the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
- Contact your insurance company
If you have bicycle insurance, contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. They can help you understand your coverage and guide you through the claims process. Even if you don’t have bicycle insurance, you should contact your auto insurance company if you have a policy that covers accidents involving non-motorized vehicles.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contact a personal injury lawyer who has experience representing clients in bicycle accident cases. They can help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Don’t admit fault
After a bicycle accident, it’s natural to want to apologize or admit fault, but it’s important to avoid doing so. Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident, don’t say anything that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. This could be used against you later on if you decide to file a claim or lawsuit.
- Keep track of your expenses
Keep track of all the expenses you incur as a result of the bicycle accident, including medical bills, transportation costs, and any other expenses related to your injuries. This information will be useful when you file a claim or lawsuit, as it will help you calculate the damages you’re entitled to.
- Be careful what you post on social media
Be careful what you post on social media after a bicycle accident. Insurance companies and defense attorneys may use your social media posts against you to dispute your claims of injury or to argue that you were at fault for the accident. It’s best to avoid posting anything related to the accident or your injuries on social media.
- Follow your doctor’s orders
If you’re injured in a bicycle accident, make sure to follow your doctor’s orders for treatment and recovery. Attend all medical appointments and follow through with any recommended physical therapy or rehabilitation. This will not only help you recover faster, but it will also provide evidence of your injuries and their impact on your life.
- Don’t delay taking action
If you’re considering filing a claim or lawsuit after a bicycle accident, don’t delay taking action. There are strict time limits for filing these types of cases, known as the statute of limitations. In New York State, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally three years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this time frame could result in your case being dismissed.
- Be prepared to negotiate
If you decide to file a claim or lawsuit after a bicycle accident, be prepared to negotiate with insurance companies or defense attorneys. They may try to offer you a low settlement amount to avoid going to court. However, it’s important to remember that you’re entitled to fair compensation for your injuries and damages. A personal injury lawyer can help you negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to trial if necessary.
- Stay patient
The legal process can be long and frustrating, but it’s important to stay patient and persevere. It may take months or even years to resolve your case, but by staying persistent and following through with the necessary steps, you can increase your chances of success. Lean on the support of friends and family, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re struggling emotionally or mentally.
- Learn from the experience
While a bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience, it can also be an opportunity to learn and grow. Take the time to reflect on what happened and what you can do to prevent it from happening again in the future. This may include taking a defensive cycling course, investing in better safety gear, or avoiding certain roads or intersections that are known to be dangerous.
Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC is a law firm that specializes in personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents, in New York State. If you’re involved in a bicycle accident in New York, our team of experienced attorneys can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
Here are some ways we can help if you’re involved in a bicycle accident in New York:
- Provide legal advice
The attorneys at Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC can provide you with legal advice and help you understand your rights and options after a bicycle accident. We can also help you determine whether you have a viable claim or lawsuit.
- Investigate the accident
Our team can conduct a thorough investigation into the bicycle accident to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine who may be at fault. This information can be crucial in building a strong case and securing the compensation you deserve.
- Handle communication with insurance companies
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether. The lawyers at Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC can handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf, negotiating a fair settlement or taking your case to trial if necessary.
- Calculate damages
Calculating damages in a bicycle accident case can be complex. Our attorneys can help you determine the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering, to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Represent you in court
If negotiations with insurance companies are unsuccessful, our attorneys can represent you in court to seek a favorable judgment or settlement. We have extensive trial experience and a proven track record of success in personal injury cases.
If you’re involved in a bicycle accident in New York State, it’s important to seek the help of a qualified personal injury lawyer. We can provide a range of services, including legal advice, investigation, negotiation, and representation in court, to protect your rights and seek fair compensation for your injuries and damages.