Bicycle riding is a fun and healthy activity that many children in Buffalo, NY, enjoy. It’s an exciting way for kids to explore their neighborhoods, stay active, and have fun with friends. However, as much joy as biking brings, it can also come with risks, especially when children are riding near busy streets or in areas with heavy traffic. Bicycle accidents involving children are unfortunately common and can lead to serious injuries. When a child is hurt in a bike accident, it’s important to understand the legal considerations that come into play. Parents and guardians need to know how to protect their children’s rights and ensure that the proper steps are taken to secure their well-being.
In Buffalo, NY, laws are in place to protect children who are injured in bicycle accidents. These laws help guide families through the process of getting medical care, holding responsible parties accountable, and seeking compensation for damages. In the event of a bicycle accident, knowing what to do and what legal options are available can make a big difference in the recovery process for both the child and their family. At, Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Robert Friedman
Michael Ranzenhofer
Sam Alba
Justin Friedman
John Dracup
Understanding Bicycle Accident Risks for Children
Children face unique risks when riding bicycles. They may not fully understand the rules of the road or how to navigate traffic safely. This can make them more vulnerable to accidents involving cars or other vehicles. A child may dart out into the street without looking, fail to signal turns, or lose control of their bike, leading to collisions. Drivers might not always be paying close attention to their surroundings or may fail to yield to children on bicycles, increasing the risk of accidents.
In Buffalo, the weather can also contribute to these risks. Rain, snow, and icy roads can make riding more dangerous for children, and they may not always be aware of how these conditions can affect their ability to stop or control their bikes. Additionally, poorly maintained roads, potholes, and obstacles can pose hazards that may cause children to fall or crash.
Injuries from bicycle accidents can range from minor scrapes and bruises to severe head injuries, broken bones, and even long-term disabilities. It’s critical for parents and caregivers to understand that when their child is involved in a bicycle accident, they have legal rights and may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Who Is Responsible for a Bicycle Accident Involving a Child?
When a child is involved in a bicycle accident, determining who is at fault is a key part of the legal process. In some cases, the driver of a car may be responsible if they failed to follow traffic laws or were not paying attention while driving. For example, if a driver runs a red light or does not yield to a child in a crosswalk, they may be held liable for the accident.
However, there are other situations where responsibility may fall on another party. For instance, if the accident was caused by a poorly maintained road, the city or municipality responsible for the upkeep of the street may be held accountable. Additionally, if a bicycle is found to have a manufacturing defect that contributed to the accident, the bike’s manufacturer could be liable.
It is also important to consider that New York operates under a “comparative negligence” system. This means that even if the child is partially at fault for the accident, they may still be able to recover damages. For example, if a child failed to obey a traffic signal but the driver of a car was speeding, the driver could still be held partially responsible for the accident.
Legal Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident involving a child in Buffalo, it is important to take immediate steps to protect their rights and ensure they receive the care they need. The first and most important action is to seek medical attention for the child, even if the injuries do not appear to be severe. Some injuries, such as head trauma or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away but can be serious if left untreated.
Once the child’s medical needs have been addressed, parents or guardians should report the accident to the authorities. This helps create an official record of the incident, which can be important if legal action is necessary later. Police reports can provide valuable details about the accident, including witness statements, descriptions of the scene, and any citations that may have been issued.
It is also helpful to gather as much information as possible at the scene of the accident. This includes taking photos of the area, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries the child sustained. If there were witnesses to the accident, obtaining their contact information can be helpful in case their testimony is needed.
In the days following the accident, families should keep records of medical bills, doctor visits, and any other expenses related to the child’s recovery. These records will be important if the family decides to pursue a claim for compensation.
Filing a Claim for a Bicycle Accident Involving a Child
If a child is injured in a bicycle accident, the family may be entitled to file a claim to recover compensation for their injuries. In New York, families typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, if the accident involves a claim against a government entity, such as a claim for a poorly maintained road, the time frame may be shorter.
To file a claim, it is necessary to prove that another party was negligent and that their negligence directly caused the child’s injuries. This can be done by providing evidence such as medical records, photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and testimony. The goal of the claim is to seek compensation for the child’s medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any long-term impacts of the injuries.
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In some cases, the family may also be able to recover compensation for future medical costs if the child’s injuries will require ongoing treatment or therapy. Additionally, if the accident has caused the child to miss school or affected their ability to participate in activities they once enjoyed, these factors may also be considered in determining compensation.
The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney in Bicycle Accident Cases
Navigating the legal process after a bicycle accident involving a child can be complicated, especially when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and the emotional stress of caring for an injured child. A personal injury attorney can play an important role in helping families through this process. An attorney can assist in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing the family’s interests in court if necessary.
An experienced attorney will understand the unique challenges that come with cases involving children and will work to ensure that the child’s best interests are protected. By taking on the legal aspects of the case, an attorney can help alleviate some of the stress that parents may be feeling and allow them to focus on their child’s recovery.
In cases where the child’s injuries are severe or long-lasting, an attorney can also help ensure that the family receives fair compensation for future medical expenses, therapy, and other long-term needs. Additionally, an attorney can provide guidance on how to navigate New York’s legal system and explain the options available to the family.
If your child has been injured in a bicycle accident in Buffalo, NY, it is important to take action to protect their rights and ensure they receive the care and compensation they deserve. At Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC, we understand how devastating it can be when a child is hurt in an accident, and we are here to help you through this difficult time. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and knowledgeable legal support to families dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident.
We are committed to helping you hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the compensation your child needs for their recovery. Whether you are facing medical bills, pain and suffering, or long-term impacts from the accident, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Contact Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you seek justice for your child.