Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation in Queens, New York, and the surrounding areas.
Unfortunately, bicycle accidents can be serious and lead to significant injuries or even death. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, having a Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyer on your side is essential.
The right legal representation can help you navigate the legal complexities of your case and work to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, medical bills, and other damages resulting from the accident. Bicycle accident cases can be challenging, and it is crucial to have an experienced attorney who understands the laws, regulations, and procedures involved.
The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III is a respected law firm in Queens, New York, focusing on personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents. The firm is committed to providing personalized, compassionate service to clients while aggressively pursuing their legal rights and maximizing compensation.
Call us today at 516-221-7900 or contact us online using our free and secure submission form. We are available 24/7 to assist you and offer FREE initial consultations.
The attorneys at The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III have a track record of success in bicycle accident cases, including securing favorable settlements and client verdicts. They are dedicated to staying up-to-date with changes in the law and technological advancements to provide clients with the best possible legal representation.
Understanding New York Bicycle Accident Laws
New York City is home to more than 1,500 miles of bike lanes and thousands of cyclists who ride daily. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents in the city are common, with nearly 4,000 accidents reported in 2019.
Cyclists need to understand the laws and regulations related to bicycle accidents in New York to ensure they are protected in case of an accident.
Some of the most important laws to know and follow include the following:
Bicycle Laws in New York
Under New York law, bicycles are considered vehicles and must follow the same road rules as cars and trucks. This means that cyclists must stop at stop signs and red lights, signal turns and ride with traffic flow. Cyclists are also required to wear helmets if they are under 14. Failure to follow these laws can result in a citation and fines.
No-Fault Insurance Law
New York is a no-fault insurance state, which means that in the event of an accident, each party’s insurance company is responsible for paying for their respective damages. However, in cases where a cyclist’s injuries are severe or permanent, they may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
Comparative Negligence Law
New York follows a comparative negligence law, which means that if a cyclist is found to be partially at fault for an accident, their compensation may be reduced proportionately. For example, if a cyclist is found to be 30% at fault for an accident, their compensation would be reduced by 30%.
Statute of Limitations
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a bicycle accident is three years from the accident date. It is important to file a claim within this time frame, as failure to do so can result in the claim being dismissed.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. Cyclists need to understand the common causes of bicycle accidents to take steps to prevent them.
Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include the following:
Driver Inattention
One of the most common causes of bicycle accidents is driver inattention. Drivers may not see cyclists on the road, especially in busy areas or at night. Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone while driving, can also lead to accidents.
Failure to Yield
Another common cause of bicycle accidents is drivers failing to yield to cyclists. Drivers may fail to yield to cyclists when turning or entering a bicycle lane. This can lead to serious accidents, as cyclists may be hit or forced off the road.
Dooring
Dooring occurs when a driver opens their car door into the path of a cyclist. This can happen when a driver is parked on the side of the road or when a passenger exits the vehicle. Dooring can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
Poor Road Conditions
Poor road conditions can also lead to bicycle accidents. Potholes, debris on the road, and uneven surfaces can cause cyclists to lose control of their bike and crash.
Why You Need a Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are common in Queens, New York, and can result in serious injuries or even death. Legal representation is crucial if you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident.
The legal complexities of these cases can be overwhelming, and an experienced attorney can help you navigate the process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Legal Complexities of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accident cases can be complex and involve multiple factors, such as the driver’s actions, the road’s condition, and the weather conditions at the time of the accident. An experienced Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyer will understand the legal complexities involved in these types of cases and be able to investigate the accident to determine liability thoroughly.
Potential for Serious Injury or Death
Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries or even death. Due to the lack of protection afforded by a bicycle, riders are often at a disadvantage in motor vehicle accidents. Common injuries in bicycle accidents include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries.
Types of Damages in Bicycle Accident Cases
When a person is involved in a bicycle accident, they may be entitled to compensation for the damages they suffered. In a bicycle accident case, two main types of damages can be pursued: economic and non-economic damages. It is important to understand these types of damages when seeking legal action.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are damages that can be quantified, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. In a bicycle accident case, economic damages may include:
- Medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgery, and physical therapy
- Lost wages, including past and future earnings
- Property damage to the bicycle or other personal property
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In a bicycle accident case, non-economic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering, including physical pain and emotional distress
- Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of enjoyment of life, including the inability to participate in once enjoyable activities
If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, it is important to understand the types of damages you may be entitled to.
How The Law Firm of Joseph J. Perrini, III, Can Help with Your Case
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Queens, it is essential to have an experienced attorney on your side who can help you navigate the legal complexities of your case and work to maximize your compensation.
Some of the ways that we can help with your bicycle accident case include the following:
Investigation
We will thoroughly investigate your case to determine liability. This may include reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and gathering evidence such as photographs or surveillance footage.
Negotiation
After establishing liability, a Queen’s Bicycle Accident Lawyer can help negotiate a settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The attorney will work to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Litigation
A Queen’s Bicycle Accident Lawyer can take your case to court if a settlement cannot be reached. The attorney will represent you in court and work to achieve a favorable verdict that maximizes your compensation.
Maximizing Compensation
We will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your damages. The attorney will consider all of your economic and non-economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Contingency Fee Arrangement
At The Law Firm of Joseph J. Perrini, III, we understand that the cost of legal representation can concern accident victims. That is why we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case.
Contact Our Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyer for Assistance
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Queens, it is important to contact a Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyer who can help you navigate the legal complexities of your case and work to maximize your compensation.
At The Law Firm of Joseph J. Perrini, III, we are dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate service to our clients while aggressively pursuing their legal rights. Contact us for a free consultation today.
Call us today at 516-221-7900 or contact us online using our free and secure submission form. We are available 24/7 to assist you and offer FREE initial consultations.
