If you have been injured while riding a bike in New York, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Whether you were hit by a car, involved in a crash with another cyclist, or suffered an injury due to poorly maintained roads or sidewalks, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages.
What to Do After a Bike Accident
After a bike accident, the most important thing is to seek medical attention right away. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but could worsen over time if left untreated.
It’s also crucial to document the accident scene and gather evidence. This can include taking photos of the scene, getting contact information from any witnesses, and obtaining a copy of the police report.
Types of Compensation
If you have been injured in a bike accident in New York, you may be entitled to different types of compensation depending on the circumstances of your case. These may include:
- Medical expenses: This includes any medical bills related to your injuries, as well as future medical costs for ongoing treatment and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If you have had to miss work due to your injuries, you may be able to recover compensation for lost income.
- Pain and suffering: This covers physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: If your bike or other personal property was damaged in the accident, you may be able to receive compensation for repairs or replacement.
Understanding New York’s Comparative Negligence Law
New York operates under a comparative negligence law, which means that if both parties are found to be at fault for an accident, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%.
Statute of Limitations
It’s important to note that there is a time limit for filing a personal injury claim in New York. The statute of limitations for bike accidents is typically three years from the date of the accident. It’s best to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident to ensure you do not miss this deadline.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been injured in a bike accident in New York, it’s important to seek the help of a personal injury lawyer who has experience with bicycle accidents.
A personal injury lawyer specializes in representing individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongdoing of others. They handle a variety of cases, including bike accidents, car accidents, slip and falls, and medical malpractice.
If you have been injured in a bike accident, a personal injury lawyer can help by:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence to support your case
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation
- Representing you in court if the case goes to trial
Protect Yourself
Bike accidents can result in serious injuries and financial losses. If you have been injured while riding a bike in New York, it’s important to understand your legal rights and seek the help of a personal injury lawyer to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Remember to always prioritize your safety and seek medical attention immediately after an accident, and then contact a lawyer who can guide you through the legal process. By understanding your rights, you can protect yourself and receive the compensation you deserve.