If you ride your bicycle in and around New York City, chances are you have either seen someone else get hit or have almost been hit by a vehicle yourself. Bicycle safety is a serious matter in New York City. If you happen to be the victim of a collision, this post will tell you your next steps if you were injured.
Bicycle safety tips
AAA offers some tips to keep in mind when riding your bike to reduce your risk of collision.
Always wear a helmet
New York state law does not require adults to wear bicycle helmets, but studies have shown that having that extra piece of protection may reduce your risk for injury in case of an accident. Children under 14 are required by state law always to wear a helmet when on a bicycle.
Abide by traffic laws
You must ride with the traffic flow, use turn signals, and abide by stoplights. Use bike lanes and crosswalks when possible, but do not ride on sidewalks.
Use the entire lane when turning
Try to take up enough space in a turning lane so drivers know you are there. That way, they won’t overtake you and potentially hit you. If you turn left, try staying on the right side of the lane. Then, once you have made the turn, move quickly to the right shoulder so cars can pass you if they need to.
What to do if you have been involved in a bicycle crash
Below are some helpful tips if you’ve been hurt in a crash:
Report the accident
According to the New York State Department of Transportation, if you were involved in a collision with a vehicle that occurred in severe injury or death, you must report it to the Department of Motor Vehicles within ten days of the incident.
Do not speak with the driver’s insurance company
There is no reason why the victim should be in contact with the car driver’s insurance company. That’s what a personal injury attorney is for. The insurance company will try to weaken your case and give you as little money as possible.
Hire a lawyer
New York’s “no-fault” law covers the victim’s medical bills regardless of whose fault the accident was. However, if the bicyclist was seriously injured and their medical bills exceeded $50,000, they could file a personal injury claim against the driver for more compensation. A personal injury attorney can help guide you through filing a claim.
If you have been the victim of a bicycle accident, reach out to an experienced New York bike accident lawyer at Hach & Rose, LLP. We will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us at (212) 779-0057 for a free consultation today.