Countless citizens choose to use bicycles as a way to transport themselves while being environmentally friendly, saving gas money, or staying physically fit. Unfortunately, cyclists sometimes get into accidents and suffer injuries because of motor vehicles or environmental conditions. Injuries from getting hit while biking, such as broken bones, internal bleeding, or brain damage, can be dangerous or life-threatening.
You need experienced legal counsel after a bicycle accident in Parlin. Medical expenses for injuries sustained in a bike accident can easily balloon out of control. Our lawyers can help you fight for the compensation you deserve after a bicycle accident.
Get a free case review with our bicycle accident lawyers at The Carrion Law Firm at (718) 841-0083.
Are Bike Riders Pedestrians in Parlin, NJ?
New Jersey requires cyclists to follow all the same rules as drivers under N.J.S.A. § 39:4-14-1. This means that cyclists must yield to pedestrians, stop and red lights and stop signs, and so on.
There is often confusion about whether a cyclist is considered a driver or a pedestrian under the law because they share characteristics with both groups.
Even though cyclists are considered drivers, motorists must still take special care around people riding bicycles in New Jersey. For example, N.J.S.A. § 39:4-92.4 requires motorists to move one lane away from cyclists if possible or, alternatively, leave a safe distance between their vehicle and cyclists if a lane change cannot be made. If neither of those options are viable because of traffic flow, the motorist must slow down below 25 miles per hour and be ready to stop and any moment.
Who is Responsible for a Bicycle Accident in Parlin, NJ
When permitted, the party you should be taking to court is the one that caused your accident. Depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding your bicycle accident, different things could have caused it. It is important that you file a claim against the correct entity since you cannot recover damages from an entity that did not cause them.
Motor Vehicle Drivers
Many bicycle accidents happen because motorists do not pay as much attention as they should. A driver who is speeding, rapidly switching lanes, or distracted by a mobile device could hit a bicyclist in their carelessness.
If a driver hit you while they were working, you might be able to sue their employer so long as the driver was doing a work activity. For example, if a pizza delivery car hit your bike while on the way to deliver a pizza, you might be able to sue the pizza parlor.
State and Municipal Entities.
Roads that are filled with debris are just as dangerous to cyclists as they are to motorists.
If the state or municipal entity responsible for road or trail maintenance did not make those areas safe, they could be liable for your injuries. Keep in mind that doing so is complicated and difficult, so consult with our lawyers to see if this is the correct path for your case.
What to do After a Bicycle Accident in Parlin, NJ
A bicycle accident can be a stressful event. However, it is important that you take certain steps quickly to give yourself the best chance of being successful in court should you choose to pursue a claim. Taking any of these steps can help our bicycle accident lawyers prepare a stronger, more effective case on your behalf.
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do after a bicycle accident is see a medical professional. If another motor vehicle was involved in your accident, first responders will likely arrive on the scene in short order. Ensure you stay at the scene of the accident unless told to depart by medical personnel.
Even if first responders tell you that you are ok, it is still a good idea to see a doctor. The adrenaline from a dangerous experience can hide injuries that might reveal themselves a few days later. If you experience pain, soreness, or discomfort in the days following a bike accident, seek medical help.
Moreover, failure to get medical attention after an accident could be seen as negligence on your part and could hurt your case.
Collect Information
Getting as much information as possible about your bicycle accident is critical to building a strong court case. If a driver was involved in your accident, take note of their insurance information, license plate number, make and model of their vehicle, name, and any other information you can acquire.
Bike lanes are often near sidewalks, so there is a good chance that pedestrians were near your accident and witnessed it. There also might have been security cameras from nearby stores or houses. If you are able, talk to them and see what they have to say about the accident.
It is also a good idea to take notes or video recordings right after the accident while the information is still fresh in your mind. The legal process can take years to resolve itself, so making a record of events right after they happen is a good way to stop details from getting lost to time.
Retain Legal Counsel
You should retain legal counsel as soon as you can after your bicycle accident. Not only will it give our lawyers more time to work on your case, but you also do not have unlimited time to bring a claim. The statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in New Jersey is two years per N.J.S.A. § 2A:14-2. After that time, you will not be able to recover damages in court.
Avoid Discussion the Accident
Try not to discuss your bicycle accident with people other than your lawyer before the lawsuit is over. Doing so could cause problems in the courtroom. Especially avoid speaking to opposing parties unless your lawyer is present.
Our Parlin, NJ Bicycle Accident Lawyers Are Ready to Help
Call (718) 841-0083 to speak to our bicycle accident lawyers at The Carrion Law Firm about your case.