New York City Bicycle Accident Lawyer

divider

There is no doubt that cycling is a popular form of transportation and exercise throughout New York. In New York City alone, approximately 778,000 New Yorkers ride their bikes at least several times a month, while another 272,000 ride at least once a month, according to the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT). Although riding a bicycle is good for you and the environment, it can also put you at risk of accidents and injuries. In fact, according to the NYC Open Data Portal, a compilation of data from numerous New York City agencies, there have been at least 3,835 dead or injured cyclists in New York City in the past year. In addition, according to crash data published by the federal government, hundreds of additional riders across Long Island and Westchester have been killed in bicycle accidents over the last several years.

It is important to be aware of the common causes of bicycle accidents and ways to avoid them so that you can stay free from unnecessary serious injuries. In the event, that you suffer an injury while cycling, and you believe the accident was someone else’s fault, you should not wait to contact our New York City bicycle accident lawyers for guidance.

Common Causes of Bicycle Crashes in New York City

Every bicycle accident is unique, with its causes and effects. Staying informed regarding the most common causes of bicycle accidents can help you prevent an accident before it takes place.

Automobile Drivers

Almost one-third of bicycle accident injuries happen due to the actions of motor vehicle drivers. When drivers are negligent and make mistakes or poor decisions on the road, they can collide with cyclists, run them off the road, and more. Some common types of collisions caused by automobile drivers include:

When negligent drivers collide with riders or cause bicycle accidents, they should be held responsible for the injuries and losses that result.

Road Hazards

Motor vehicles can crash when they encounter dangerous road hazards, but cyclists are much more vulnerable to accidents in this type of scenario. Road hazards that might lead to a bicycle accident include:

  • Potholes
  • Sewer grates
  • Large cracks in the pavement
  • Gravel on the road
  • Bike lanes with poor design
  • Bike lanes in disrepair
  • Trolley or rail tracks
  • Storm debris on the road

Motor vehicle drivers are not responsible for all bicycle accidents, as some accidents happen due to road hazards and involve only the cyclist. When this happens, the company or agency responsible for road or bike lane upkeep might be liable for the resulting bicycle accident injuries.

Defective Bicycles

Sometimes, bicycle accidents happen for reasons not involving the environment, such as road or traffic conditions, and instead are caused by problems with the bicycle itself. Bike manufacturers are expected to design and assemble bicycles that are safe to ride and that will operate properly. Unfortunately, some companies sell bikes that have defects and can malfunction, often causing cyclists to lose control, crash, and suffer injuries. This is called a product liability case — where the manufacturer can be held liable for your injuries.

Some common bicycle defects that might lead to accidents include:

  • Brakes that do not work properly or fail altogether
  • Defective frames that can come apart or fail to support a cyclist
  • Defective wheels or tires that can detach or blow out suddenly
  • Carbon fork failures
  • Defective quick-release hubs on a bike’s front wheels
  • Defective safety helmets that do not provide the expected level of protection from head injuries

When a defect is the cause of a bicycle accident, the manufacturer responsible for making and selling the bike should be held accountable. A New York City injury attorney can help you determine if your situation calls for a defective product claim.

Steps You Can Take to Avoid A Bicycle Accident in New York City

While you cannot control the actions of others, there are some steps you can take to avoid a bicycle accident:

  1. Avoid distractions while riding, such as talking on your cell phone, texting, or taking pictures, so you can identify any possible hazards or vehicles in your path as soon as possible
  2. Always wear a helmet to help protect you from head or brain injuries
  3. Avoid riding your bicycle while intoxicated
  4. Try to stay off the roads from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm when possible, as this is the most common time for bike accidents
  5. Stay particularly alert when riding in urban settings like NYC
  6. Carefully plan your route if you are riding on roads with traffic
  7. Follow all traffic laws, signs, and signals
  8. Have reflective clothing, lights, and other visibility tools when riding early in the morning or at night

No matter how careful you might be, there is always the chance that you will still suffer an injury in a bicycle accident. If this happens, the best way to protect your rights is to first get the medical treatment you need, and then consult with a Manhattan personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.