Yonkers Bicycle Accident Lawyer

In a large city like New York, transportation is necessary. Even though New York has one of the largest transportation systems, as there are public buses and a series of subway stations, there are still a lot of challenges to travel within the city because the streets and highways are usually crowded with cars.

The subway station is also crowded due to the nearly 15.3 million people using that transportation option daily.

Two types of people opt for another way of transportation, the ones who pick a bicycle for it is an eco-friendly option to get them from point A to point B, and those who ride a bike for pleasure or because they love the cycling sport.

However, it poses a great accident potential because many drivers do not properly follow transit laws and cause accidents that endanger their and others' lives.

If you or a loved one got involved in a Yonkers bike accident that resulted in serious injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Don’t hesitate to seek legal help from an experienced bicycle accident lawyer from The Ward Law Group.

Types of Bicycle Accidents

A cyclist can get hurt in an accident in Yonkers in multiple ways. It can involve another cyclist or a pedestrian. Those accidents might be minor accidents that can result in a couple of bruises and scratches.

However, there can also be accidents involving cars, motorcycles, buses, or large trucks that can be deadly for a bicycle rider.

A hit-and-run accident is when one of the involved parties, usually the one who caused the accident, flees from the accident scene, leaving behind the other party without exchanging insurance information or even checking if they are in good condition.

Many times, the drivers who flee from the accident scene are people who are uninsured and know they are doing wrong, so they escape from the consequences they know they will face.

It can also be the case that the driver is someone escaping from law enforcement as they might previously have gotten involved in a violent act or a robbery.

On some other occasions, the at-fault driver gets shocked by the impression of the accident, and they are emotionally struck by not knowing how to proceed, and then the only thing they do is flee.

Accidents at Intersections are prevalent in bicycle accidents. Cyclists usually drive on the right side of the street if not in a bicycle lane. When they encounter an intersection, they may be vulnerable to crashing into a car turning right without taking precautions for a possible cyclist.

Cyclists can also face accidents when they attempt to turn right at an intersection. They are allowed to ride into the left lane when they are about to turn left in an intersection, and depending on the time of the day and weather conditions, they may not be seen by drivers.

It can also be that drivers are being distracted and do not see the cyclist ahead of them and hitting them. Large trucks are prone to hit cyclists early if they don’t take precautions and because of the lots of blind spots they have.

Another cause of a bicycle accident can be poor road conditions. Potholes, lack of signaling, and other factors regarding the conditions of the road can make a bicycle rider lose control and crash into another vehicle.

Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

When there is a bicycle accident in Yonkers, it can have different outcomes, depending on the circumstances of the accident. It is not the same as a crash between a bicyclist and a pedestrian, as a crash between a large truck and a cyclist.

In the first accident, pedestrians and cyclists can get bruises, minor lacerations, a mild concussion, etc. There are generally small consequences.

However, these minor accidents can sometimes cause serious injuries, depending on how people land on the ground or if they have previous health conditions that make them delicate if they fall, like older people. They have a health condition that can be worse if they are hurt.

On the other hand, if a cyclist gets involved in a crash with a car, it is a different story. Bicycle riders tend to get the worst part of the injuries since they don’t have the protection of bodywork.

They usually get serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones or dislocations, amputations, and internal organ damage, among other deadly injuries.

How a Yonkers Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

If you've been involved in a bicycle accident in Yonkers, New York, it's crucial to understand that seeking the assistance of a skilled Yonkers bike Accident Lawyer can make a significant difference in your recovery process.

Bicycle accidents can result in devastating injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills. The Ward Law Group is here to guide you through this challenging time, providing essential legal support to help you navigate the complexities of your case.

Legal Consultation and Case Evaluation

The first step to take after a bicycle accident is to consult with an experienced Yonkers Bicycle Accident Lawyer like those at The Ward Law Group. During this initial consultation, our legal experts will evaluate the details of your case, including the accident's circumstances, injuries sustained, and available evidence.

This comprehensive analysis allows us to determine the strength of your case and the potential for seeking compensation. Remember that we won’t charge you any upfront fee, and we won’t charge you until we have won fair compensation from the insurance company or the at-fault party in a personal injury lawsuit.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting, primarily when focused on recovering from your injuries. Our Yonkers Bicycle Accident Lawyers are skilled negotiators who can handle discussions with insurance providers on your behalf.

We understand the tactics insurers often use to minimize payouts and will work diligently to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering.

Filing and Handling Lawsuits

Sometimes, reaching a fair settlement with the insurance company may prove challenging. The Ward Law Group is prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf when necessary.

Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the legal process, handling all aspects of your case, from court filings to evidence gathering and court appearances. We are committed to representing your interests and fighting for your deserved compensation.

Seeking Compensation for Damages

Bicycle accidents can lead to various damages, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and long-term disability. Our Yonkers Bicycle Accident Lawyers will diligently pursue all avenues of compensation, including economic and non-economic damages.

We'll work tirelessly to ensure you are fairly compensated for your present and future financial losses and any pain and suffering from the accident.

Emotional and Psychological Support

At The Ward Law Group, we understand that a bicycle accident can take a toll not only on your physical health but also on your emotional well-being. Our dedicated team provides compassionate support throughout the legal process.

We connect you with resources to address the emotional and psychological aspects of your recovery, ensuring that you receive comprehensive care during this challenging time.

Legal Framework and New York State Laws

Regarding bicycle accidents in Yonkers, New York, understanding the legal framework and the state's specific laws is crucial for both accident victims and legal professionals like a Yonkers Bicycle Accident Lawyer.

New York State Laws on Bicycle Accidents

New York has established a set of laws and regulations designed to protect the rights and safety of cyclists. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1231, bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators.

This means that cyclists must obey traffic signals and signs, signal their turns, and adhere to other traffic laws.

Additionally, New York requires that bicycles be equipped with certain safety features, including lights and bells or horns, especially when cycling at night. Helmets are mandatory for all cyclists under the age of 14. Violating these laws may result in fines and penalties.

Comparative Negligence in New York

New York follows a comparative negligence system when determining liability in personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents. Comparative negligence means that if the cyclist and another party share responsibility for the accident, the compensation awarded will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the injured cyclist.

For example, if a cyclist is found to be 20% at fault for an accident, their compensation will be reduced by 20%. This system allows for a fair assessment of each party's contribution to the accident. It ensures that injured cyclists can still seek compensation even if they were partially responsible for the incident.

Criminal Charges that May be Applicable

In cases of severe negligence or reckless behavior, criminal charges may be applicable to the party responsible for the bicycle accident. For instance, if a motor vehicle operator was intoxicated at the time of the accident, they could face charges such as driving under the influence (DUI) or vehicular assault.

These criminal charges are separate from civil compensation claims and can result in additional penalties for the at-fault party.