Bicycling is a fun recreational activity for many people, and for others, it is a convenient way to travel from one place to another in an urban area. As its popularity grows, so too do accommodations. Bicycling paths are a common part of community, city, and state-wide planning. Now, bicyclists can be found on and off the road just about everywhere. Contact us at (973) 298-4557 or online to schedule a free consultation to get started on your claim.
The increase in bicycles, however, has been followed by an increase in bicycle accidents. When a cyclist is in an accident, whether with another cyclist, pedestrian, or motor vehicle, serious injuries can result. You may be able to recover compensation when another party is at fault. Compensation can include bodily injury, property damage, lost wages, and more. At Mongiardo Law Group, our team of dedicated lawyers can help you develop a personal injury claim that addresses all the damages you or your loved one suffered.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen anywhere, at any time, for any number of reasons. There are, however, certain situations that tend to lead to more bicycle accidents.
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Getting struck by a car, which is the most common cause of bicycle accidents (as well as the most deadly), according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA)
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Hitting something in the road, which is also very common and can be the result of poor road conditions, poor road maintenance, or things like debris
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Swerving to avoid a person or an animal, the animal of which may be a domestic or wild animal
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Low visibility because bicycles are small and are difficult to see, especially at certain times of the day (dusk and dawn)
Determining the cause of a bicycle accident is a critical part to recovering fair and just compensation for your injuries. When the accident was caused by another person or entity, they are liable for the damages you suffered if they owed you a duty of care.
For example, a car driver owes bicyclists a duty of care on the road, which typically means following the rules of the road. Pedestrians owe a duty of care to be mindful of other people in and around the roads and bike paths. When pedestrians bring their animals on walks, they must control their animals and avoid interfering with the safety of others, like cyclists.
Common Cyclist Injuries
Injuries from bike accidents range from scratches to death. Like any accident, the severity is dependent on the circumstances. Common injuries include:
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Facial or dental injuries
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Road rash
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Dislocated or broken bones or fractures
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Severe knee injuries, including tears of the ACL or MCL, from the impact with the car
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Severe hand and wrist injuries from the impact with the ground
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
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Spinal injuries
Something unique to bicyclists are injuries caused by “dooring.” Dooring occurs when someone in a parked car opens the door without looking first. A cyclist fails to see the door open in time and collides with the door. Injuries associated with this type of accident include the above but often also include the following:
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Concussions
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Whiplash
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Internal bleeding
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Internal organ damage
Wearing a helmet and other protective gear helps prevent serious injuries, but they are not enough to protect against automobiles. In worse case scenarios, wrongful death may occur.
Bicycle Accidents and Personal Injury Claims
A bicycle accident often leaves the cyclist with severe injuries and property damage, both of which can be expensive. Insurance companies typically make a settlement offer that they claim will cover the victim's losses. However, insurance adjusters often rush to offer a settlement without a full evaluation of the injuries (and the potential ongoing care that may be required). Without a full and fair understanding of all losses, any settlement offer will be too little.
An alternative to auto insurance settlement is filing a personal injury lawsuit. This process allows you the time needed to fully understand your current and future economic losses. It also allows you to compensate for one big hurdle in bicycle injury cases: the misconception of cyclists.
Cyclists are often believed to be reckless. Insurance companies assume cyclists do not follow the rules of the road like their driver counterparts. They will use these misconceptions to help build their case against the cyclist, and sometimes it can work because often it is your word against the other person's word. Bicyclists can, therefore, be intimidated and manipulated into accepting reduced settlement payouts. This is why you need New Jersey bicycle injury attorneys helping you through the process, so that you can focus on recovering while your attorneys focus on your claim to obtain full and fair compensation.
Contact the Mongiardo Law Group Today
Bicycle accidents can produce serious injuries. If you suffered losses, it is critical to speak with a bicycle accident lawyer in New Jersey today. At Mongiardo Law Group, we will explain your rights and what your options are if you decide to move forward with a personal injury claim. Contact Mongiardo Law Group today at (973) 298-4557 or online to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and to protect your rights.
