Bicycle accidents can result in severe injuries, expensive medical care, lost wages, and long-term physical impacts. If you were injured because of another’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Bicycle accident claims in Middlesex County often involve negligent drivers, hazardous road conditions, insurance disputes, and uncertainty regarding liability. As such, understanding your rights in these matters is critical. Contact our experienced New Jersey personal injury attorneys today to discuss your case. At Stathis & Leonardis, LLC, we are committed to ensuring that you receive the compensation that you deserve.
What Are the Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in New Jersey?
One of the major causes of bicycle accidents in New Jersey is driver negligence. If a motorist is negligently operating their car on the same road as a cyclist, it is likely that an injury can result. Bicycle accidents can have devastating consequences that can add health and financial burdens. If you were injured in a bicycle accident, proving the negligence of the other party is critical to recover compensation.
Bicycle accident claims in New Jersey often involve local roads, county intersections, municipal maintenance, and state traffic laws. As such, bicyclists injured in Edison, Metuchen, Piscataway, and other Middlesex County communities may face unique legal and insurance complications, depending on where and how the accident happened.
Common Driver-Related Causes of Bicycle Accidents
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Carelessness behind the wheel
- The use of electronic devices without hands-free technology
- Distracted driving
- Fatigue
- Speeding in residential areas
- Failure to yield to bicycles
- Unsafe lane changes
- Opening car doors in bike lanes (known as “dooring” accidents)
- Failure to check blind spots before turning
Dangerous Road and Environmental Conditions That May Contribute to Bicycle Accidents
- Potholes
- Uneven pavement
- Construction debris
- Inadequate drainage
- Unsafe road designs
- Obstructed intersections
- Lack of proper signage
In some circumstances, a municipality or government may face shared liability if dangerous road conditions contributed to the accident.
Common New Jersey Bicycle Accident Injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Road rash and lacerations
- Knee and shoulder injuries
- Permanent disability
- Emotional trauma
What Should I Do After a Bicycle Accident?
If you were seriously injured in a bicycle accident and would like to pursue legal action, you must obtain as much evidence as possible to corroborate your claim.
Immediate Steps to Take After a New Jersey Bicycle Accident
- Call 911 immediately to request both police and medical assistance
- Take photos and videos of:
- The damage to your bicycle
- The damage to your vehicle
- Any visible injuries
- Road signs, road conditions, and skid marks
- Move to a safe location, if possible
- Gather witness names and contact information
- Seek immediate medical treatment, even if you feel okay or injuries seem minor
- Preserve evidence
Can I Seek Compensation After a Middlesex County Bicycle Accident?
Those injured in a Central Jersey bicycle accident may be entitled to financial compensation if another party’s negligence causes their crash and subsequent injuries. This compensation can include both economic and non-economic damages.
Potential Compensation for a New Jersey Bicycle Accident Claim
- Medical expenses
- Surgeries
- Medication
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability
Who Can Face Liability?
Depending on the circumstances of the Middlesex County bicycle accident, the following parties may potentially face liability:
- Negligent drivers
- Commercial vehicle operators
- Employers
- Government entities
- Property owners
- Bicycle manufacturers
What Is PIP Insurance and Does It Apply to Bicycle Accidents?
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a form of no-fault insurance often included in New Jersey auto insurance policies. Generally, when an auto accident occurs, the drivers involved will first file through their PIP insurance to recover compensation. This coverage may be extended to injured bicyclists in certain bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles.
What PIP Insurance May Cover
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation costs
- A portion of lost wages
- Certain out-of-pocket expenses related to the injury
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accidents?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for all personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you fail to file your case within two years of your bicycle accident, you will likely lose the opportunity to recover compensation.
Contact Our Experienced Middlesex County Injury Firm
If you have suffered injuries as a result of a negligent driver or dangerous road conditions in Edison, Metuchen, Sayreville, or any other Middlesex County community, understanding your legal options is critical. At Stathis & Leonardis, LLC, our team will do everything possible to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about your rights and how we can assist you.
