
Cyclists deserve respect when sharing the New Jersey roads. But, unfortunately, this is sometimes not the case. What’s worse is that if this ultimately results in an accident, the injuries and damages can be devastating. Follow along to learn what you should do if you receive a bicycle accident injury and how a proficient Morris County, New Jersey auto accident lawyer at The Macri Law Firm can work aggressively toward the financial compensation that you rightfully deserve.
How are bicycle accidents commonly caused in the state of New Jersey?
Like most auto accidents in the state of New Jersey, bicycle accidents are commonly caused by motorist negligence. Specific examples of such negligence read as follows:
- Reckless driving, such as changing lanes carelessly, speeding, ignoring traffic lights or signs, etc.
- Distracted driving, such as texting, navigating a GPS, eating, smoking, etc.
- Drugged driving.
- Opening doors before looking both ways.
- Trying to overtake cyclists.
- Driving onto the shoulder of the road.
What steps should I follow if I receive a bicycle accident injury?
If you were injured and/or received damages in a bicycle accident, you may be eligible to hold the negligent motorist accountable via a personal injury claim. This is regardless of whether you were wearing a helmet, elbow pads, and/or shoulder pads because your bicycle likely did not stand a chance against the sheer size and weight of the motor vehicle involved.
For your claim, you must satisfy the burden of proof to show that your injuries and/or damages are in direct correlation to the motorist’s negligence. You should follow the below steps after your accident:
- Alert the authorities: law enforcement will bring medical attention to the scene and conduct an official police report. Ask for a copy of this report afterward.
- Capture the scene: take photos and videos of the scene, such as your injuries, damages, and any contributory hazards.
- Collect contact information: ask for the motorist’s contact information, such as their name, number, email address, insurance company, and insurance policy number. Ask the same for any present witnesses that can provide witness testimony afterward.
- Seek medical treatment: get treated at the scene and schedule follow-up appointments, regardless of whether you feel immediate symptoms. Ask for copies of medical documentation afterward.
- Hire an attorney: contact a talented Parsippany, New Jersey personal injury lawyer. Ask for our help in collecting surveillance camera footage.
- Meet the deadline: in New Jersey, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is usually two years from the date of your accident. If you fail to meet this deadline, you may risk being permanently barred from suing.
CONTACT OUR MORRIS COUNTY FIRM
If you require the services of an experienced team of attorneys for legal matters related to estate planning, personal injury, or medical malpractice, contact The Macri Law Firm today to schedule a consultation.