Bicycle Accidents

Have You Been Seriously Injured as the Result of a Bicycle Accident?

People are turning to bicycles as a primary way to meet their daily transportation needs. In addition, bicycling is a popular sport for recreational purposes, often putting bikers on a collision course with car drivers who don't always willingly share the road or yield the right of way. Unfortunately, the hazards caused by hostile or inattentive motorists and unkempt and debris-filled roadways result in many riders experiencing serious personal injury such as head and spine injuries, loss of limb, and even death. Bicycle accidents may occur at any time. Whether you are riding your bike across the street to the local convenience store or your child is riding around the block for fun, bicycle accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Road conditions and incompetent car or truck drivers are two of the leading causes of bicycle accidents.

Bike accidents can be caused by a number of factors, some of them being:

• Drivers under the influence;
• Drivers failing to stop for a red traffic light or stop sign;
• Drivers failing to yield the right-of-way;
• Drivers failing to see the bicyclist;
• Drivers making an improper left or right handed turn;
• Drivers attempting to pass a bicyclist when the lane is too narrow;
• Drivers pulling out of a driveway or parking lot without looking to see if a bicyclist is coming; and
• Drivers opening their car door without first looking behind them.

How a Bicycle Accident Attorney Can Help

Our attorneys have what it takes to secure successful case resolutions for clients. Filing a personal injury lawsuit is a complicated and detailed process that requires an exhaustive understanding of the legal system and the determination to pursue your claim to the end.  If you or someone you know has been injured on a bicycle, our firm can help you obtain financial compensation for your suffering.

If you or a family member has been seriously injured in a bicycle accident, you may recover monetary compensation for:

• Pain and suffering
• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Replacement services
• Home modification
• Mileage reimbursement
• Attendant Care

If a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury and is now paralyzed, we will work tirelessly to see that you obtain maximum compensation.  If a family member has been killed as a result of the reckless and negligent actions of a motorist, our attorneys at Gebhardt & Kiefer, P.C., can handle the complicated steps involved in filing a wrongful death lawsuit.  We understand that the unexpected loss of a loved one can be devastating to a family, and our aim is to help.  To learn more about your legal rights or to begin the legal process of filing a claim, please call 908-735-5161.

Bike Accidents: What to Do After the Crash

The following is a list of important things that you should do after being involved in a New Jersey bicycle accident:

• Call 911: It is vital that you wait for police to arrive at the accident scene so that they can take and file a police report.  Even if you think you are not injured.  Some cyclists don't realize they've been injured until several hours after the accident.  And sometimes seemingly minor injuries later develop into serious and permanent problems.
• Get Your Version of Events into the Accident Report: Sometimes, the police officer will take a statement from the motorist and not bother to talk to the cyclist.  Do everything you can to get your side of the story into the police report.  And report all of your injuries, no matter how minor.  Remember, those minor injuries may later become more serious.
• Seek Medical Attention immediately if you have been struck by a vehicle or car door.  Check with a medical professional to make sure you are alright, even if you do not notice any immediate injuries.
• Obtain Driver and Witness Contact Information. If possible, get the name of the automobile driver, as well as his or her address, phone number, driver's license number, vehicle license number, and insurance information.  In addition, try to get names and contact information for everyone who witnessed the accident.  Don't assume the police report will include all of this information.
• Take Pictures. If you happen to have a camera with you, take pictures of the accident scene, damages to your bicycle, and any visible injuries that you suffered.
• Preserve Evidence. Leave your bike and other damaged property in the same state as after the accident.  Don't attempt to fix anything or have anything inspected. Don't wash your clothing.  And don't send your bike, helmet, or any other equipment to anyone other than your attorney.
• Seek Advice from a Professional.  Many accidents between bikes and cars involve complex legal issues.  You may want to consult a personal injury attorney who understands bicycling or has handled bike accident cases.
• Don't Communicate with the Insurance Companies before consulting an attorney. Anything you say to the insurance company could be used against you later. Sometimes a letter from an attorney to the insurance company will resolve issues while avoiding legal pitfalls. In fact, many cases are settled without ever going to trial.

Contact Us

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you need answers about who will be paying your medical bills, who will help you recover from the injuries you have sustained, and who will pay for damage to your bicycle.

The insurance company wants to settle your case as soon as possible – and for as little money as possible.  After an accident, you need time to determine just how serious your injury is, what medical treatment or physical therapy you need, and how much your lost wages will be.  Therefore, it is crucial to retain a qualified personal injury attorney who is well-versed in New Jersey laws to achieve maximum compensation.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a bicycle accident, any delay in obtaining legal representation may be a costly mistake.  Please call 908-735-5161 to schedule a free consultation, or fill out the contact form on this site.  Our firm serves clients throughout central and northwestern New Jersey.