At The Wilton Law Firm, our experienced New Jersey personal injury attorneys recognize the dangers bicyclists face on the road, especially from negligent motorists, which is why we pledge to protect their rights after an accident. If you have sustained considerable losses in a bicycle collision with a vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other damages. The Wilton Law Firm is ready to fight on your behalf for the compensation you deserve. To discuss your situation with a legal team you can trust, contact The Wilton Law Firm today and schedule a free initial consultation.
New Jersey Bicycle Accidents
Riding a bicycle is not only a fun recreational activity but also a healthy and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. More and more people are choosing to bike to and from work, school, and other locations because it saves money, is healthy, and doesn’t contribute to pollution. Many cities are responding to this increase in biking by creating bike lanes and making their roads more bike-friendly overall. However, this has not significantly decreased the number of accidents between bicyclists and motorists.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over 50,000 cyclists are injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes per year. This number is only a fraction of the real statistic because most bicycle accidents are never reported. Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, however, bicyclists must take extra precautions while riding. Due to their small size and lack of protection, cyclists usually suffer most in a collision. Even with a helmet and protective clothing, you are no match for a motor vehicle. Possible injuries include head trauma, fractures, spinal injuries, serious abrasions, and severe road rash. These injuries can result in costly medical expenses and long-term health issues, and they may affect the cyclist’s ability to return to work.
Bicycle Accident Liability
In most cases, liability for a New Jersey bicycle accident falls on motorists who fail to safely share the road with bicyclists. A driver who violates traffic laws or is otherwise negligent or reckless puts everyone else on the road in danger and increases the risk of a serious collision. Should a negligent driver cause a bike accident, they may be held liable for the following damages:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of earning capacity
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Who else could be liable?
Liability may also fall onto the city, county, or state if the accident occurred due to a hazardous roadway. Potholes, dangerous blind turns, severely narrow lanes, or even debris pose serious crash hazards. If the agency or department in charge of maintaining a roadway is negligent in its duties, then that agency may be held liable for the losses suffered by a bike accident victim. Finally, if the accident was caused by a defective bike or bike part, you may file a product liability lawsuit. This means that in some cases, our firm can help you sue a negligent bike designer or manufacturer for the compensation you deserve and need.
Contact a Monmouth County Bicycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a New Jersey bicycle accident, you must retain the services of an experienced personal injury attorney. The Wilton Law Firm has decades of experience proudly representing clients who suffer from serious injuries caused by a negligent driver. For quality legal representation when you need it most, contact The Wilton Law Firm today to schedule a free initial consultation.
