Are You an Avid Bicycle Rider Navigating the Streets of New York City?
Biking in New York City comes with an inherent risk of accidents due to traffic congestion. Discover what to do after a bike accident to protect your rights and get the care you need.
In the year 2023, New York City recorded the highest number of bike rider fatalities and injuries in 23 years, with 30 bike rider fatalities and 400 injuries reported. [1]
Steps to Follow After a Bike Accident in New York City
In the chaotic moments following an accident, stay calm and take immediate action to ensure the safety of everyone involved. These actions can help mitigate further damage, protect yourself and others, and gather essential information for insurance claims and police reports.
Call 911 for Emergency Assistance
Call 911 for emergency medical assistance immediately after experiencing a bicycle accident. When involved in a bicycle accident, you may sustain injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries like broken bones or head trauma. In these situations, prompt medical attention becomes necessary for several reasons.
Contacting 911 also serves as documentation of the accident and the injuries sustained. This record can be vital for insurance claims, legal proceedings, or any potential investigation related to the accident.
Move to a Safe Location If Possible
Moving to a safe location as soon as possible after the accident is of paramount importance. Staying in a dangerous area can further harm you and others involved in the accident.
If it is safe and you can move, get out of harm’s way. Move to a sidewalk, a nearby grassy area, or any location away from traffic flow. Avoid leaving the accident scene, as you may need to exchange information with other parties.
Exchange Contact Information with the Drivers Involved
In the unfortunate event of an accident, exchanging contact information with the drivers is significant. It ensures you have the necessary details for future correspondence or insurance claims.
When exchanging contact information, gather the following details:
- Name
- Contact information
- Insurance details
- License plate Number
- Vehicle registration
Gather Witness Information
Securing witnesses will help build a strong legal case after a bike crash in New York City. Witnesses can provide unbiased accounts of the incident, establishing a reliable record of events. This information can be crucial in determining fault and liability.
Steps to gather witness information in the event of a bike accident in New York City:
- Approach Witnesses: Identify individuals who may have observed the accident and approach them. Introduce yourself, explain the situation, and request their assistance as a witness.
- Collect Contact Details: Ask witnesses for their full names, phone numbers, and email addresses. This information will be helpful for future communication and legal proceedings.
- Record Witness Statements: Encourage witnesses to provide a detailed account of what they saw. Ask specific questions about the accident, such as the location, time, and actions of all parties involved. Request that they describe the weather conditions and any other relevant details they may have observed.
Seek Medical Care and Document Injuries
After experiencing a bicycle crash, seeking immediate medical care is necessary. Check yourself and others for injuries. Prioritize your health and well-being by promptly consulting medical professionals. Even if you think your injuries may be minor, they will need to be assessed by a healthcare provider.
Some injuries may not exhibit immediate symptoms but can worsen over time if left untreated. Prompt medical attention can ensure that any internal or hidden injuries are diagnosed early and treated accordingly.
Keep All Medical Records and Medical Bills Related to the Accident
Keeping all medical records of an accident has value for several reasons. These records serve as concrete evidence of the injuries sustained and medical expenses incurred and are vital when filing a claim and providing proof of the extent of injuries or damages.
Medical records provide detailed documentation of the treatment received, the severity of injuries, and the extent of medical care required. Insurance companies rely heavily on these records when determining the amount of financial compensation to be awarded.
Notify Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider and inform them of the details of the accident, including the date, time, and location. Be prepared to provide any relevant information they may request, such as the police report number or details of any injuries sustained.
Notifying your insurance company is essential for initiating the claims process. Your insurer will guide you through the next steps, which may involve submitting a claim form and providing documentation to support your claim.
Promptly informing your insurance company can help expedite the claims process and ensure you receive the coverage you’re entitled to under your policy.
File a Police Report
Filing a police report after an accident is important to establish responsibility, preserve the circumstances of the incident, and have a key piece of evidence for potential legal action.
The police accident report documents important details such as the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as any contributing factors like weather conditions or road hazards.
The accident report serves as an official document that provides an objective account of the accident, which can play a significant role in determining who is at fault. Involving law enforcement helps determine who is liable for the accident and provides an impartial assessment of the circumstances based on evidence and witness statements.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
When addressing personal injury cases, consider the importance of an experienced New York bicycle accident lawyer. Bike accident lawyers are there to provide essential legal guidance, information about rights, assist in negotiations, and advocate for the bike accident victims’ best interests.
Bicycle accident attorneys understand the intricacies of personal injury law, and how to navigate through complex legal procedures. An experienced bicycle accident attorney will empower their client to make educated decisions about their case.
Call Goldberg & Loren or fill out a form to schedule a free consolation regarding your bicycle accident today.
FAQs
It's advisable to contact a bike accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident, especially if you've suffered injuries or property damage. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you pursue maximum compensation.
A skilled personal injury lawyer can handle communication with insurance companies, gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you in court if necessary. They work to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Yes, there are time limits, known as Statutes of Limitations, for filing personal injury claims. In New York, the general Statute of Limitations for personal injury cases is three years. [2] However, it is advisable to consult with an attorney to understand the specific deadlines that apply to your case.
Sources:
[1] Chi’en, A. (2024, March 6). NYC cyclist deaths hit record high in 2023. FOX 5 New York. https://www.fox5ny.com/news/nyc-cyclist-deaths-hit-record-high-in-2023
[2] System, N. Y. S. U. C. (n.d.). Statute of Limitations chart | NY CourtHelp. Copyright © 1996-2022 Office of Court Administration, the New York State Unified Court System – ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Without Prior Written Consent, Any Form of Copying or Alteration Is Strictly Prohibited. https://nycourts.gov/courthelp/GoingToCourt/SOLchart.shtml
