New York City Bike Sharing Accident Lawyers

Key Takeaways

• Bike-sharing services are increasing in popularity, but they come with unique risks.
• The Orlow Firm specializes in bike-sharing accidents, offering unparalleled expertise to help you maximize your case.
• If you’ve been involved in a bike-sharing accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
• Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation.

How The Orlow Firm Maximizes Your Bike Sharing Accident Case

Navigating the aftermath of a bike-sharing accident in New York City can be overwhelming. From medical bills to dealing with insurance companies, the complexities can easily take a toll on you. That’s where The Orlow Firm steps in to maximize your case’s potential. Here’s how we can help:

Expert Legal Advice: With years of experience in the personal injury law landscape of New York, we understand the intricacies involved in bike-sharing accidents. We offer expert legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances, guiding you through every step of the legal process.

In-depth Case Assessment: We begin by thoroughly evaluating your case to understand the full scope of your injuries, damages, and potential claims. This allows us to build a robust legal strategy aimed at securing maximum compensation.

Identification of Liable Parties: In bike-sharing accidents, identifying the responsible parties can be complex. Whether it’s the bike-sharing company, a car driver, or a municipality responsible for road maintenance, we will pinpoint who is liable and pursue them aggressively for you.

Skilled Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Our experienced lawyers are adept at negotiating with insurance adjusters, ensuring you get the fair compensation you deserve.

Collection of Evidence: To build a compelling case, we’ll collect all necessary evidence including surveillance footage, witness accounts, and expert testimonials. This is crucial for substantiating your claims.

Filing and Litigating the Lawsuit: If negotiations don’t result in a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Our experienced litigators will represent you effectively, arguing your case with the aim of securing the maximum possible award.

Regular Case Updates: We believe in open communication and will keep you informed about the progress of your case at every stage. This not only offers peace of mind but also allows you to make informed decisions.

Contingency Fee Basis: At The Orlow Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis for bike-sharing accident cases. This means you won’t have to pay any upfront legal fees. We only get paid if you win, aligning our goals with yours for maximum case value.

Experienced Team: With multiple offices in Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and The Bronx, we have a team of experienced lawyers who specialize in bike-sharing accident claims. Our combined expertise ensures that every aspect of your case is handled with utmost care and competence.

Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation: We’re here to offer you a free initial consultation to discuss your case. This is your opportunity to understand how we can help maximize your compensation.

By choosing The Orlow Firm, you’re putting your trust in one of the most experienced and dedicated New York City Bike Sharing Accident Lawyers. Let us fight for you, while you focus on recovery. Call (646) 647-3398 now to get started.

Types of Compensation for Victims in New York Bike Sharing Accidents

When you’re involved in a bike-sharing accident in New York City, you may be faced with a range of financial, physical, and emotional burdens. Navigating the legal landscape to secure compensation can be a daunting task, but The Orlow Firm is here to assist you. Understanding the types of compensation you may be entitled to can provide a clearer path forward in your recovery journey. Here are the types of compensation you could potentially secure:

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses: One of the most immediate concerns after an accident are the medical bills. You can be compensated for emergency room visits, surgical procedures, physical therapy, medication, and any other healthcare costs related to your injuries.

Lost Wages: If your injuries have forced you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you’ve lost. This can also extend to reduced earning capacity if you’re unable to return to your previous job or work the same number of hours.

Property Damage: Your bike and any personal belongings damaged in the accident may be covered. This includes repair or replacement costs for items such as your bike, phone, or any other possessions that were damaged.

Transportation Costs: The cost of getting to and from medical appointments can add up. You may be eligible for reimbursement for public transport, rideshare services, or even parking fees.

Rehabilitation Costs: Ongoing therapy or rehabilitation to regain physical or cognitive functions can be expensive. You have the right to claim these expenses as part of your economic damages.

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional suffering you’ve endured as a result of the accident. These damages are not easily quantifiable but are often calculated based on the severity of your injuries and their long-term impact.

Emotional Distress: Accidents can lead to emotional and psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Compensation for emotional distress aims to alleviate some of these non-tangible, yet significant, impacts.

Loss of Consortium: In some cases, your injuries might affect your relationship with your spouse or family. You may be compensated for the loss of companionship, affection, or other relational aspects.

Reduced Quality of Life: If your injuries result in permanent disability or long-term suffering, this could significantly impact your ability to enjoy life as you did prior to the accident. Compensation for reduced quality of life aims to acknowledge this loss.

Punitive Damages: While less common, punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

If you believe you’re entitled to any of the above forms of compensation following a bike-sharing accident in NYC, call (646) 647-3398 for a free case evaluation. The Orlow Firm is committed to ensuring that you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Who is Legally Liable in New York Bike Sharing Accidents

Determining who is legally responsible in a bike-sharing accident in New York City can be a complex endeavor. Various parties could be at fault, and the liability might even be shared among multiple entities.

Firstly, the bike-sharing company itself could be liable, especially if it can be shown that the accident was caused by a poorly maintained or defective bike. For example, if the brakes were not working correctly or there was a structural flaw in the bike, the bike-sharing service may be held responsible for injuries sustained in the accident. In some cases, a software glitch in the bike-sharing app that leads to incorrect usage or bike release could also put the company at fault.

Drivers on the road are another common party found to be responsible. Negligent or distracted driving, failing to yield the right of way to a cyclist, or reckless behavior like speeding can all lead to a driver being found liable for a bike-sharing accident.

Municipalities and government bodies may also bear some responsibility, particularly if the accident was due to poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, or faulty traffic signals. Sometimes the design of the road itself could be inherently dangerous for bike riders, and in such instances, a government entity might be held accountable for the accident.

Pedestrians can sometimes be at fault as well. If a pedestrian suddenly steps into the bike lane without checking for oncoming cyclists, they could be found partially or wholly responsible for any resulting collision.

In certain cases, the cyclist themselves might be partly to blame for the accident, perhaps due to ignoring traffic rules or cycling recklessly. New York follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means that even if you are partially at fault, you can still recover damages, although your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Lastly, manufacturers of safety equipment like helmets or reflective gear can also be held liable if it’s proven that a defect in their product contributed to the severity of the accident.

As you can see, determining legal responsibility in a bike-sharing accident is complicated and often requires an in-depth investigation. The Orlow Firm specializes in meticulously examining all aspects of such accidents to identify who is legally responsible, thereby ensuring that you can make a solid case for compensation. If you’ve been involved in a bike-sharing accident and are uncertain about who’s liable, call (646) 647-3398 for a free case evaluation. We’re here to help you navigate this intricate legal terrain.

Common Injuries Suffered in NYC Bike Sharing Accidents

In the bustling streets of New York City, bike-sharing accidents can result in a wide array of injuries. From minor scrapes to severe, life-altering conditions, the physical toll of such an accident can be devastating. Even if you take all necessary precautions, such as wearing a helmet and following traffic rules, you’re not entirely safe from the hazards presented by reckless drivers, faulty bikes, or poorly maintained roads. Below are some of the types of injuries you might sustain in a bike-sharing accident.

1. Cuts and Scrapes: These are some of the most common injuries and can range from minor to severe, requiring stitches or even leading to infections if not properly treated.
2. Bruises and Contusions: Impact with a vehicle or falling onto the pavement can result in painful bruising that may take time to heal.
3. Fractures and Broken Bones: Collisions can often result in fractures to bones such as wrists, arms, and legs. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
4. Head Injuries: Even with a helmet, head injuries, including concussions, can occur. These injuries can have long-term consequences and may require extensive medical evaluation.
5. Spinal Injuries: A bad fall or collision can lead to injuries to the spine, which can be extremely serious and may result in long-term or permanent disability.
6. Sprains and Strains: Ligaments and muscles can get stretched or torn during an accident, requiring medical treatment and possible physical therapy.
7. Dislocations: Joints like shoulders or hips may be dislocated upon impact, causing immediate pain and requiring urgent medical attention.
8. Internal Bleeding: In more severe accidents, internal organs can be damaged, leading to internal bleeding which is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
9. Psychological Trauma: Besides physical injuries, the emotional impact of an accident can lead to conditions like PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
10. Dental Injuries: Falling face-first or impacting your jaw could result in chipped teeth, lost teeth, or jaw injuries.

The aftermath of sustaining any of these injuries can be a stressful and financially draining experience. Medical bills pile up, and you might have to take time off work for treatment and recovery. Not only do these injuries affect your physical well-being, but they can also have a long-lasting impact on your quality of life. That’s why it’s crucial to consult a specialized law firm like The Orlow Firm. We’re experts in navigating the complex landscape of personal injury law in New York City, ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call (646) 647-3398 for a free case evaluation and let us help you on your road to recovery.

Common Types of New York Bike Sharing Accidents

In the fast-paced environment of New York City, there are various scenarios in which a bike-sharing accident could occur. Navigating through the city’s dense traffic and complex roadways can present a host of challenges that may lead to accidents under different circumstances.

Intersection Collisions: One of the most common scenarios is an accident at an intersection. This can happen when a vehicle fails to yield to a cyclist or runs a red light, causing a collision with a bike rider.

Doorings: This occurs when a parked car’s door suddenly opens into a bike lane or the path of a cyclist, leading to an abrupt and often dangerous crash.

Rear-End Collisions: Inattentive drivers might not notice a cyclist in front of them, leading to rear-end collisions that can result in severe injuries, especially if the vehicle is moving at a high speed.

Sidewalk Crashes: Sometimes cyclists are forced onto the sidewalk due to construction or blocked bike lanes. Collisions with pedestrians or fixed objects can happen in these instances.

Faulty Equipment: Bike-sharing companies are supposed to maintain their fleet, but sometimes they fall short, leading to accidents caused by equipment failure such as faulty brakes or worn-out tires.

Slip and Falls: Inclement weather or poor road conditions like icy or wet surfaces can cause cyclists to slip and fall, potentially leading to severe injuries.

Accidents Involving Public Transport: Collisions can occur between cyclists and buses, trams, or subways, especially when public transport makes sudden stops or turns without warning.

Left or Right Hook: Drivers making a turn might not notice a cyclist coming from the opposite direction, causing them to “hook” the cyclist and result in a crash.

Pedestrian Interference: At times, pedestrians can step into bike lanes without looking, causing cyclists to swerve dangerously or crash trying to avoid a collision.

Hit and Run: Unfortunately, some drivers or even other cyclists may flee the scene after causing an accident, leaving the injured party without immediate recourse.

Knowing the types of scenarios that can lead to bike-sharing accidents in NYC is the first step in understanding your rights and options for legal recourse. The Orlow Firm has extensive experience dealing with all these types of scenarios and more. We’re committed to thoroughly investigating your case, identifying the responsible parties, and fighting to get you the compensation you deserve. For expert guidance and a free case evaluation, call (646) 647-3398.

Relevant Laws Governing Bike Sharing Accidents in New York

Navigating the legal landscape following a bike-sharing accident in New York City can be daunting. Several laws and regulations come into play that can significantly impact your case.

New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law: This is a comprehensive set of rules governing all forms of traffic, including bicycles. It stipulates various rights and responsibilities of cyclists, including the requirement to obey all traffic signs and signals, the proper use of bike lanes, and the need for specific safety equipment like lights and bells.

New York City Traffic Rules and Regulations: On top of state laws, NYC has its own set of traffic rules that specifically address bike riding. These include rules about where you can park your bike, how to use bike lanes and bike paths, and restrictions on riding on sidewalks, among other provisions.

Common Law Negligence: In personal injury cases like bike-sharing accidents, common law negligence principles apply. This involves proving that the at-fault party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and as a result, you suffered damages.

Consumer Protection Laws: These can be relevant if the bike-sharing service provided faulty equipment that led to your accident. These laws mandate that companies must provide consumers with products that meet specific safety standards.

New York’s No-Fault Law: Although this primarily applies to motor vehicle accidents, it can also be relevant in bike-sharing cases involving a collision with a car. Under this law, your own insurance or the vehicle’s insurance may cover medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault.

Pure Comparative Negligence Rule: New York follows this rule, allowing you to recover damages even if you are partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Liability Waivers and User Agreements: Many bike-sharing companies require users to sign liability waivers or agree to user terms that might limit the company’s liability in case of an accident. However, these are not always enforceable, especially if the company is found to be grossly negligent.

Understanding these laws and how they interact is crucial when pursuing a personal injury case related to a bike-sharing accident. The Orlow Firm has extensive knowledge and expertise in applying these laws to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. To discuss the specifics of your case and how these laws may apply, call (646) 647-3398 for a free case evaluation.

Statute of Limitations for Bike Sharing Accidents in New York

In New York, time is of the essence if you’ve been involved in a bike-sharing accident. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit, and missing this window could jeopardize your ability to receive compensation for your injuries and losses. For personal injury cases in New York, including those involving bike-sharing accidents, the statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means you have a three-year period to file a lawsuit against the negligent party or parties responsible for your injuries.

There are, however, some nuances to consider. If your accident involved a collision with a municipal vehicle like a city bus, different rules may apply. Generally, you must file a notice of claim against the city within 90 days of the accident and commence the lawsuit within one year and 90 days. Additionally, if your claim involves a minor, special rules may extend the time you have to file a lawsuit.

It’s also worth noting that while you have three years to file a lawsuit, gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time. Waiting until the last minute can make it more challenging to secure necessary evidence, find witnesses, and obtain all relevant documentation, such as medical records and police reports.

Given these complexities and the strict timelines imposed by the statute of limitations, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced law firm like The Orlow Firm as soon as possible after your accident. We can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that all deadlines are met and that you have the best possible chance of obtaining the compensation you deserve. For a comprehensive understanding of how the statute of limitations applies to your specific case, call (646) 647-3398 for a free case evaluation.

Preventing Bike Sharing Accidents in NYC

Preventing bike-sharing accidents in New York City is a shared responsibility between cyclists, drivers, and the city’s infrastructure. While we can’t control the actions of others or the conditions of the road, there are various precautionary steps that can significantly reduce the risk of being involved in a bike-sharing accident.

First and foremost, understanding and adhering to traffic laws is crucial. Whether it’s obeying traffic signals or making legal turns, being a law-abiding cyclist not only keeps you safe but also establishes credibility in case an accident does occur. Being aware of your surroundings is equally important. Always keep an eye out for vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles on the road that may pose a hazard. Using mirrors can help maintain a 360-degree awareness of your environment.

Wearing appropriate safety gear is another significant aspect of prevention. While New York law requires all cyclists under the age of 14 to wear a helmet, it’s advisable for cyclists of all ages to do so. Helmets can greatly reduce the risk of head injuries in case of an accident. Similarly, wearing reflective clothing and using lights can make you more visible to drivers, especially when riding at night or in low-light conditions.

Checking the condition of the bike before you use it can also be a life-saving measure. Make sure the brakes work, the tires are inflated, and the lights and reflectors are in good condition. Bike-sharing companies are obligated to maintain their fleets, but it’s always good to double-check.

Furthermore, practicing defensive riding techniques can be instrumental in avoiding accidents. This means anticipating the actions of other road users and preparing for the unexpected. Keep a safe distance from vehicles, use hand signals to communicate your intentions, and always be prepared to stop quickly.

Communication is key in any traffic setting. Making eye contact with drivers and pedestrians ensures that they see you, reducing the risk of an unexpected accident. Also, don’t assume a driver sees you just because you see them; always be prepared for sudden and unpredictable movements.

Despite all preventative measures, accidents can still happen. Should you find yourself in such an unfortunate situation, The Orlow Firm is here to provide the legal guidance you need. For a free case evaluation, call (646) 647-3398.

Additional Resources for Bike Sharing Accident Victims in New York

For more information and to better understand bike-sharing accidents and their repercussions in New York City, consider the following resources:

• NYC Department of Transportation – Bicycles: This is a comprehensive source for bike-related information in NYC, including safety tips and cycling trends.
  Visit NYC DOT Bicycles
• Bike New York: Offers education on bike safety, which is a must for any cyclist. Their courses are free and cover essential information to keep you safe on the roads.
  Visit Bike New York
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Bicycle Safety: This federal agency provides tips, statistics, and general information on bicycle safety at a national level.
  Visit NHTSA Bicycle Safety
• New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law: It’s a good idea to be familiar with the laws governing bicycling in New York, as well as traffic laws more broadly.
  Read the New York State VTL
• NYC Bike Map: Offered by the NYC Department of Transportation, this map shows bike lanes and other important information for cyclists in the city.
  Download the NYC Bike Map
• Streetsblog NYC: This online publication covers traffic safety issues, legislation, and other topics relevant to bikers in NYC.
  Visit Streetsblog NYC
• Citibike NYC: The official website for New York City’s public bike share program provides user guidelines and safety tips.
  Visit Citibike NYC

For more personalized advice and to understand how to best navigate the aftermath of a bike-sharing accident in New York City, call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I partly contributed to the accident?
New York follows the rule of “pure comparative negligence,” meaning you can still recover damages even if you are partially at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of your fault.

How quickly should I contact a lawyer?
You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident. Immediate legal advice can help protect your rights and preserve crucial evidence.

How long does it take to resolve such cases?
The time to resolve bike-sharing accident cases varies depending on the complexity of the case, the willingness of parties to settle, and court availability. However, it’s essential to act quickly due to the statute of limitations.

How much does it cost to hire The Orlow Firm?
The Orlow Firm generally works on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.

What is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on various factors such as the extent of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. A detailed evaluation by The Orlow Firm can provide a more accurate estimate.

Do I have to go to court?
While many cases are settled out of court, there’s always a possibility that your case may go to trial, especially if the parties involved cannot agree on a settlement amount.

For more information and a personalized consultation, call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free case evaluation.

Why Choose The Orlow Firm?