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Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Bicycle Accident Experts with offices in Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan & The Bronx
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Queens or anywhere in New York City, the road to recovery can be daunting. Medical bills, physical therapy, and the emotional toll of an accident can be overwhelming. At The Orlow Firm, our team of dedicated Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers is here to help. We specialize in obtaining the maximum compensation you deserve, so you can focus on healing.
Key Takeaways:
- Our experienced Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers guide you through the complex legal landscape.
- Victims may be eligible for compensation including medical costs, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
- Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation
How The Orlow Firm Maximizes Your Bicycle Accident Case
At The Orlow Firm, we are committed to getting you the maximum compensation for your bicycle accident injuries and damages. Here’s how we can assist in building a strong case:
Expert Legal Advice: From the moment you step into our office or speak with us on the phone, you’ll receive expert legal advice tailored to your unique situation. We understand the complexities of bicycle accident cases in Queens and New York City, which equips us to guide you effectively through the legal maze.
Comprehensive Case Assessment: We perform an exhaustive evaluation of the accident, gather necessary evidence, consult experts, and assess all contributing factors. This ensures that no stone is left unturned when establishing liability and calculating the damages owed to you.
Aggressive Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts. Our skilled Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers will aggressively negotiate on your behalf to ensure that the insurance companies honor their obligations and that you receive the full extent of compensation you deserve.
Contingency Fee Basis: Concerned about legal fees? You don’t pay us unless we win your case. This means that our interests are directly aligned with yours; we’re motivated to get you the maximum compensation possible.
Experienced Litigation: If an acceptable settlement can’t be reached, we have the resources and experience to take your case to court. Our team of seasoned lawyers is skilled in delivering compelling arguments that resonate with juries and judges alike.
Local Queens Expertise: Being based in Queens, we are familiar with local laws, courts, and legal precedents, allowing us to offer the kind of localized expertise that can significantly influence the outcome of your case.
Regular Updates and Open Communication: You’ll never be in the dark about the status of your case. We believe in full transparency and will keep you informed about any developments, ensuring that you’re involved in every decision made.
One-on-One Attention: Every case is unique, and we treat them as such. You’re not just a file number at The Orlow Firm; you’ll receive one-on-one attention from our dedicated attorneys who will invest time in understanding your individual needs.
Long-Term Support: Our relationship doesn’t end when the case closes. Whether it’s assistance with medical bills or emotional support, we’re here for the long haul, ensuring that you get back on your feet.
Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation: We encourage you to call us for a free, no-obligation consultation where we can discuss the specifics of your case and how we can help.
Each of these aspects demonstrates our unwavering commitment to your well-being and justice. Trust The Orlow Firm to give you the representation you deserve.
What You Can Be Compensated For in a Queens Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident in Queens, victims often face a series of burdens ranging from medical bills to emotional distress. New York law allows for compensation in multiple categories to help alleviate these burdens and restore the victim’s quality of life. Below are the types of damages you may be eligible for:
Economic Damages
Medical Expenses: From immediate emergency care to ongoing medical treatments, you can claim compensation for all healthcare costs associated with your injuries. This includes hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical needs.
Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss work or made you incapable of performing your job duties, you may be eligible for compensation for your lost income. This also extends to future earning potential if your injuries result in long-term disability.
Property Damage: Your bicycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident can be included in the claim. You are entitled to compensation for repairs or the market value of the lost items.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses: These are miscellaneous costs related directly to the accident or your injuries, such as transportation to medical appointments or the cost of hiring help for household chores you are unable to perform.
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional trauma you experience as a result of the accident can be incredibly taxing. While these damages are difficult to quantify, they are nonetheless a crucial part of your compensation.
Emotional Distress: The psychological impact of an accident is not to be underestimated. If you suffer from anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you may be eligible for additional compensation.
Loss of Consortium: In some cases, injuries can affect your relationship with your spouse or family members, affecting companionship, sexual relations, and shared activities. Compensation can be claimed for this loss of consortium.
Reduced Quality of Life: If the accident has resulted in a long-term or permanent disability that affects your ability to enjoy life as you did before, you can seek compensation for the reduction in your quality of life.
Punitive Damages: In cases where the defendant’s actions were especially reckless or malicious, punitive damages may be awarded as a form of punishment and deterrence.
It’s crucial to consult experienced Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers to thoroughly evaluate your case and advise you on the types of damages applicable to your situation. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss what compensation may be available in your specific case.
Who is Legally Liable in New York for Bicycle Accidents
Determining who is legally responsible in a bicycle accident case in Queens or anywhere in New York City involves a nuanced understanding of both traffic laws and liability principles. In many instances, more than one party could be at fault, making it critical to identify all liable entities to maximize your potential compensation.
Frequently, the driver of a motor vehicle involved in the accident is a primary party responsible for a cyclist’s injuries. The driver could be held accountable for various forms of negligence, such as distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield the right-of-way, or not maintaining a safe distance from the cyclist. New York follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if you, as a cyclist, were partially at fault, you could still be entitled to compensation, albeit reduced based on your share of responsibility.
However, liability is not restricted solely to drivers. The city or municipality can also be found liable if poor road conditions or lack of proper signage contributed to the accident. In these cases, a failure to maintain safe riding conditions for bicyclists could make the governing body responsible for damages.
Commercial entities may also be implicated, particularly if a delivery truck or company car is involved in the accident. The employer could be held responsible under vicarious liability laws, especially if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment when the accident occurred.
Sometimes, the manufacturer of the bicycle or safety gear could be deemed responsible if it’s proven that a design flaw or manufacturing defect contributed to the injuries sustained. In these instances, a product liability claim may be applicable.
Lastly, if your accident was a hit-and-run, or if the responsible party is underinsured or uninsured, your own insurance policy might kick in to cover some of the damages under an uninsured/underinsured motorist claim.
Understanding who is legally responsible in a bicycle accident case can be a complex task requiring thorough investigation and legal expertise. For a comprehensive evaluation of your situation, it’s advisable to consult with Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers who can navigate the intricacies of New York’s laws to identify all potentially liable parties. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to get started on building your case.
Common Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, many of which can have lasting effects on a victim’s life. While some injuries may seem minor initially, they can escalate into severe conditions requiring extensive medical care. Understanding the types of injuries commonly sustained in bicycle accidents is essential for knowing what to expect in terms of medical treatment, recovery, and legal compensation. Experienced Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers can help victims identify the full scope of their injuries and the associated medical costs, forming a critical part of your claim for compensation.
- Head and Brain Injuries: A collision can lead to concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries, often requiring immediate medical attention and long-term rehabilitation.
- Broken Bones: Collisions frequently result in fractures to the arms, legs, collarbone, or ribs. Surgery may be required in severe cases.
- Spinal Injuries: Cyclists may suffer from spinal cord injuries, herniated disks, or nerve damage, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
- Lacerations and Abrasions: Falls often cause severe skin cuts and road rash, which can lead to scarring or infection if not properly treated.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a collision may cause internal bleeding or damage to vital organs, requiring immediate medical intervention.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: These include sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, often requiring physical therapy for recovery.
- Facial Injuries: Accidents can cause broken jaws, dental injuries, or severe facial cuts, potentially requiring reconstructive surgery.
- Psychological Injuries: Apart from physical trauma, victims often experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following an accident.
- Death: Tragically, some bicycle accidents can be fatal, either immediately or due to complications from injuries sustained.
Addressing your injuries promptly and thoroughly is crucial for both your physical recovery and your legal case. Treatment plans and medical documentation serve as compelling evidence to substantiate your claim. For victims of bicycle accidents, understanding the types of injuries they might sustain can help inform their legal actions and shape the compensation they seek. To thoroughly explore your options for claiming compensation for your injuries, consult Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to learn more about how we can assist you in your recovery journey.
Common Types of Bicycle Accidents in Queens and New York City
In Queens and throughout New York City, various scenarios can lead to bicycle accidents, each with its own set of circumstances and legal implications. Identifying the type of accident you’ve been involved in is essential for building a strong case for compensation.
Intersection Collisions: These accidents often occur when a vehicle fails to yield the right-of-way to a cyclist at an intersection. The driver may either run a stop sign or make a turn without checking for cyclists, causing a collision.
Doorings: This type of accident happens when a parked car’s door is suddenly opened into the path of an oncoming cyclist. The cyclist has little to no time to react, leading to a collision with the door.
Rear-End Collisions: These take place when a vehicle hits a cyclist from behind. Usually, this occurs due to the driver’s inattention or failure to maintain a safe distance from the bicycle.
Sideswipes: In these accidents, a vehicle and bicycle are traveling parallel to each other, and the vehicle veers into the cyclist’s lane, making contact. This is often due to distracted driving or failure to check blind spots.
Hit and Run: Tragically, some drivers leave the scene after hitting a cyclist. These cases are particularly challenging and often require additional investigative measures to identify the responsible party.
Right-Hook and Left-Hook Accidents: These happen when a vehicle makes a right or left turn directly in front of a cyclist who is going straight, causing the cyclist to crash into the vehicle.
Poor Road Conditions: Sometimes, the accident may be caused by hazardous road conditions like potholes, uneven road surfaces, or lack of proper signage, making the city or other governing body potentially liable.
Accidents Involving Children: When children are involved, drivers are generally held to a higher standard of care. Accidents with young cyclists can result in severe injuries and complex legal considerations.
Accidents with Commercial Vehicles: These involve larger vehicles like trucks or buses, often resulting in more severe injuries due to the size and weight difference. The employer of the commercial driver may also be liable.
Understanding the scenario in which your bicycle accident occurred can provide crucial context for your legal claim. It can help identify liable parties, establish negligence, and determine the types of compensation you may be entitled to. To navigate the complexities surrounding different accident types, it’s essential to consult Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss your specific case.
Relevant Laws Regarding Bicycle Accidents New York
Understanding the relevant laws can be vital for any cyclist involved in an accident in Queens or New York City. These laws can influence how liability is determined and what kind of compensation is available to victims.
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Article 34: This law lays out the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists, including riding as close to the right-hand curb as possible, and obeying all traffic signals and signs, just like motor vehicles. Failure to adhere to these rules can affect your case under New York’s comparative negligence laws.
New York No-Fault Insurance Law: New York is a no-fault state, meaning that your own insurance policy will cover your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. However, you may step outside the no-fault system and sue the other party if your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold as defined by the state’s Insurance Law.
Local Traffic Regulations: In New York City, local laws may come into play, such as speed limits and right-of-way rules, which can help determine liability in a bicycle accident case. Familiarity with local regulations can help in establishing the negligence of the other party involved.
Rules of the City of New York (RCNY): These provide more specific guidelines for cyclists, including the requirement to use designated bike lanes where available, and prohibitions against riding on sidewalks unless the rider is age 12 or under or the sidewalk is officially designated as a bike route.
New York State’s “Safe Passing” Law: This mandates that drivers must pass bicyclists at a “safe distance” (typically considered to be at least three feet) and at a “safe speed.” If a driver violates this law and causes an accident, it can be a significant factor in determining liability.
Product Liability Laws: If your accident was caused by a defect in your bicycle or any of its components, New York’s product liability laws could make the manufacturer or retailer responsible for your injuries.
Vicarious Liability Laws: If a commercial vehicle is involved in your accident, New York law may hold the employer liable for the actions of their employee, as long as the employee was acting within the scope of their employment when the accident occurred.
Being aware of the laws relevant to your bicycle accident is critical for building a robust case. These laws serve as the foundation for determining fault, liability, and ultimately, the compensation you may receive. For an in-depth understanding of how these laws may affect your particular case, it’s beneficial to consult Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss the laws that could impact your claim.
Statute of Limitations for Bicycle Accidents in New York
Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial for anyone seeking to file a personal injury claim for a bicycle accident in Queens or anywhere in New York. The statute of limitations sets a deadline by which you must file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries. In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally three years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this time frame can bar you from ever pursuing compensation for your injuries, no matter how severe they are or how clear the other party’s liability may be.
However, it’s essential to note that there can be exceptions to this three-year rule. For instance, if the victim is a minor, the statute of limitations doesn’t begin to run until they turn 18 years old, giving them until their 21st birthday to file a claim. Moreover, if your case involves a government entity, different and often shorter deadlines may apply. In such cases, a Notice of Claim may need to be filed within 90 days of the accident, and a lawsuit must be initiated within one year and 90 days.
There’s also the matter of the “discovery rule,” which is sometimes applicable in personal injury cases. This rule allows for the statute of limitations to start running from the moment the injury was discovered, or reasonably should have been discovered, rather than from the date of the accident itself. This can be relevant in cases involving delayed symptoms or diagnoses.
Due to these complexities and the critical importance of timely filing, it’s advisable to consult Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers as soon as possible after your accident. They can help you navigate the intricacies of the statute of limitations and ensure that your rights are fully protected. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to ensure you’re taking the necessary steps within the legal time frames to maximize your compensation.
Bicycle Accident Prevention Methods
Preventing bicycle accidents is a shared responsibility between cyclists, motorists, and city planners. While you can’t control the actions of others, taking specific safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of an accident. As Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers, we strongly advocate for education and proactive behavior to keep our community’s roads safer for everyone.
One of the first steps in prevention is to ensure your bicycle is in good condition. Regularly check brakes, tires, and lights to make sure everything is functioning properly. Visibility is also key to avoiding accidents. Cyclists should wear bright, reflective clothing, especially when riding at night or in poor weather conditions. Additionally, using lights and reflectors on both the front and back of your bicycle can make a substantial difference in being seen by others on the road.
Equally important is understanding and obeying traffic laws. Knowing the rules of the road, such as signaling for turns and stops, adhering to traffic lights and stop signs, and riding in the direction of traffic, can help prevent accidents. Cyclists should also make a point to use designated bike lanes whenever possible, as these lanes are specifically designed to provide a safer space for cyclists on busy city streets.
Awareness and caution are crucial when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Always be alert to the actions of drivers around you, and try to make eye contact with them whenever possible. This helps to ensure that they are aware of your presence. In places where bike lanes are not available or safe, try to keep to the right-most side of the road to let vehicles pass but also be wary of parked cars that might suddenly open their doors into your path.
Cyclists should also be proactive about avoiding common accident hotspots. Intersections, especially those without traffic lights, can be particularly dangerous. Be extra cautious and make sure you’re visible to drivers who might be turning or entering the intersection. Similarly, take extra precautions around large vehicles like trucks and buses, which have more significant blind spots and may find it more challenging to see you.
While preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of an accident, they can’t entirely eliminate it. If you’ve been in an accident, taking quick legal action is crucial. Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers can help you navigate the complexities of the law and work to secure the compensation you deserve. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation to discuss your specific situation.
Additional Resources for Bicycle Accident Victims in Queens
For more information and support regarding bicycle safety and accident recovery in Queens and New York City, here are some valuable resources you can turn to:
- New York Department of Transportation Bicycle Program: This program offers important information on safe cycling and bike routes in New York City. Check their website for updates on bike lanes, maps, and safety tips. NYC DOT Bicycle Program
- Bike New York: This non-profit organization provides free bike education programs and promotes cycling as a safe and sustainable means of transportation and recreation. Bike New York Website
- NYPD Collision Statistics: For those interested in statistics related to bicycle accidents in New York City, the New York Police Department provides monthly collision stats, which can be an eye-opener for cyclists to be more cautious. NYPD Collision Stats
- New York Bicycling Coalition: Advocacy group dedicated to promoting bicycle safety, as well as legal rights for cyclists in New York. NY Bicycling Coalition
For legal support and guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, don’t hesitate to consult with Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation. Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in New York bicycle laws and can help you navigate the complexities of your case to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I partly contributed to the accident?
New York follows the rule of comparative negligence, which means you can still recover damages even if you are partially at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of your fault.
Do I have to go to court?
Not necessarily. Many personal injury cases are settled out of court through negotiations. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, going to court may be necessary to obtain the compensation you deserve.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer?
The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better. Early legal guidance can help preserve evidence, witness testimonies, and other key elements that could significantly affect your case’s outcome.
What is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on various factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, loss of income, and other damages. Only a detailed evaluation by a skilled attorney can provide a reasonable estimate.
How much does it cost to hire The Orlow Firm?
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. Our fees are a percentage of the settlement or verdict we obtain for you.
How long does it take to resolve such cases?
The duration to resolve a bicycle accident case can vary widely depending on its complexity, the parties involved, and whether the case goes to trial. It could take anywhere from a few months to several years.
Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation if you have more questions or need personalized legal advice.
Why Choose The Orlow Firm?
Choosing the right legal representation after a bicycle accident can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At The Orlow Firm, our Queens Bicycle Accident Lawyers are not only skilled but deeply committed to fighting for your rights. We bring decades of experience in New York personal injury law to the table, combined with a keen understanding of the specific challenges bicycle accident victims face. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case. We also offer a personalized approach, treating each client as a unique individual, not just another case number. When you choose The Orlow Firm, you’re choosing expertise, dedication, and a firm that will go the extra mile to secure the best possible results for you. Call (646) 647-3398 For A Free Case Evaluation and experience the difference that dedicated legal service can make.