Bike Accident Lawyers in New York
Cycling should be a healthy, cost-effective way to get around New York. But for too many people, a bike ride ends with a collision, an ambulance, and life-changing injuries. If a careless driver has hit you in New York, you deserve answers and support. A New York bicycle accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you need to recover.
Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers has been representing injured cyclists across Westchester and Rockland Counties for decades. We understand the challenges riders face after a crash, including medical bills, lost income, pressure from insurance companies, and uncertainty about what comes next. You do not have to handle these challenges on your own. Let us help you figure out how to move forward.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in New York
Every bicycle accident has its own story, but certain dangerous behaviors recur time and again. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents we see include the following:
- Drivers failing to yield when turning across bike lanes or at intersections;
- Distracted driving, including texting or adjusting navigation systems;
- Opening car doors into a cyclist’s path (“dooring”);
- Speeding or aggressive driving in residential neighborhoods;
- Unsafe passing, especially on narrow streets;
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; and
- Poor visibility due to weather or inadequate lighting.
A New York bike accident lawyer at Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers can work to investigate what happened, collect evidence, and identify everyone who may share responsibility for the crash.
Injuries Often Seen in New York Bicycle Crashes
Cyclists are entirely exposed to the force of a collision. Even at lower speeds, the impact can lead to severe and lasting harm. Our firm has helped clients recover compensation for injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions and skull fractures;
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis;
- Broken bones and complex fractures;
- Severe road rash and lacerations;
- Internal organ damage and internal bleeding;
- Facial fractures and dental injuries;
- Joint injuries requiring surgery;
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement; and
- Emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress.
If you were involved in a crash, it is critical to seek medical care immediately. Symptoms that seem minor at first can worsen over time. Early treatment also creates documentation that will support your legal claim.
What to Do After a New York Bicycle Accident
In the moments after a crash, you may feel disoriented and overwhelmed. These steps can help protect your health and your rights:
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance;
- Stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives;
- Exchange information with the driver, including insurance details;
- Collect contact information for any witnesses;
- Take photos of the scene, your bicycle, and any visible injuries;
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel stable; and
- Avoid discussing fault with the driver or the driver’s insurance company.
When you are able, contact a New York bicycle accident attorney to review your options. The sooner you get legal guidance, the more time your lawyer has to preserve evidence and build a strong case.
How No-Fault Insurance Applies to Bicycle Accidents
New York follows a no-fault insurance system for motor vehicle accidents. If you own a vehicle with Personal Injury Protection (PIP), your policy may cover your medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, even though you were riding a bike. If you do not own a vehicle, the driver’s insurance may be responsible for these initial costs.
However, PIP does not cover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. If your injuries meet the serious injury threshold, you may file a personal injury lawsuit to pursue additional compensation. An experienced New York bicycle accident injury lawyer will help you understand how these rules apply to your situation.
What Qualifies as a Serious Injury?
To step outside the no-fault system, your injuries must be legally classified as serious. Qualifying injuries include:
- Bone fractures,
- Significant disfigurement,
- Permanent loss of use of a body organ or function,
- A significant limitation of a body function or system, and
- Injuries that prevent you from performing daily activities for at least 90 of the first 180 days after the accident.
Even if you are unsure whether your injuries meet this threshold, it is worth discussing your case with a lawyer. You may have more options than you realize.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bicycle Accident?
Drivers are required to share the road and exercise reasonable care and caution at all times. If a driver fails to meet this duty, they can be held liable for the harm they cause. Other potentially responsible parties may include:
- Employers of drivers operating company vehicles,
- Property owners who created or failed to correct dangerous conditions,
- Government entities responsible for maintaining roadways or signage, and
- Manufacturers of defective vehicle components.
Identifying all sources of liability is essential to maximizing compensation. A thorough investigation often reveals factors that were not obvious at the scene.
What Compensation Can Cover in a New York Bike Accident
Every bicycle accident case is different. The value of your claim depends on the nature and severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the insurance coverage available. A successful claim may provide compensation for:
- Emergency medical care and hospitalization,
- Surgery and follow-up appointments,
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation,
- Prescription medication and medical equipment,
- Lost income during recovery,
- Reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your prior job,
- Pain and suffering,
- Emotional distress,
- Loss of enjoyment of life,
- Bicycle repair or replacement, and
- Funeral expenses in fatal accidents.
A New York bicycle accident lawyer at Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers will work with your medical providers and other experts to calculate the full extent of your losses.
Why These Claims Are Often Disputed
Insurance companies have a financial interest in paying as little as possible. The driver’s insurance adjuster may argue that:
- You were not visible to the driver,
- You were riding outside the designated lane,
- Your injuries were preexisting or exaggerated, or
- Your bicycle was not properly maintained.
You do not have to face these tactics alone. Our skilled team can respond to these arguments and present evidence that supports your version of events.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accident Claims
Bicycle accident victims often have many questions. Here are answers to some of the most common concerns we hear from prospective clients in New York.
What If the Driver Left the Scene?
Hit-and-run accidents are especially stressful. If the driver fled, you may still have options, including your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, or you might be eligible for benefits under the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC). These claims can be complex, and insurers often resist paying without thorough documentation. Your New York bike accident attorney can guide you through this process.
What Should I Do If I Cannot Afford Medical Care?
If you have no health insurance or are concerned about affording treatment, consult with your lawyer immediately. In some cases, medical providers will agree to delay billing until your case is resolved. Your attorney can also help coordinate benefits and identify other sources of coverage.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit for a Bicycle Accident in New York?
In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, there are exceptions. If a government entity is involved, you may have as little as 90 days to file a notice of claim. It is essential to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to determine the correct filing deadline.
Do I Have a Case If I Was Not Wearing a Helmet?
Yes. While wearing a helmet is strongly recommended, it does not prevent you from pursuing a claim. The other driver still has a legal duty to operate their vehicle safely. However, not wearing a helmet may affect the amount of compensation you receive if it contributes to your injuries.
Why Choose Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers
Our firm has been serving injured clients across New York since 1959. We understand that a bicycle accident is not just a legal matter; it is a deeply traumatic experience that can impact every part of your life. When you work with us, you receive:
- Individualized attention from your attorney,
- Clear communication at every stage,
- Honest answers about your options,
- Decades of experience handling complex injury cases, and
- A bilingual team serving English and Spanish-speaking clients.
Let us handle the legal details so you can focus on healing.
Talk with a New York Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers Today
You did not choose to be in this position. But you can decide how to respond. A skilled lawyer can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers has offices in White Plains and New City and serves clients across New York State. Whether you are recovering from an injury yourself or helping a family member, we are ready to help.
Call today to schedule a free consultation. No pressure. No obligation. Just trusted guidance from a team that has been standing up for injured cyclists since 1959.