Cycling is one of the best ways to get around New York City because of the exercise benefits, the ability to explore different neighborhoods, and reduced environmental impact. Approximately 28% of New Yorkers ride bikes, which means about 1.8 million people could be out riding at any given time.
However, despite NYC’s extensive bike infrastructure with hundreds of miles of dedicated and protected lanes, bike accidents are far too common. Bike fatalities have been on the rise lately, with many unfortunate and preventable injuries occurring throughout the boroughs.
If you were hit by a car on a bike in Brooklyn, here’s what you need to know to take care of yourself and protect your legal rights.
Common Causes to Be Hit by Car on Bike
Collisions between bikes and vehicles are among the most common reasons for bike accidents. Many of these accidents occur when cars and bikes must share lanes. Accidents also happen when cars make left turns in front of oncoming bikes and when drivers enter roads without seeing bikes in their path.
Cyclists may be hit by cars due to distracted or intoxicated driving, speeding, or failing to yield to bikes at intersections. However, cyclists can also be fully or partially to blame for their injuries if they aren’t paying attention to the road, not wearing helmets, or haven’t equipped themselves with reflective gear and lights.
Common bike accident injuries include bone fractures and traumatic brain injuries.
What to Do If You Get Hit by a Car on a Bike
The first thing to do after your bike is hit by a car is to prioritize your safety. If you are able, move off to the side of the road and call 911 for help.
While you wait for the police to arrive, exchange information with the driver of the vehicle and get yourself to a hospital or doctor as soon as possible. Essential details to collect at the accident scene include the vehicle’s license plate number, the driver’s insurance information, witness contact details, and photos of the scene and your injuries.
During these initial verbal exchanges, do not admit fault, even if you believe you could have been at least somewhat to blame for the incident. Discussions of fault can be left for later when an attorney reviews the police report, witness testimony, and medical records describing your injuries.
I Got Hit by a Car While on My Bike – What Do I Do?
Even though you may be in shock after being struck by a vehicle, it is crucial to keep your cool and not panic. It will only make the situation worse if you angrily yell at the driver or downplay your injuries just to avoid conflict.
In addition to taking the steps above after your accident, getting your bike checked out at a repair shop is vital. Since you’ll likely be shaken up and your bike potentially damaged, it is wise to get alternate transportation home rather than getting back on your bike to ride to your destination.
Legal Help After Being on a Bike Hit by Car
We hope that you now understand what to do if you get hit by a car on a bike in Brooklyn. Hurt cyclists in Brooklyn need the experienced legal expertise of a personal injury lawyer who understands the local laws and provides dedicated, aggressive representation to recover the best settlement possible in your case.
If you or someone you love has been hit by a car on a bike, please contact us for a free, no-obligation legal consultation. Day or night, we are here for you and just a call away at 718-237-5586 to help you return to everyday life after a bike accident.
