Category Archives: Brooklyn Personal Injury Lawyer

NYC Bicycle Safety: Tips to Avoid Accidents & Injury

Posted on July 30, 2026 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Riding a bike through the countryside doesn’t quite prepare you for the challenges you will face if you ever decide to bike through the concrete jungle of New York City. Cycling through NYC is one of the fastest, greenest ways to get around, but it also means sharing crowded streets with cars, buses, pedestrians, and delivery e-bikes.

One wrong move can lead to a collision with a car that can cause serious injuries. However, riding a bike in the city is not impossible. Many bicyclists do it every day, and these NYC bicycle safety tips will help you ride more confidently, understand the local rules of the road, and know exactly what to do if you are ever in a crash.

Ride Like You’re Driving: Rules of the Road

Stay aware, think ahead, and follow the same traffic laws you would in a car:

Ride with the flow of traffic, never against it.
Be predictable: hold a straight line and signal before you turn.
Take the full lane when it’s too narrow to share; being visible is safer than hugging the curb.
Watch parked cars and leave room to avoid a suddenly opened door (“dooring”).
Obey traffic signals and stop signs, and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.

Visibility and Lights

Many NYC bike crashes happen simply because a driver did not see the cyclist. Wear bright or reflective clothing. Under New York law, you must use a white front light and a red rear light when riding after dark. Add reflectors, and stay out of vehicles’ blind spots, especially around large commercial trucks and buses.

Wear a Helmet (and Know NYC’s Helmet Law)

A properly fitted helmet is one of the most effective ways to prevent a serious head or brain injury in a crash. It should sit level on your head, low on your forehead, with the straps forming a snug “V” under each ear.

Under New York law, all cyclists under 14 must wear a helmet, and New York City requires commercial and delivery cyclists to wear one as well. Even where a helmet isn’t legally required, wearing one is strongly recommended for every rider.

Know NYC’s Bike Lanes and Intersections

New York City has hundreds of miles of bike lanes, but not all are equal. Protected lanes separate you from traffic; painted lanes do not. Most serious crashes happen at intersections and driveways, where turning drivers may not expect a cyclist. Stay especially alert for right-turning vehicles (“right hooks”) and cars crossing the lane.

E-Bike and Micromobility Safety

E-bikes are everywhere in NYC and move faster than traditional bikes, which shortens everyone’s reaction time. Whether you ride an e-bike or share the road with one, keep more distance, anticipate higher speeds, and stay predictable. E-bike riders should use lights, wear a helmet, and follow the same rules of the road as any cyclist.

Common Bicycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them

There are several ways in which a bicyclist can be involved in an accident:

Dooring: a parked driver opens a door into your path. Ride a door’s width away from parked cars.
Right hook: a driver turns right across the bike lane. Watch turn signals and make eye contact.
Rear-end: a driver hits a cyclist from behind. Use lights and take the lane where needed.
Left-cross and intersection crashes: slow down and stay visible at every crossing.

What to Do After a Bike Accident in NYC

Get to safety and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
Seek medical attention right away: brain-injury symptoms can be delayed and are not always obvious at the scene.
Get the driver’s license, insurance, and contact information.
Photograph the scene, your bike, your injuries, and any hazards.
Collect witness names and contact details.
Don’t admit fault: contact our law firm before dealing with insurers.

Injured While Cycling? Get Legal Help

Bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries. If your crash was caused by another party’s negligence (often a car-bicycle collision), you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum can investigate your case and build a strong claim on your behalf. Schedule a consultation by calling our Brooklyn office at (718) 237-5586.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it illegal to ride a bike without a helmet in NYC?

New York law requires helmets for all cyclists under 14, and New York City requires them for commercial and delivery cyclists. Other adult riders are not legally required to wear one, but doing so is strongly recommended and can reduce the severity of a head injury.

Do you have to wear a helmet on an e-bike in New York?

Helmet rules vary by e-bike class and rider; commercial and delivery riders must wear one, and helmets are recommended for all e-bike riders given their higher speeds. When in doubt, wear a helmet.

Is it illegal to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk in NYC?

You can only ride on the sidewalk if a posted sign explicitly allows it. The only exception is for children 12 years old and younger who are riding bikes with wheels smaller than 26 inches.

What should I do after a bicycle accident in NYC?

Get medical care immediately (even if you feel fine), document the scene and the driver’s information, avoid admitting fault, and contact our Brooklyn law office before speaking with insurers.

Who is liable for a NYC bicycle accident?

Often the at-fault driver, but liability can also involve a vehicle owner, an employer, or a government entity responsible for a dangerous road condition. The Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum can assist with your case.

Don’t Face Insurance Companies Alone. Call a Brooklyn Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Call (718) 237-5586 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer.

How a UPS Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You in New York

Posted on February 17, 2023 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

How a UPS Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You in New York

UPS drivers are hard at work in New York City, delivering packages daily to residents and businesses. While these professional drivers are trained to drive safely and efficiently, accidents involving UPS trucks still occur, often resulting in severe injuries and significant vehicle damage.

Here’s what you need to know about UPS truck accidents and how a delivery truck accident attorney can help you.

Causes of UPS Truck Accidents

UPS trucks are much larger than the average vehicle on New York City streets, making them more challenging to navigate around. These trucks have large blind spots, especially when driving down narrow or busy streets. UPS truck accidents can happen for several reasons, including:

Cargo shifting inside the truck.
Trailers swaying into adjacent lanes.
Large blind spots that make lane changes difficult.
Distracted driving, such as texting or checking directions.
Bad weather conditions.
Failure to perform necessary safety checks or maintain the truck.
Fatigue or intoxicated driving.
Failure to obey traffic laws.

Proving That a UPS Driver Caused Your Injuries

If you are involved in a collision with a UPS truck, you may be able to file a claim against the driver, the UPS company, or other parties. To win a case, it is usually necessary to prove that the UPS driver was negligent or reckless while driving. This is where an experienced delivery truck accident lawyer becomes essential, helping to gather and use evidence to build a strong case.

These cases can be complex, but at the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we work diligently to seek fair compensation for our clients. We investigate the details of the accident to determine who was at fault, how the accident caused your injuries, and how much compensation you are entitled to for your suffering.

When to Hire a UPS Truck Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a UPS truck accident, it is important to reach out to a UPS truck accident attorney as soon as possible. At the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we represent clients injured in UPS truck accidents, FedEx accidents, and other commercial vehicle accidents.

When facing major corporations like UPS, it’s crucial to have legal support, as these companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Don’t be intimidated by going up against a large corporation. We will be with you every step of the way, from your initial free consultation to the final resolution of your case.

To discuss your UPS truck accident and explore your legal options, contact us today at 718-237-5586 or fill out our online form.

Can a School Bus Accident Lawyer Help After Child Injuries?

Posted on October 19, 2022 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Legal Help After Your Child Is Injured in a School Bus Accident

School buses provide a trusted and safe way for children to travel to and from school. However, road accidents can still happen, and when they do, the consequences can be devastating for children and their families.

When a child is injured on a school bus, they may face extensive medical treatment, emotional trauma, and missed school. During this challenging time, a school bus accident lawyer can help families know their legal rights and pursue all available compensation.

Common Causes of School Bus Accidents

Bus accidents occur for many of the same reasons as other types of motor vehicle accidents. Driver negligence is a leading cause of school bus accidents. Speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, and failure to follow traffic laws can all contribute to bus collisions.

Meanwhile, other school bus accidents occur when children aren’t properly supervised during loading and unloading. School bus stops pose heightened challenges, especially when drivers ignore stop-arm laws and fail to yield to children crossing the street. Mechanical failures may also occur if a bus is poorly maintained or if routine inspections are not performed.

What Makes School Bus Accidents Unique

Unlike typical car accidents, school bus accidents often involve multiple responsible parties. For example, liability could fall on the bus driver, a private transportation company, a government agency, a school district, or another motorist.

These types of cases often require a detailed investigation to determine what happened and who may be responsible. To prove a case, accident reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, driver training records, and bus maintenance records can all serve as evidence.

How a School Bus Accident Lawyer Can Help

After a child is injured, parents, of course, focus on medical appointments and helping the child recover. Meanwhile, a NYC bus accident lawyer can step in to handle all the legal aspects of the case so the family can prioritize healing.

A school bus accident lawyer can help with:

Gathering evidence and documentation
Investigating the cause of the accident
Identifying all potentially liable parties
Communicating with insurance companies
Evaluating the full extent of the damages
Negotiating settlement offers
Filing a lawsuit if necessary

Every case is unique; however, having an experienced school bus accident lawyer on your side can protect a family’s interests every step of the way.

Possible Compensation Available

If a child suffers injuries due to a school bus accident, compensation may be available for both current and future needs. Potential damages your family may be entitled to include:

Medical expenses
Ongoing treatment and rehabilitation
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Future related medical care
Permanent disability or impairment

When to Contact a School Bus Accident Attorney

We recommend contacting a school bus accident lawyer as soon as possible if your child has been injured while riding on a school bus. Your cases may require that evidence be preserved, witness interviews be conducted, and statute-of-limitations deadlines be met.

At the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum, we will meticulously evaluate the facts of your case, discuss your legal options, and help you determine the best path forward. We provide compassionate, dedicated representation for families and will fight for your child’s rights and health.

Of course, no legal claim can reverse the trauma of an accident. However, pursuing justice may provide the financial resources you need to support your child’s recovery and future well-being.

For your free case review, please contact us online or call us at 718-237-5586.

Drunk Driving Pedestrian Accidents in NYC and Your Legal Rights

Posted on November 30, 2020 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Legal Options After a Drunk Driver Hits a Pedestrian in NYC

Did you know that slightly more than one-third of fatal traffic crashes in New York involve alcohol in an average year?
Drunk driving is a serious problem in New York City, not only because of automobile collisions, but also because of the sheer number of pedestrians on NYC streets at any given time. If a drunk driver hits a pedestrian, the injuries are often severe and life-changing. Understanding your legal rights after this type of accident can help you determine whether speaking with a pedestrian accident attorney is necessary.

How Drunk Driver and Pedestrian Accidents Happen

When a person drives under the influence of alcohol, their reaction time slows, and judgment is impaired, making it difficult to respond to unpredictable pedestrian activity. Under New York law, a driver may be considered legally impaired with a blood alcohol concentration above 0.05%, and legally intoxicated at 0.08% or higher.

Drunk drivers often strike pedestrians while they are crossing the street, whether inside a crosswalk or outside of one. In other cases, impaired drivers lose control and drive onto sidewalks, hitting pedestrians standing at street corners, waiting outside buildings, or walking along the curb. These accidents frequently occur at night and on weekends, when impaired driving is more common.

Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian injuries are often severe when a person on foot comes into contact with a motor vehicle. Broken bones are common, along with excessive bruising, internal injuries, and head trauma.

Traumatic brain injuries can have long-lasting consequences, including memory loss, cognitive impairment, and emotional changes. Victims suffering from concussions or more serious head injuries may need assistance from a traumatic brain injury lawyer who understands the long-term impact of these conditions.

Pedestrians are also frequently left with serious fractures to the arms, legs, hips, or ribs. In these cases, working with a bone fracture lawyer can help ensure the full scope of orthopedic injuries is considered when pursuing compensation.

Tragically, many pedestrians do not survive these accidents. In a recent year, more than 7,000 alcohol-related crashes in New York resulted in approximately 335 deaths statewide, highlighting the deadly consequences of impaired driving.

A Pedestrian’s Legal Rights After an Accident

A pedestrian who has been hit by a drunk driver has the legal right to file a lawsuit against the negligent driver. Driving while intoxicated is considered negligence under New York law, meaning the injured pedestrian may pursue compensation for damages.

If the collision results in death, a representative of the pedestrian’s estate may file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of surviving family members. An experienced drunk driving accident attorney in NYC can help investigate the accident, gather evidence of intoxication, and build a strong claim.

New York’s Implied Consent Law also applies in these cases. Drivers are deemed to have consented to chemical testing of their blood, breath, urine, or saliva, and refusal results in automatic license suspension.

What Compensation May Be Available After a Drunk Driving Accident

Because injuries in drunk driving pedestrian accidents are often extensive, victims may be entitled to substantial compensation. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.

While medical bills may be straightforward to calculate, non-economic damage such as emotional trauma, loss of quality of life, and future limitations is more complex. This is why working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney is so important.

The Role of Auto Insurance

Another important factor in drunk driving pedestrian cases is the insurance coverage available. In many cases, compensation comes from the driver’s auto insurance policy rather than directly from the driver.

If coverage is limited or nonexistent, recovering full compensation can be challenging. In these situations, guidance from an auto accident lawyer can help identify all available sources of recovery and maximize compensation.

Get Help After a Drunk Driver Pedestrian Accident in NYC

If you or someone you love has been injured after a drunk driver hit a pedestrian, the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum can help. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take and are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process.

Call us 24/7 at 718-237-5586 or contact us online to have our Brooklyn legal team review your case and explain your legal options.

What Are the Main Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

Posted on August 28, 2020 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Automobile crashes are all too common in New York, but pedestrians are especially vulnerable because no human body can withstand the force of a vehicle barreling towards it. Pedestrian-related accidents can be the fault of the driver, pedestrian, both, or another party, but no matter who’s at fault, the results can be devastating for a person on foot.

Here are the main causes of pedestrian accidents so that you can be aware of these common situations and avoid and deal with them accordingly.

Left Turns

Left turns are problematic because drivers and pedestrians are looking in different directions when they occur. Drivers are typically looking at the intersection while pedestrians are looking straight ahead, which means they may not see each other in time.

Not Crossing at Crosswalks

Jaywalking, or walking across the part of a street without a designated crosswalk, is a common reason why pedestrians get hit. Intersections are common accident spots, but simply using a crosswalk makes an accident far less likely.

Distracted Drivers or Pedestrians

Modern technology has made roadway situations less safe for both drivers and pedestrians. Both groups of road users commonly try to multitask, whether it’s by texting, changing music stations, looking up directions, or otherwise using a mobile device.

Alcohol Use

Drunk driving is a common cause of pedestrian accidents because alcohol impairs a driver’s judgement and affects reaction time. However, pedestrians under the influence of alcohol also make poor decisions about when to cross streets and can become reckless in the middle of roadways to cause accidents too.

Wearing Dark, Non-Reflective Clothing

Pedestrians who wear dark colored clothing are more likely to be hit by cars who cannot see them well at night. This is why runners and walkers should wear reflective gear after sunset to make themselves more visible to drivers.

Rolling Stops

Pedestrian accidents occur frequently when a driver fails to come to a full stop at a red light or stop sign, choosing to roll through the traffic signal instead. This commonly happens when drivers are in a hurry and don’t look for pedestrians while trying to rush through an intersection.

Speeding Drivers

People who drive above the speed limit put pedestrians at a higher risk because it is harder to stop quickly in a vehicle when you are traveling at a high speed. A driver can be held liable for an auto accident due to speeding even if a pedestrian was negligent while crossing a street.

Get Help with Your Pedestrian Accident Case

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum can help. Due to the complexity and severity of these types of accidents, you need a reliable and knowledgeable Brooklyn personal injury lawyer on your side to get the compensation you deserve.

To learn more and for a free consultation, call us 24/7 at 718-237-5586 or send us a message online.

Evidentiary Standards and the Burden of Proof in New York

Posted on August 19, 2020 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

In New York, plaintiffs bear the burden of proof in personal injury cases, which means that they must prove that the defendant was at fault for the accident and injuries. In general, evidentiary standards are typically preponderance of the evidence or clear and convincing evidence for civil cases and proof beyond a reasonable doubt for criminal cases. This article looks at the evidentiary standards in New York and how the burden of proof applies to cases pursued in our state.

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How is COVID-19 Impacting Court Cases in New York?

Posted on June 3, 2020 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Over the past few months, COVID-19 (coronavirus) has been affecting nearly every aspect of daily life, including the legal system. There is now a distinction between “essential” and “non-essential” court functions, while social distancing protocols have changed the way that judges, attorneys, and clients interact with each other.

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How to Handle Pedestrian Car Accidents in Brooklyn

Posted on August 21, 2019 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

How to Handle a Pedestrian Hit by a Car in Brooklyn

Brooklyn is one of the most walkable boroughs in New York City, with residents relying heavily on foot traffic for commuting, errands, and daily life. While walkability is a major benefit, it also puts pedestrians at risk when drivers are distracted, speeding, or fail to follow traffic laws. A pedestrian hit by a car in Brooklyn often suffers serious injuries that can change their life in an instant.

Understanding what to do after a pedestrian car accident and knowing when to contact a pedestrian accident lawyer in NYC can make a critical difference in protecting your health and legal rights. Many injured pedestrians benefit from speaking with a pedestrian accident attorney who understands how New York traffic laws apply to pedestrian injury claims.

Pedestrian Car Accident Trends in NYC and Brooklyn

New York City has made measurable progress in reducing traffic deaths under its Vision Zero initiative. According to the NYC Department of Transportation, NYC recorded 205 total traffic deaths in 2025, the fewest ever recorded, and a 31 percent decline since Vision Zero launched in 2014. Pedestrian fatalities citywide declined 9 percent, from 122 deaths in 2024 to 111 in 2025.

While this progress is encouraging, Brooklyn continues to experience a significant share of serious pedestrian collisions. In 2025, Brooklyn recorded 63 traffic fatalities, reflecting a more modest decline compared to other boroughs. Even as fatalities decrease, pedestrian injuries remain common across the city.

What to Do Immediately After Being Hit by a Car

Being hit by a car is a frightening experience, and many pedestrians feel shocked or disoriented afterward. Your first priority should always be your health. Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Pedestrian accidents often cause head injuries, spinal trauma, and broken bones, and symptoms may not appear immediately.

Prompt medical care is important because injuries like concussions or internal damage can worsen over time. If you are diagnosed with a head injury, working with a traumatic brain injury lawyer can help ensure the long-term impact is properly addressed. Serious fractures to the arms, legs, hips, or ribs are also common, and guidance from a bone fracture lawyer may be necessary when recovery is extensive.

Once you are safe, call the police and make sure an accident report is filed. Avoid discussing fault with the driver or any insurance company at the scene. If you are able, take photos of the accident scene and gather witness information.

As soon as possible, consider speaking with a pedestrian accident lawyer who understands how pedestrian cases are handled in Brooklyn and throughout New York City and can help protect your rights.

Making a Claim After a Pedestrian Accident

In many pedestrian accident cases, the driver is legally responsible for the injuries they cause. Drivers are often found at fault when a pedestrian is struck in a crosswalk or while crossing with the right of way. However, liability can become more complex if the pedestrian was jaywalking or if unsafe road conditions played a role.

In addition to claims against the driver, injured pedestrians may be able to pursue compensation against the City of New York if defective traffic signals, missing signage, or unsafe street design contributed to the crash. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can evaluate all potential sources of liability.

Who Pays Medical Bills After a Pedestrian Is Hit by a Car?

New York is a no-fault insurance state, which means a pedestrian injured by a motor vehicle may be entitled to no-fault benefits through the driver’s insurance policy. These benefits can help cover medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.

Because these claims often involve complex insurance issues, working with a Brooklyn auto accident lawyer can help ensure that all available coverage is identified and properly pursued.

Brooklyn Legal Help for Pedestrian Car Accidents

If you or someone you love was involved in a pedestrian car accident in Brooklyn, the Law Office of Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum can help. Our firm has extensive experience representing injured pedestrians and understands how NYC traffic laws, insurance rules, and liability issues affect these cases.

Call 718-237-5586 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation. Being hit by a car is a traumatic experience. Let us fight for your rights and help make Brooklyn a safer place to walk.

What to Expect Financially After a Personal Injury

Posted on September 27, 2018 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Every day, people get into accidents. They may slip and fall in a grocery store. They may take their medicine and suffer serious side effects. Some are injured by their doctor during surgery. Many get into serious car accidents and see their lives changed forever.

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Traumatic Brain Injuries Caused by Roofing Accidents

Posted on May 24, 2018 by Jeffrey K. Kestenbaum

Construction is one of the most dangerous job industries. There are so many elements involved, such as electricity, heights, tools and machinery. One of the most dangerous is heights, particularly roofing. Working on a roof is no easy task, especially when inclement weather is involved. One of the biggest concerns for roofers is traumatic brain injuries.

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