Cycling has become an increasingly popular way to travel throughout New York City. With expanded bike lanes, growing commuter use, and more residents choosing bicycles for transportation and recreation, the number of cyclists on city streets continues to increase.
However, more bicycles on the road also means more opportunities for serious accidents. Cyclists remain vulnerable when sharing streets with cars, trucks, buses, and other vehicles. Even when a cyclist follows traffic laws, negligent drivers and unsafe roadway conditions can lead to devastating injuries.
If you were injured while cycling in New York City, understanding your legal rights can help you make informed decisions about seeking compensation.
Common Causes of NYC Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons, but many are caused by driver negligence or unsafe conditions.
Common causes include:
Drivers Failing to Yield
Motorists may fail to recognize cyclists at intersections, crosswalks, or bike lane crossings. Failure to yield can result in severe collisions.
Distracted Driving
Drivers using phones, adjusting navigation systems, or otherwise failing to pay attention may not see a cyclist until it is too late.
Unsafe Turns
Right-turn and left-turn accidents are common causes of bicycle injuries. A driver who turns without checking for cyclists may strike someone traveling through an intersection or bike lane.
Dooring Accidents
When a driver or passenger opens a vehicle door into the path of an approaching cyclist, the cyclist may be thrown from the bicycle and suffer serious injuries.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Potholes, poorly maintained bike lanes, construction areas, and other hazards can contribute to bicycle crashes.
Common Injuries From Bicycle Accidents
Because cyclists have little protection during a collision, injuries can be severe.
Common bicycle accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Broken bones and fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Shoulder and knee injuries
- Internal injuries
- Road rash and severe abrasions
- Permanent disabilities
A helmet may reduce certain risks, but it cannot prevent all injuries caused by a serious crash.
New York Bicycle Laws and Accident Claims
Cyclists in New York have rights and responsibilities under state and local traffic laws. A driver’s failure to respect those rights may create the basis for a personal injury claim.
Bicycle accident claims often involve questions such as:
- Who had the right of way?
- Was the driver distracted or speeding?
- Did a vehicle enter a bike lane improperly?
- Did unsafe road conditions contribute to the accident?
- Were multiple parties responsible?
Determining liability requires a careful review of the facts and available evidence.
What Should You Do After a NYC Bicycle Accident?
After a bicycle accident, consider taking the following steps:
Seek medical attention. Some injuries, including head and spinal injuries, may not immediately appear serious.
Report the accident. A police report can provide important details about the crash.
Take photographs. Capture your bicycle, injuries, vehicle damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
Collect witness information. Statements from people who saw the accident can help establish what happened.
Preserve evidence. Keep your bicycle, damaged equipment, medical records, and other documentation.