If you or your loved one was hit by a car riding a bike in New Jersey, you do not have to go through it alone. Our attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process so you can spend more time focusing on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation: 201-699-5070
The shock of being hit by a car while on your bike is not just painful—it’s frightening. At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we understand how quickly a casual bike ride can turn into a critical situation, and we’re here to help you through it. If you were hit by a car on your bike, this post can help walk you through what to do. Knowing the appropriate steps to take can ensure your safety and position you to pursue a potential claim for damages.
What to do If You Were Hit By a Car on a Bike
The following are steps you should take if you were riding your bike and got hit by a car:
- Get to Safety and Asses Your Injuries
- Call 911
- Document the Scene
- Contact Your Insurance Company
- Talk to an Attorney
Ensure Your Safety and Assess Injuries
The first priority after getting hit by a car on a bike is to ensure your safety. Move your bicycle to a safe location away from further traffic hazards. Assess yourself for injuries; however, do not self-diagnose—some injuries might not be visibly apparent. Call 911 or ask someone to do it for you. Getting a professional medical evaluation as soon as possible is crucial. It addresses your health concerns and serves as an important record for any legal actions.
Report the Accident to the Police
It’s essential to report the accident to the police immediately, especially if the driver flees the scene. A police report provides an official account of the incident, which is invaluable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing a lawsuit. Ensure you get the report number so you can order a copy for your records.
Document the Accident Scene
Gather as much information as possible at the scene. That includes taking photos of your bicycle, the vehicle that hit you, any visible injuries, and overall road conditions. Exchange information with the driver involved, such as their name, contact details, and insurance information. Also, try to obtain contact information from witnesses. Their accounts may support your claim later.
Put Your Insurance Company on Notice
Inform the insurance company about the bicycle accident as soon as you can. New Jersey’s no-fault laws apply even if you are riding a bicycle. That means your first source of recovery is likely through your own PIP coverage. If your injuries meet the “serious injury” threshold, you can pursue a claim against the driver’s insurance company. Otherwise, you are limited to recovering medical expenses and lost wages.
Be cautious about the details you share, and do not admit fault or give detailed statements without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies are adept at minimizing payouts, and premature or misinterpreted statements could affect your compensation.
Consult an Attorney
Consulting with a bicycle accident attorney can significantly improve the outcome of your personal injury case. An experienced attorney will help you navigate the complexities of legal claims, deal with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected. Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. has years of experience representing severely injured victims in bicycle accidents and can offer the guidance needed to fight for fair compensation.
How Can I Claim for a Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident?
Unfortunately, not all drivers responsible for accidents remain at the scene. Hit-and-run incidents complicate personal injury claims, but not all hope is lost. If you were hit by a car on your bike and the driver fled, keep the following tips in mind:
- Try to gather any details of the fleeing vehicle. Even partial license plate numbers or a vehicle description can be extremely helpful.
- Look for surveillance cameras. Nearby businesses or traffic cameras might have recorded the incident.
- Inform the police and your attorney. Immediate reporting is crucial in hit-and-run accidents. The sooner the authorities and your attorney know about the incident, the better they can respond.
Filing a claim for a hit-and-run accident might seem daunting, but with the proper legal guidance, it is manageable. Your attorney can help you explore all avenues of recovery, including filing a claim against your uninsured motorist coverage if you have it. This coverage is part of many auto insurance policies and can be vital in hit-and-run cases. If you were riding your bike and got hit by a car, you don’t have to go through the legal process alone.
Contact a New Jersey Bicycle Attorney
Remember, the steps you take following a bicycle accident are critical in protecting your legal rights and ensuring you can claim the compensation you deserve. Do not navigate this challenging time alone. When you are hit by a car on your bike, contact Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. Let us put our decades of combined legal experience to work for you. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case and learn more about how we can assist you in achieving the best possible outcome after a New Jersey bicycle accident.
David Pierguidi and Jared Glugeth understand how hard it may be for you and your family following an accident resulting from someone’s negligent actions. Get the medical treatment you need right away and then call our law firm at any time of day for answers to your questions.
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