Passaic is a vibrant city where biking is not just a mode of transportation but also a popular way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. Whether cycling to work, taking a scenic ride, or just out for exercise, you deserve to feel safe on the road. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are an all-too-common occurrence, leaving riders with serious injuries and unexpected medical expenses. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, you need an experienced Passaic bicycle accident lawyer to protect your rights. At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., our dedicated team is committed to helping injured cyclists recover the compensation they deserve.
The Growing Concern of Bicycle Accidents in New Jersey
Biking is a popular activity in Passaic, with many residents using bicycles for commuting, exercise, and recreation. However, with the increase in cycling comes a rise in accidents. In 2021, 23 cyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents statewide, and many more suffered serious injuries. Urban areas like Passaic see a higher risk due to heavy traffic, distracted drivers, and inadequate bike lanes. Cyclists should be able to enjoy the city without fear of reckless drivers or dangerous road conditions, but the reality is that accidents happen all too often.
Causas comunes de los accidentes de bicicleta
While cycling is an excellent way to get around, it also comes with risks. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents include:
- Conducción distraída. Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment systems may fail to see cyclists.
- Failure to yield. Many accidents occur at intersections when motorists fail to yield to cyclists.
- Dooring accidents. A cyclist can suffer severe injuries when a driver or passenger suddenly opens a car door into their path.
- Poor road conditions. Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris can make biking hazardous.
- Speeding and reckless driving. Excessive speed reduces reaction time, making it more difficult for drivers to avoid hitting cyclists.
A Passaic bicycle accident attorney can help you pursue justice and compensation if you suffered an injury due to a driver’s negligence.
Understanding New Jersey Bicycle Laws and Liability
New Jersey law treats bicyclists as equal to motor vehicle drivers, meaning they must adhere to the same traffic laws. However, they also benefit from specific legal protections.
Key New Jersey bicycle laws incluyen:
- Helmet requirements. Riders under 17 must wear a properly fitted helmet, while adult cyclists are strongly encouraged to wear one for safety.
- Safe passing law. Motorists must maintain at least four feet of distance when overtaking a cyclist and pass with due caution.
- Traffic law compliance. Cyclists must obey all traffic signals, stop signs, and lane markings.
- Visibility requirements. Bicycles must have a front white light and a rear red reflector for visibility in low-light conditions.
- Riding position. Cyclists should ride as far to the right as practicable, except when making turns or avoiding hazards.
When drivers ignore these rules, it puts cyclists in danger. A Passaic bicycle accident lawyer can help determine how these laws impact your case and build a strong claim for compensation, even if you were partially at fault.
Understanding Comparative Negligence in Bicycle Accidents
Even if a cyclist makes a mistake, it does not necessarily mean they forfeit their right to seek compensation. New Jersey follows a negligencia comparativa modificada system. If a cyclist is found to be not more than 50% responsible for an accident, their compensation may be reduced. This is critical in bicycle accident cases because insurance companies and opposing parties may try to place excessive blame on the cyclist to reduce their liability.
For example, if a distracted driver hits a cyclist while not using a designated bike lane, the driver’s negligence may still outweigh the cyclist’s actions. A skilled attorney can help present evidence proving the driver’s primary fault and help ensure the cyclist does not receive unfair blame for the accident.
Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims
If you were injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses such as emergency treatment, surgeries, therapy, and ongoing medical care. If you cannot work due to the accident, you may receive compensation for missed wages and reduced earning capacity due to injuries. Additionally, you can receive funds for any property damaged in the accident.
The impact of a serious accident is often more than just financial. Your Passaic bicycle accident lawyer may also consider pursuing compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. An experienced law firm can assess your case and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
How Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., Can Help You Navigate Liability and Insurance Challenges
Determining liability in a bicycle accident can be complex, especially when insurance companies attempt to shift blame onto the cyclist. Insurers often try to minimize payouts by arguing that the cyclist was acting negligently, even when the driver was primarily at fault. A Passaic bicycle accident law firm can counter these tactics by:
- Gathering evidence, including traffic camera footage and witness statements;
- Working with accident reconstruction experts to establish fault;
- Challenging insurance company determinations that unfairly place blame on the cyclist; and
- Negotiating aggressively to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
Having a lawyer on your side ensures that you are not wrongly held responsible and that insurance providers do not take advantage of you.
Contact a Passaic Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Cycling should be a safe and enjoyable activity in Passaic. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact the talented attorneys at Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., for a free consultation. Let us fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve so you can get back on the road with confidence.