Bicycling is an excellent mode of transportation and recreation, but when accidents occur, the consequences can be severe. A bicycle crash can leave victims with catastrophic injuries, medical expenses, and a long road to recovery. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a negligent driver or hazardous road conditions, you may be entitled to compensation. With the help of a Hackensack bicycle accident lawyer at Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., injured cyclists can seek justice and financial recovery through a personal injury claim.
With over 30 years of combined experience, our legal team understands the unique challenges cyclists face in injury claims. We work tirelessly to investigate accidents, negotiate with insurance companies, and, when necessary, take cases to trial to secure the compensation our clients deserve.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Hackensack
Bicycle accidents can happen due to various factors, including:
- Distracted driving,
- Failure to yield,
- Dooring accidents,
- Speeding or reckless driving,
- Poorly maintained roads,
- Lack of bike lanes,
- Defective bicycle parts, and
- Low visibility due to poor lighting.
Understanding the common causes of bicycle accidents can help prevent future crashes and protect cyclists from harm.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bicycle Accident?
Liability in bicycle accident cases can involve multiple parties. Here are some common at-fault parties our attorneys see.
Negligent Drivers
Motorists who fail to follow traffic laws or drive recklessly can be held responsible for causing a bicycle accident. Speeding, distracted driving, and failing to yield to cyclists are common causes of crashes. Holding drivers accountable ensures safer roads for cyclists and other road users.
Government Entities
If a poorly maintained road, missing signage, or lack of designated bike lanes contributed to the accident, the government agency responsible for road maintenance may be held accountable. However, claims against government entities must follow strict filing deadlines. Seeking legal guidance can help victims navigate these complex cases effectively.
Bicycle Manufacturers
Defective bike frames, faulty brakes, or malfunctioning components can lead to accidents. If a defective part contributed to your crash, the manufacturer or retailer may be liable under New Jersey’s product liability laws. Ensuring defective products are identified and addressed can prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
Property Owners
Private property owners can be responsible if dangerous conditions, such as uneven pavement or hazardous obstructions, caused the accident. Premises liability laws allow injured cyclists to hold property owners accountable for certain hazards. Investigating the conditions that contributed to the accident is crucial in establishing liability.
Identifying the responsible parties is a critical step in seeking compensation. An experienced Hackensack bike accident lawyer can help you determine who should be held accountable for your injuries.
Compensation Available in a Bicycle Accident Claim
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses. This includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and any long-term medical care needed for recovery. Securing compensation for medical costs helps ensure that victims receive the treatment they need without financial strain.
- Lost wages and future earning potential. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost wages. If the accident causes long-term disabilities, you may also recover damages for reduced earning potential.
- Pain and suffering. Beyond financial losses, victims can recover damages for emotional distress, physical pain, and the overall impact on their quality of life.
- Property damage. Bicycles and safety gear can be expensive. Compensation to repair or replace damaged property can help victims resume their daily activities.
- Wrongful death damages. Families who lose a loved one in a bicycle accident may pursue wrongful death claims, seeking damages for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering. Holding negligent parties accountable can provide a sense of justice and closure.
- Punitive damages. Plaintiffs can receive punitive damages if the defendant acted with malice or willful disregard for others’ safety. Punitive damages aim to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior.
Pursuing full and fair compensation can be a complex process, but a Hackensack bicycle injury lawyer can help advocate for your rights and maximize your financial recovery.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Hackensack
If you are involved in a bicycle accident, take the following steps to help protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, seeing a doctor helps prevent complications and establish medical documentation. Delaying medical treatment can negatively impact your compensation claim.
- Call the police. A police report provides essential accident details that help establish liability in an injury claim. Officers can also document witness statements and traffic conditions.
- Document the scene. If safe to do so, take photos of injuries, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any other relevant evidence. Visual evidence is critical in proving fault and damages.
- Collect contact information. Get the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of the driver involved, as well as any witnesses who saw the accident. Witness testimony can strengthen your case.
- Preserve evidence. Keep your damaged bicycle, helmet, and clothing, as they may serve as crucial evidence in your case. Avoid repairing or discarding damaged items until after consulting an attorney.
- Avoid discussing fault. Refrain from admitting blame or making statements to insurance companies without consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters may use your words against you.
- Speak with an attorney. A Hackensack bicycle accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurers, and pursue full compensation for your damages. Getting legal guidance early can make a significant difference in your case outcome.
Taking these steps can strengthen your claim and improve your chances of securing fair compensation.
Why Choose Our Hackensack Bicycle Accident Attorneys?
Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, and when a collision occurs, injuries can be life-changing. Choosing the right attorney is crucial for protecting your rights and maximizing compensation. At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we provide:
- Extensive experience. We have a long track record of successfully representing injured cyclists in Hackensack and throughout New Jersey.
- Aggressive advocacy. We do not settle for less than what you deserve and are always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
- Personalized attention. Our attorneys handle every case directly, ensuring you receive dedicated legal support at every stage.
- No upfront costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
If you have suffered injuries in a cycling accident, our Hackensack bicycle accident law firm is ready to fight for you. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in your recovery.
Contact an Experienced Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, you need a legal team that understands the complexities of these claims. At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we are committed to securing justice and financial recovery for injured cyclists in Hackensack and across New Jersey. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Hackensack bicycle accident lawyer and learn more.