At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we understand the devastating impact a bicycle accident can have on your life. You deserve justice and compensation if you were injured due to a careless driver, hazardous road conditions, or another party’s negligence. Our team of experienced Union City bike accident lawyers is here to provide you with the guidance and legal representation you need.
With over two decades of expertise, we fight fiercely to protect your rights and pursue the highest possible compensation for your injuries. Contact us and speak to a Union City bicycle accident lawyer today to learn how we can help.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
A bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience, but taking the proper steps afterward can significantly impact your ability to pursue a successful claim. Here are the key actions you should take after a bike accident.
1. Seek Medical Attention
Your health should always be your priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. A medical professional will assess your condition and provide the documentation needed for your claim.
2. Report the Accident
Call the police and have them create a report. Having an official record of the accident is crucial for your case. The police report will be an essential piece of evidence when proving liability in your claim.
3. Document the Scene
If you can, take photos of the scene, including your bike, any damages, the position of vehicles, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Collect the names and contact information of witnesses who saw the accident. This documentation can be vital when establishing fault.
4. Avoid Admitting Fault
Even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident, avoid making any statements that suggest you were at fault. Any admission of fault can be used against you later in the legal process.
5. Contact an Experienced Union City Bicycle Accident Lawyer
At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., our Union City bike accident lawyers are ready to guide you through the claims process. We can help you gather the necessary evidence, investigate the cause of the accident, and build a strong case on your behalf.
How Do I Prove My Cycling Accident Claim?
In order to bring a successful cycling accident claim, you need to prove that someone else’s negligence was the cause of your injuries. You must provide evidence establishing the four elements of negligence:
- Duty of care. The responsible party must have had a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid causing harm.
- Breach of Duty. The responsible party must have failed to meet this duty.
- Causation. You must prove that the breach of duty directly caused your injuries.
- Damages. You need to prove that you suffered damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses due to the accident.
Proving these elements can be complex, but our team of Union City bicycle accident attorneys is well-equipped to handle these cases and advocate for the compensation you deserve.
Why Do I Need a Bike Wreck Lawyer?
After a bicycle accident, you may want to handle the situation alone or rely on insurance companies to offer fair compensation. However, working with a qualified bike wreck lawyer is essential for several reasons.
Insurance Companies Will Take Advantage of You
Insurance companies prioritize their bottom line, not your well-being. They may try to pressure you into accepting a low settlement or even deny your claim altogether. An experienced cycling accident lawyer will fight to ensure you get the compensation you need to recover.
Complex Legal Process
New Jersey’s laws surrounding bicycle accidents and personal injury claims can be complex. An attorney will help you navigate the intricacies of the legal system, including gathering evidence, negotiating settlements, and filing all necessary paperwork.
Statute of Limitations
In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of your bicycle accident to file a personal injury claim. This deadline is strict. If you miss it, you could lose your right to pursue compensation. Having a lawyer on your side ensures you meet all deadlines and file your case within the required time frame.
What If I Am Partially Responsible for the Bicycle Accident?
If you believe you may have been partially at fault for the bicycle accident, it’s critical to understand that you may still be eligible to recover compensation for your injuries. New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means that even if you share some responsibility for the accident, you can still pursue a claim against the other party. However, the amount you receive will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
For example, if you are 20% at fault, your compensation could be reduced by 20%. You do not lose your ability to recover, but your share of the fault is taken into account when calculating damages.
Finally, recovery is only permitted if your negligence is not greater than that of the other parties involved. If you are 60% at fault, you will not be able to recover compensation because your share of the fault (60%) is greater than the fault of other parties (40%).
Contact Us Now and Speak to One of Our Union City Bicycle Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been in a bicycle accident in Union City, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C., we stand ready to advocate for your rights and guide you through the legal process with the same care and dedication we would offer our family.
Our Union City bike accident lawyers are committed to thoroughly investigating the circumstances of your accident, gathering the necessary evidence, and fighting aggressively for the compensation you deserve. We’ll ensure you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies and will work relentlessly to hold all negligent parties accountable.
Don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice you deserve.