Whether bicycling for fun, exercise, or environmentally friendly and healthy transportation, bicyclists still face risks while on the streets.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, bicyclist fatalities increased by 9% in 2020. If injured in an accident, you likely have questions regarding compensation and the steps to take.
1. What should I do right after the incident?
Like with any accident, always call 911 and seek medical attention. If possible, document the scene and get contact information from witnesses. Taking these steps ensures that your case starts off with the proper documentation. After receiving medical care, maintain a log of your injuries and healing progress.
2. Will the driver’s insurance cover my losses?
New Jersey drivers must have liability insurance to cover the cost of an accident, whether it involves another motor vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. These policies typically cover the associated medical expenses and potentially lost wages. Unfortunately, they often come with limitations or low-balled settlements. When an accident involves a bicyclist, the chances increase for more severe injuries. Some may even turn into a chronic condition, which means one small settlement likely will not truly compensate you.
3. What factors play into proving liability?
Bicyclists must also follow the rules of the road. If you responsibly rode your bike and a motor vehicle did not follow the rules, they have liability for your injuries. While that seems simple, filing a claim will require proving the driver did not adhere to traffic laws and drove irresponsibly. Additionally, causation factors in. You will have to prove that the driver’s disregard for driving safely directly caused the accident.
Accidents can happen anytime. If one does, taking action now may help ease the healing process.