NJ Bicycle Accident Attorneys Represent Riders Injured in Collisions

Ridgewood firm helping bicycle accident victims recover damages since 1976

Riding a bicycle is a healthy, green alternative to traveling by car. Whether you’re riding through busy city streets or out enjoying some of North Jersey’s more picturesque areas, biking can be a beloved pastime and a competitive sport. Unfortunately, careless drivers present a risk to cyclists, and when a collision occurs, the resulting harm can be extensive. At Seigel Law in Ridgewood, we are accomplished injury lawyers who are dedicated to protecting the interests of clients throughout the area, including Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties. No matter what specifically led to your injury, our team will work diligently to help you collect the compensation you deserve.

Our commitment to bicycle riders

Our founding attorney, Jan K. Seigel, is an avid bicyclist and certified cycling instructor with the League of American Bicyclists — the oldest and largest bicycle organization in the country. He is a strong supporter of bicyclists’ rights to share the road with other vehicles. He has also written several articles about bicycling and the law.

Common causes of bicycle accidents

Various factors can trigger a serous bicycle accident, including:

  • Unsafe turns — Motorists who take a turn too quickly or don’t bother to check if a bicycle is in their path could end up sideswiping a cyclist or causing a rear-end collision.
  • Road hazards — Bicycle riders face a much greater risk from unsafe road conditions than people inside cars and trucks. Some accidents result directly from a hazard, while others occur because a cyclist must swerve unexpectedly to avoid an obstacle.
  • Distractions — Drivers might think that they can pay attention to their cell phone, food or some other distraction while maintaining sufficient focus on the road. However, it’s much harder for someone to see a bicycle out of the corner or their eye than it is to see another car.

Don’t give up your legal rights without discussing your options with a trustworthy personal injury lawyer. Even if you were partly at fault for the accident, you can still collect damages. No matter how complex the situation might seem, we’ll give you the clear counsel you need to make an informed decision on how to proceed.  

Common injuries from bicycle accidents

Almost any type of impact injury can occur when a bike rider is struck by a car or truck. Our firm understands how to collect the necessary medical and factual evidence to support clients’ claims relating to:

  • Broken bones
  • Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries
  • Internal organ damage
  • Ligament and muscle tears
  • Amputations
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Spinal cord damage, including paralysis

We understand the short- and long-term effects of these injuries and fight so that injured cyclists can receive a legal resolution that sufficiently addresses their current and future harm.

What to do after a bicycle accident

Even the safest cyclists can be hurt in a motor vehicle accident. If this occurs, you can take some simple actions that will make it easier to establish a successful legal claim. Once you’ve notified the necessary first responders, you can start to collect pertinent information as long as there is no immediate medical danger. This includes the driver’s contact details and auto insurance coverage. Photos and names of witnesses could be pivotal if a dispute exists over what occurred. Even if the negligent driver lacks insurance or flees the scene, you might be able to collect a recovery from your own insurer.

Why you need a lawyer for your bicycle accident claim

New Jersey law states that every person riding a bicycle on a roadway is granted all the rights of motor vehicle drivers. Still, it often takes a skillful personal injury attorney to secure reimbursement for medical bills, lost income and other damages resulting from the accident. From your first meeting, you can rely on us for honest counsel regarding your case and determined advocacy. We do everything possible to ease your burden. If your injuries prevent you from traveling to our office, we can meet in your home or hospital room. You owe us no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Contact a knowledgeable North Jersey bicycle accident lawyer for a free consultation

Seigel Law in Ridgewood represents victims of bicycle accidents and other types of vehicle collisions. Please call 201-444-4000 or contact us online to make an appointment for a free consultation. We serve clients from across North Jersey, including Bergen, Passaic, Essex and Hudson counties.