A bicycle accident can be devastating. Even a minor crash can cause severe injuries, including brain damage and loss of limbs. If you have been injured in a bike accident, it is important to consult with an experienced New York City bicycle injury lawyer. An attorney can explain your rights, make sure that you get the medical care you need and that you are compensated for your injuries.
Many people attempt to handle their injury claim on their own, with disastrous results. The law is complex and the insurance company’s goal is to pay as little as possible for your claim. A skilled New York bicycle accident injury lawyer can level the playing field and help you recover the money you need to live your life.
Getting hit by a car or truck while riding your bicycle is one of the most common causes of bike accidents in NYC. Fortunately, New York is a no-fault state, which means that you can file a claim for your medical expenses and other losses with the driver’s auto insurer without worrying about who was at fault for the crash. However, if the injury you suffered is more serious than the state’s “serious injury” threshold, or you need compensation beyond the available policy limits, it may be necessary to sue the at-fault driver directly.
The first step is to seek emergency medical attention. You should also try to collect as much information about the accident as possible while you are at the scene. This includes taking photos of the accident and gathering contact information from any witnesses. Be careful about what you say to police, investigators or insurance companies after a crash – anything you say could be used against you later. It is also a good idea to visit your doctor after the crash and follow his or her advice about how to recover from your injuries.
You can find a qualified New York bicycle accident lawyer through a number of sources. Some attorneys are referred by other lawyers or by local bar associations that have subject matter practice committees for specific areas of law. When you meet with potential attorneys, be sure to ask about their experience with bicycle accident cases and other types of personal injury claims.
Your bike accident attorney will be able to calculate the full extent of your losses, including both economic and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. This calculation requires the assistance of expert witnesses such as economists, life-care planners and vocational rehabilitation experts. It is important to be accurate and complete in this calculation so that you are adequately compensated for all of your present and future needs. You only have one chance to settle your case, and you don’t want to accept a settlement offer that is less than what you deserve. The experienced New York City bicycle injury lawyers at Mark Chalfin are prepared to put our skills and resources to work on your behalf.