In a busy place like New York City, bicycles are a popular—and sometimes faster—way to travel. Unfortunately, cycling your way from point A to point B can be hazardous says NYC Bicycle Accident Attorney.
According to a study published by the American Medical Association, injuries among cyclists have jumped sharply, especially among people over age 45. Between 1998 and 2013, bicycle injuries increased by 28 percent, and hospitalizations for bicycle accident injuries rose by a staggering 120 percent.
Most people don’t think “catastrophic injury” when they think of a bicycle accident. However, bicycle accidents involving cars and trucks more often than not lead to devastating injuries. When you consider that the average car weighs in at around 4,000 pounds, it’s easy to understand why these accidents are often catastrophic. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident in New York City or the surrounding areas, speak to a bicycle accident lawyer right away.
What to Do after a Bicycle Crash
The reality is that riding a bike means sharing the road with motor vehicles. With smartphone use continuing to rise, drivers are more distracted than ever before. Every time you get on your bike, you risk being involved in a crash. Knowing what to do after a collision can help you preserve your important legal rights.
Call the Police. Always report the accident, even if the driver speeds away from the scene. In a high-traffic area like New York City, there is a good chance the police will track down the motorist. You should also get a police report, as your insurance company will probably require one.
Take Photos. This is where your smartphone can be an invaluable asset. Use your phone to take photos of the scene, your bicycle, and your injuries. Obviously, you should only take pictures if your injuries permit it. If you are too hurt to take photos without further injuring yourself, ask someone else to take them, or wait until you get to the hospital to begin documenting your injuries.
Get Medical Help. You should always see a doctor after a bicycle crash, even if you assume you are uninjured. The reason is that some injuries aren’t immediately obvious. It may take a few hours or even days for aches and pains to really kick into high gear. Don’t compromise your health by delaying a trip to the doctor’s office.
Don’t Make Statements about Fault. Leave speculation about fault to the police and the accident investigators. If you inadvertently admit fault to the police or an insurance company representative, you could accidentally hurt your case.
New York City Bicycle Accident Law Firm
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, speak to an experienced New York bicycle accident lawyer right away. Call New York City bicycle accident lawyer, Jonathan C. Reiter, to get a free case evaluation today. You can reach us through our online contact form, or by calling 212-736-0979.
Jonathan C. Reiter Law Firm, PLLC
The Empire State Building
350 5th Avenue #6400
New York, NY 10118
T: (212) 736-0979
Source: Jonathan C. Reiter Law Firm, PLLC
