New York Bicycle Accident Lawyers
With over a half million New Yorkers riding bikes and the number of cyclists on the rise, the chances of being involved in a bicycle accident in New York City are growing. The New York City Department of Transportation encourages and promotes commuter cycling as an alternative to automobiles and even its own subways and buses. Moreover, many workers in the city, such as couriers, delivery workers, and other professionals, rely on bicycles for their daily jobs. This rise in cycling signifies a critical need for awareness about bicyclists’ rights and responsibilities on the road, along with heightened safety measures to protect them from accidents.
Common Dangers Bikers Face on the Road
Like motorcycle riders, bicyclists are exposed and vulnerable to serious injury or wrongful death from collisions with vehicles. However, cyclists are even more at risk due to their smaller size and lack of protective barriers. Bicycles offer less protection than motorcycles, and cyclists generally wear less protective clothing. Bicycles are also smaller and quieter, making them harder to notice for drivers, especially in busy urban environments. Poor infrastructure, such as lack of dedicated bike lanes or unclear signage, exacerbates the danger cyclists face, putting them at higher risk of accidents.
An aggressive driver may not realize there is a bicycle ahead, which can lead to serious accidents. Urban areas, with high traffic volumes and numerous distractions for drivers, often pose additional hazards for cyclists. Another danger for cyclists includes road defects such as potholes and debris blown onto the road by construction sites or weather conditions. Bicycles, being more sensitive to small changes in road conditions, have less maneuverability than motorbikes. Like all road users, cyclists must follow traffic laws and adopt safe cycling practices, including using reflective gear to increase visibility, especially during evening rides or poor weather conditions.
Bike maintenance is usually the owner's responsibility, but business owners may be responsible for employees' bikes when used for work. Even with proper care, equipment failure can occur if the bike is manufactured defectively or improperly assembled. Moreover, regular checks and maintenance by certified professionals can prevent unforeseen failures. Driver negligence, road defects, and product issues can all factor into an accident. It's crucial to hire a bicycle accident attorney who understands the importance of a thorough investigation to achieve financial recovery.
New York Bicycle Laws & Safety
Cyclists in New York must be aware of specific state and local laws to ensure their safety. New York law requires all cyclists to obey traffic signals and ride in the same direction as traffic. Cyclists under 14 years are mandated to wear helmets, and it's strongly recommended for adults as well. Knowing these regulations can help prevent accidents and ensure liability is clear if an accident occurs. In addition, cyclists should be aware of designated bike lanes and paths. While road users are required to share the road, cyclists can face fines if caught riding outside of these areas where they are available. Understanding these rules is crucial for both safety and legal standing in case of an incident.
To have your personal injury and real estate issues resolved contact Jose Polanco Esq. or one of the members at Polanco & Associates PLLC for a free consultation.