Riding a bicycle in New Jersey is just as dangerous as getting behind the wheel of a car, according to the state’s Department of Transportation.
In order to avoid bicycle accidents in New Jersey, riders must know the rules of the road, be confident in their biking skills, and remain as vigilant on the road as they would if they were behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. Even following these basic rules isn’t always enough to avoid a crash. Learn everything you need to know about biking in Essex County and New Jersey state, how to avoid accidents, and what to do if you do get involved in one below.
The Many Benefits of Biking
Are you wondering why more New Jersey residents are riding bikes? Biking is becoming more popular as the many benefits of the sport are gaining recognition. Here are a few of the many benefits of bike riding:
- Increased heart health
- Decreased stress
- Great for the environment
- Improved posture
- Saves money (gas) when compared to traditional forms of transportation
The downside is that more bicyclists share the roads with cars. But who’s to blame when a bicycle accident occurs?
Bicycle Accidents: Negligence is the Top Cause
Like all things worth doing, bicycle riding isn’t risk-free. Every time you ride your bike, you run the risk of getting injured by falling off, running into something, or getting struck by someone else. The number one cause of bicycle accidents is negligence. The law defines negligence as failing to uphold your duty of care towards others. Bikers and motorists both have a legal duty to provide for the care of everyone else on the road. If someone’s negligence causes a crash, then they’re often held legally liable for the resulting damages.
Common Injuries After Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents are so dangerous because the biker often gets thrown from the bike at a fairly high speed. Bicycle riders often experience significant scrapes and abrasions from scraping against the roadway, sidewalk, or concrete. Some of the most commonly reported injuries include:
- Facial and dental injuries
- TBIs
- Broken bones
- Fractures, strains, sprains
- Road rash
Bicycle injuries can range from minor to life-altering. If you’ve been injured when cycling, you may be entitled to compensation.
When to Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Were you recently involved in a bicycle accident that you believe was someone else’s fault? Are you struggling to recover from an injury, dealing with property damage, and even missing time off of work? If you notice that your losses are stacking up or you know that your physical recovery will take a long time, then it makes sense to consult with a personal injury law firm.
If a motorist causes a bike accident due to negligence in New Jersey, then they could be held liable for any losses you endure. Since New Jersey is a no-fault state, you’ll first turn to your insurance company for compensation. If your policy doesn’t cover all your losses, then it might make the most sense to pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
Bicycle Accidents in New Jersey: What to Do After a Crash
Bicycle accidents in New Jersey are on the rise, in part because the number of residents riding their bikes is also increasing. Due to the plethora of benefits bike riding provides, there’s a great chance that we’ll continue to see a growing biking population in Newark, Woodbridge, and throughout New Jersey.
If you were recently involved in a bike accident, you think someone else’s negligence was the cause, and your losses are adding up, then you know it’s time to consult with a personal injury lawyer. You can lean on our experience, knowledge, and expertise here at the Law Office of Peter Briskin. Fill out this accident form to get in touch today. Consultations are free, and the firm is only paid if we win you compensation.