People ride their bicycles all over the state of New Jersey, for various reasons. Some people ride bicycles because they enjoy the workout, others use a bicycle for their daily commute, some enjoy riding leisurely, and some do all three! Cycling is healthy, far cheaper than driving, and is a great way to get some fresh air to start (or end) your day. Unfortunately, cycling, especially on main roads, can be very dangerous. Cyclists have very little protection from other motorists, and if they are hit, they are usually severely injured. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, there is a good chance you are entitled to financial compensation. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the most common types of bicycle accidents?
- Rear-end accidents: When motorists follow cyclists too closely or are distracted by texting, fatigue, or anything else, cyclists can get rear-ended. These accidents generally occur at stop signs or when a cyclist is moving left to move around parked cars.
- Dooring accidents: This is when a motorist opens his or her car door in a cyclist’s path. Drivers must always look before opening their car doors–they are legally responsible. If you are cycling and a car door opens, it may force you out into the road to avoid a nasty crash. However, rather obviously, it is not safe to be in the middle of the road, either.
- Side-swiping accidents: These generally occur when cyclists are driving to the left of the shoulder, sometimes not allowing cars sufficient room to overtake them. However, when a motorist gets impatient and tries to overtake a cyclist without sufficient room to do so, cyclists are sometimes hit.
- Right or left cross accidents: When a motorist crossing into a bicyclists path at an intersection is not paying attention, cyclists are often hit.
- Right side accidents: This occurs when a cyclist is to the right of a car at an intersection and is hooked by the vehicle turning right.
If you were injured due to another party’s negligence, you will most likely recover the compensation you need and deserve. However, you must first satisfy the burden of proof.
How do I prove another party’s negligence in a personal injury claim?
With the help of an experienced attorney, you may recover evidence, such as security camera footage, medical documentation, and witness testimony. It is crucial you establish enough concrete evidence of negligence to satisfy the burden of proof. Do yourself a favor and contact an attorney who is ready to tenaciously fight for your rights.
Contact our New Jersey firm
The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced defense attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. Please contact the office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding criminal charges and procedures.