Bicyclists are some of the most vulnerable people on the road. In the event of a collision, they are likely to suffer severe injuries or even death.

If you or someone you love was hit by a car while riding a bike, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. You may be entitled to significant compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.

At Koenigsberg & Associates Law Offices, our Queens bicycle accident lawyers are committed to helping our clients recover the full, fair compensation they are owed. We have successfully handled thousands of personal injury cases and have a proven track record of success.

When you choose our firm, you can be confident that we have the skill, experience, and resources to handle your case.

Call us at (718) 690-3132 or contact us online today to get started with a free, no-obligation consultation.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can happen for any number of reasons. However, the majority of these crashes are caused by motorist negligence. When drivers fail to exercise reasonable caution while behind the wheel, they put others at risk. This includes bicyclists and pedestrians.

Some of the most common causes of bike accidents include:

  • Driver distraction: When drivers are not paying attention to the road, they are more likely to collide with a bicyclist or pedestrian. Common examples of driver distraction include texting while driving, eating and drinking while driving, and using in-car technologies.
  • Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious and even fatal accidents. When a drunk driver hits a bicyclist, the cyclist is likely to suffer catastrophic injuries or death.
  • Speeding: Speeding is a leading cause of all auto accidents, including bicycle crashes. When drivers travel above the posted speed limit, they are more likely to lose control of their vehicles and collide with others on the road.
  • Failure to yield: Drivers must yield the right of way to bicyclists and pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections. When drivers fail to yield, they can collide with a cyclist or pedestrian and cause severe injuries.
  • Unsafe lane changes: When drivers fail to check their blind spots or use their mirrors before changing lanes, they can collide with a bicyclist in the next lane over.
  • Doorings: “Dooring” accidents occur when a driver or passenger opens their car door into the path of an oncoming bicyclist. These accidents can cause the bicyclist to be thrown from the bike or collide with the door, resulting in serious injuries.

Who Is Liable for a Bike Accident in Queens?

Liability for a bicycle accident will depend on the specific cause of the crash. In many cases, the negligent motorist will be at fault.

This means that the at-fault driver can be held liable for the bicyclist’s damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Disfigurement
  • Disability
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

However, the driver may not be the only party who can be held liable.

For example, if the driver was working at the time of the crash, his or her employer may also be liable. Or if the driver was operating a company vehicle, the company may be held liable. Additionally, if the bicyclist was injured due to a defective bike or bike part, the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer may be liable.

Our Queens bicycle accident lawyers can thoroughly investigate your case to determine liability. We can then help you fight for the maximum compensation you are owed.