Bicycle accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Unfortunately, bicycle-vehicle collisions can cause serious injuries that can result in costly medical care and other financial issues.
Bicycle Accident Victims Have Rights
At the law offices of Ginsberg and O’Connor, we have experience helping victims of bicycle accidents in New Jersey recover compensation for their injuries. Our personal injury lawyers provide personalized attention and will review all of your legal options after an accident with a motorist.
Motorists are supposed to share the road with cyclists, but many fail to remember this. Many bicycle-vehicle crashes are caused by negligent drivers who fail to see the biker or pull out or turn in front of the bike. These careless actions can cause serious or catastrophic injuries due to the size of the vehicle compared with the lack of protection a bicyclist has.
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to compensation or benefits under the motorist’s insurance policy. Our attorneys can review your accident and your medical care to help you get fair compensation and recover. We are familiar with insurance policies, and we will ensure you receive the maximum benefits possible.
Our lawyers can also pursue a third-party claim against the driver responsible for your injuries to help you obtain compensation to pay for your expenses, including for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical care.
New Jersey Helmet Laws for Bicyclists
New Jersey requires all bicycle riders and passengers under 17 to wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet that meets federal safety standards. This rule applies whether the child is riding independently, seated as a passenger, or being towed.
While adults are not legally required to wear helmets, all cyclists should consider using approved head protection, particularly when riding near traffic. Helmets can significantly reduce the risk of severe head injuries in the event of a collision or fall.
The Safe Passing Law and Bicyclists
To further protect bicyclists, New Jersey enforces a Safe Passing Law, which outlines how motorists must behave when approaching cyclists. Drivers must change lanes if possible to avoid riding next to a bicycle. If they cannot switch lanes, they must keep a minimum distance of four feet while passing.
When neither option is safe or legal, motorists must slow to 25 miles per hour or less and be prepared to stop. These rules are designed to prevent accidents and promote safer shared roadways.
Additional Rules and Regulations for Bicyclists
Bicyclists are also subject to equipment and conduct regulations that promote safety and may reduce their liability in the event of an accident. Bicycles must be equipped with:
- White front headlamp visible from at least 600 feet
- Red rear lamp visible from at least 600 feet
- Bell or audible device that can be heard from 100 feet or more, but not a whistle or siren
- The brake is capable of making the wheels skid on dry, level pavement
In low-light conditions or areas with limited visibility, following these rules helps ensure that cyclists are seen and heard by others on the road.
Along with equipment standards, New Jersey cyclists must follow the same operating regulations as motor vehicle drivers. They must stay as close to the right side of the road as practicable, except when:
- Turning left
- Avoiding hazards
- Passing slower vehicles
- Traveling at the same speed as traffic
Additionally, cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic flow and may ride two bicycles abreast only when it does not impede vehicle flow. Performing stunts, riding without hands on the handlebars, or attaching to moving vehicles is prohibited.
While following these laws enhances safety, they can also strengthen an injured cyclist’s legal position in the event of an accident.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers
We offer free initial consultations and can discuss your legal options after a bicycle accident. Our law office is located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and we can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us at 856-727-1991, or submit your information online.