Bicycle Accident Lawyer Harlem, NY
Call Our Harlem, NY Bicycle Accident Lawyer After Your Bike Wreck
Heavy traffic and tight city streets make a bicycle one of the most effective ways to get around Harlem. Whether you use your bike for work, like delivery services or as a bike messenger, to get to work, or just for fun, there’s always a risk that an errant driver will hit you. Although negligent drivers are the most common cause of bicycle accidents, they’re not the only ones. Uneven pavement or potholes that wouldn’t faze someone in a car or on foot can be deadly hazards for cyclists. If you’ve been in a cycling accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible to claim a large settlement. Our Harlem, NY bicycle accident lawyer can help you get it.
Injuries from cycling accidents, even if you’re wearing a helmet, produce severe injuries, including brain trauma. Your entire life is affected, and you need someone on your side. We’re ready to help you. Contact The Eskesen Law Firm today for a free consultation.
How Our Attorneys Help Bike Accident Victims
Some bicycle accidents really are just accidents; we all get clumsy sometimes. However, if you’ve been hit by a car, that’s definitely not just clumsiness, but rather negligence. Negligence is the crux of personal injury claims, and it’s what you and your attorney must prove to get compensation. As your legal representative, we investigate the accidents to identify the negligent party and collect evidence to prove that they weren’t taking proper care for your safety.
For example, if you were hit by a negligent driver, we may review their cell phone records to see if they were texting and driving or analyze data in the vehicle’s Event Data Recorder, checking speed and other aspects of the vehicle’s operations. We may also interview any witnesses, including passengers in the car.
The evidence we gather forms the basis of the argument for compensation. Our attorneys are often able to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company outside of court, but sometimes, the best option is to take the matter to trial. As experienced litigators, we’re very comfortable in New York County courtrooms, with a solid track record of successful trials.
Compensation Available in Bicycle Accident Claims
Bicycle accident victims may claim full compensation for damages, but what exactly are damages?
Damages refer to the losses, both out-of-pocket and intangible that you incur because of the accident. This includes all necessary medical care, plus future medical expenses and any rehabilitative treatment, like physical therapy. If you miss work, you can claim lost wages, plus loss of earning potential if you can’t do the job you had before the wreck. Plus, you can claim the full cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle. You’re also eligible for compensation for your pain and suffering, which, although it is non-material, still has value, and we ensure that you receive your due.
Have you been in a cycling accident? The attorneys at The Eskesen Law Firm want to help you. Contact us today for a free consultation with our Harlem bicycle accident lawyer.
Common Injuries Sustained In Bicycle Accidents
Bicycling is a healthy, eco-friendly way to get around—but when an accident happens, cyclists are often the ones who suffer the most. Without the protection that cars provide, riders are vulnerable to a range of injuries, some of which can be severe or even life-altering. Whether the accident involved a car, poor road conditions, or a defective bike, a bicycle accident lawyer can help injured cyclists understand their rights and pursue compensation for their injuries. The Eskesen Law Firm knows how to handle personal injury cases such as these and have won millions of dollars for clients. People are available 24/7 to receive calls and go over some details of your case so that you can seek compensation.
Head Injuries
Even with a helmet, head injuries are among the most serious outcomes of a bike crash. These can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries, which may cause long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges. Symptoms like confusion, memory loss, dizziness, or headaches should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately after a crash.
Broken Bones
Cyclists often extend their arms or legs instinctively to brace for a fall, which can result in fractures to the wrist, hand, forearm, collarbone, or shoulder. Legs and ribs are also commonly broken in collisions with vehicles. Depending on the severity, these injuries may require surgery, casting, and months of physical therapy.
Spinal Injuries
In high-impact crashes or falls, the back and neck can take a hard hit. Spinal cord injuries may cause temporary or permanent loss of function or mobility. Even when the spine isn’t fractured, herniated discs or soft tissue damage can lead to chronic pain and limitations that affect a cyclist’s ability to work or ride again.
Road Rash
When a cyclist hits the pavement, layers of skin can be scraped away—an injury commonly known as road rash. While it might seem minor, road rash can be extremely painful and prone to infection, especially when gravel or debris gets embedded in the wound. In more serious cases, it may require skin grafts or leave permanent scarring.
Dental And Facial Injuries
Without the protection of a windshield or seatbelt, a cyclist’s face is at risk during a collision or fall. Broken teeth, facial fractures, eye injuries, or deep cuts can result in long-term damage and disfigurement. These types of injuries often require surgery and reconstructive dental or cosmetic work.
Internal Injuries
Not all injuries are immediately visible. A strong blow to the torso can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs like the lungs, liver, or spleen. These injuries are potentially life-threatening and need emergency care. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness after a crash should never be ignored.
Psychological Trauma
In addition to physical harm, many cyclists experience emotional distress after a serious accident. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, or fear of riding again are all common. Emotional injuries are just as real and can significantly impact quality of life.
It is important for cyclists to learn bicycle hand signals to avoid any kind of potential accidents. This can make a big impact on cyclist safety on the road.
When To Call A Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you’ve sustained any of these injuries in a bicycle accident caused by a negligent driver, poor road maintenance, or defective bike equipment, it’s important to speak with a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can help gather evidence, file insurance claims, calculate the full scope of your damages, and advocate for the compensation you need to recover—physically, emotionally, and financially.
Even a short bike ride can turn into a life-changing event in a matter of seconds. Understanding the risks and knowing your legal rights can make all the difference when it comes to healing and moving forward. Lawyers at The Eskesen Law Firm can help you with your case. Do not hesitate to reach out.
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Contact our law firm to speak with an attorney at 212.433.4500 or email us.