Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Staten Island, New York

Why You Need an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney

Although it’s possible to file a claim on your own, bicycle accident cases are complex. Hiring a bicycle accident attorney can give you the best possible chance of recovering the maximum compensation you’re entitled to receive.

Our experienced personal injury lawyers have the resources, knowledge, and determination required to go up against powerful insurance companies and win. We thoroughly investigate your case, accurately value your claim, handle all negotiations and communications with insurers, and fight to help you recover the fair compensation for your injuries and losses. 

Understanding New York’s Comparative Negligence Law

New York personal injury law follows a comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for a collision. For instance, if you were found 30% responsible for the accident, your total compensation would be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our experienced bicycle accident lawyers are well-versed in New York law. We know how to prove fault and maximize compensation for injured victims. 

Proving Fault in Bicycle Accident Claims

Solid evidence is key when proving who’s at fault for an accident and demonstrating the far-reaching impact of your injury. Our seasoned legal team gathers evidence such as:

• Police reports
• Photos and video
• Dashcam and surveillance footage
• Witness statements
• Information from a vehicle’s Event Data Recorder (EDR)
• Cell phone records
• Medical records
• Statements from family and friends about how the accident has affected your health and your life

Our personal injury lawyers work with respected accident reconstructionists and medical experts to prove your claim and clearly demonstrate how negligence caused your injuries.

Determining the Value of Your Case

At Chelli & Bush, we know that no two cases are alike. The value of your claim depends on the specific circumstances and factors such as:

• The severity and extent of your injuries
• Potential future medical costs
• Lost earning capacity
• Whether you’ve suffered a permanent disability, injury, or disfigurement
• How the accident has affected all areas of your life
• Insurance policy limits
• Your age, health, and other factors

Our personal injury attorneys work with economists, medical experts, life care specialists, and other professionals to ensure your claim is accurately valued. 

Types of Damages in Bicycle Accident Cases

Our bicycle accident attorneys in Staten Island may be able to help you recover damages such as:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of companionship and consortium

In rare cases involving particularly egregious behavior or intentional malice, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are meant to punish the defendant and deter similar acts in the future. If you’ve lost a loved one, we can evaluate your case and determine whether filing a wrongful death claim may be a possibility. 

Statute of Limitations in New York Bicycle Accident Cases

Generally, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in New York is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can result in you losing your right to recover compensation. However, there are exceptions. That’s why it’s important to contact a bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. 

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance claims can be complicated, especially when a crash involves a hit-and-run or uninsured/underinsured driver. Not only that, but insurers also do everything they can to minimize payouts and deny claims.

Don’t let them downplay your injuries or talk you into accepting less than you deserve. Our bicycle accident lawyers negotiate aggressively on your behalf and won’t back down. If a reasonable settlement can’t be reached, we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial. Our personal injury lawyers are seasoned trial attorneys with decades of experience in the courtroom.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Staten Island

Taking these important steps immediately after a crash can protect your health and support a potential personal injury claim.

• Call 911 and wait for police to arrive. Obtain a copy of the police report at the scene if possible.
• Seek medical care. Even if you feel fine, injuries like concussion, traumatic brain injury, and internal bleeding may not show symptoms right away.
• Gather evidence. Take photos of the scene, your bike, other vehicles, your injuries, and road conditions. Use the voice recorder on your phone or jot down everything you remember about what happened.
• Obtain contact information. Get names, insurance information, and contact information from any involved parties. Make sure to ask any witnesses for their phone numbers as well.
• Watch what you say. If an insurance company representative contacts you and asks for a statement, politely decline. At the scene, avoid saying things like “I’m sorry” or “it was my fault.” This can jeopardize your claim.
• Contact a bicycle accident lawyer. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. A personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case at no charge and ensure your rights are protected.