New Jersey Bicycle Accident Lawyer
An attorney who has the experience and hustle to get results
Bicycling is popular in Millburn and throughout Union and Essex counties. Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. But many drivers don’t see it that way. They drive negligently and irresponsibly around bicycles, leading to car accidents that leave bicyclists seriously injured.
Attorney David Leigh of The Leigh Law Firm, P.C. fights for the rights of injured bicyclists. He understands the impact that injuries can have on victims and their families and how frustrating it can be when dealing with insurance companies. That’s why he builds strong cases that hold negligent drivers accountable to help victims recover the compensation they deserve. Schedule your free consultation with a bicycle accident attorney today.
Motorists need to share the road with cyclists
Drivers have a responsibility to watch for bicyclists and drive safely around them. It’s not just the right thing to do – it’s the law. For example, under New Jersey’s Safe Passing Law that went into effect on March 1, 2022, drivers must approach with caution when there is a bicyclist on the road. When passing, the driver must change lanes or stay four feet away from the bicyclist. If that’s not possible, the driver must reduce speed to 25 mph and be prepared to stop.
It only takes one negligent driver to cause a bicycle accident. A driver may have been driving well above the speed limit. Some drivers text behind the wheel and take their eyes off the road. Or they were talking on the phone. Some drivers who cause accidents were drunk or were so tired they fell asleep at the wheel.
The result is a crash that can leave bicyclists seriously injured. A car strikes the cyclist directly, or taps the wheel of the bicycle, causing the bicyclist to lose control. Some bicyclists are injured in dooring accidents – a driver or passenger in a parked car opens the door suddenly, directly into the path of the bicycle.
Types of bicycle accident injuries
Bicyclists have little protection in a crash. As a result, the injuries they suffer in an accident can be very serious. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones – The force of impact from being hit by a car or thrown onto the ground can cause fractures in the arms, legs, hips, collarbone, jaws, or fingers.
- Shoulder dislocations – Landing directly on your shoulder can cause a painful dislocation in the AC joint.
- Concussions or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – A bicycle helmet offers some protection in a crash, but bicyclists can still experience a brain injury. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, problems with balance, and problems with memory and concentration.
- Paralysis or nerve damage – This can lead to pain, loss of strength, speech difficulties, and difficulties controlling arms, legs, or hands.
- Neck injuries – These include herniated or fractured discs, pinched nerves, or damage to muscles and tendons.
- Cuts and bruises – Lacerations may cut deep into body tissue. Contusions from bleeding under the skin can be painful and impact mobility.
It can take weeks, months, or even years to heal from bicycle accident injuries. You may need surgery, hospitalization, medication, physical therapy, and multiple follow-up appointments with doctors. Some people are left with permanent disabilities.
Dealing with insurance companies after a bicycle accident is difficult
If a negligent driver caused your bicycle accident, you deserve financial compensation. It seems like the process should be pretty straightforward. A driver acted irresponsibly and caused the accident that left you hurt. The insurance company should compensate you for the damages y you suffered.
But recovering financial compensation is usually much more complicated than that. Drivers deny doing anything wrong. Insurance companies question the seriousness of your injuries or argue that your injuries were pre-existing. They may make you a settlement offer that falls far short of covering your damages.
We build strong cases that get results for injured cyclists
That’s why you need an experienced bicycle accident lawyer on your side. Attorney David Leigh once worked for the insurance companies. He is very familiar with the way adjusters approach claims and knows the tactics they use to try to limit compensation. He also knows how to fight back against those tactics.
Attorney Leigh puts in the hard work and hustle that’s needed to win. We investigate your accident to get the facts. This involves gathering evidence, carefully reviewing accident reports and medical records, and interviewing witnesses. If needed, we consult experts.
He determines the total amount of damages you suffered. We’re dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve – whether that’s through a negotiated settlement or a jury verdict.
Call today for a free consultation with an experienced bicycle accident attorney
If you were hurt in a bicycle accident in Northern New Jersey, we can help. Contact us to schedule a free consultation at our Millburn office. Or we can meet you at a location that is more convenient.