The streets of NYC can get quite crowded. Most pedestrians know that they have to be on the lookout for cars, but someone on a bicycle can also be a threat. If you were hit by a cyclist while you were walking somewhere, you probably have some significant injuries and a pile of medical bills causing you stress. If you believe that the cyclist who hit you was in the wrong, you may be able to pursue compensation. A Queens pedestrian accident attorney can help you build a case.
Can a Bicycle Really Cause Serious Injuries?
Of course it can. A bicycle can move fast and when it crashes into a pedestrian, you have to consider the weight of the rider and the vehicle. It’s no surprise that victims can end up with:
- Fractured and broken bones
- Scratches, cuts, and road rash
- Concussions and head injuries
- Spinal cord, back, and neck injuries
- Severe facial injuries
These injuries could all require continued care, multiple visits to doctors, and expensive treatments. Why should you have to pay for these medical expenses when someone else’s negligence caused them?
What Should I Do If a Bicycle Hits Me?
You can do a few things to start building your case right after a bicycle hits you. We recommend:
- Taking pictures of your injuries
- Getting contact information from the cyclists
- Call the police so that they can fill out an accident report
- Looking for any nearby surveillance cameras
- Talking to any people who may have witnessed the crash
- Going to the doctor as soon as possible
All of these actions can help you with your case. Getting medical attention right away can also help you ensure that you get a proper diagnosis for any injuries and that you do not make them worse. You can also use your medical records and bills as evidence later!
Can I Sue a Cyclist For Damages?
You can. Do not think that this isn’t a worthwhile endeavor just because a car was not involved in your accident. Cars have insurance policies covering them and that usually makes it easier to pursue personal injury cases against a driver. Some of our clients are surprised to learn that the cyclist who hit them might also be covered by insurance.
The first possibility is that they have bicycle insurance. This can offer a rider liability coverage that would pay out when they harm a pedestrian in a crash. If they do not have this kind of policy, a renter’s or homeowner’s policy might be applicable here. A seasoned personal injury lawyer can help you figure out the right path to take.
Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you want to learn more about what our attorneys can do to help you with your case, contact the Law Offices of George Poulos. Cyclists are supposed to share the road safely. When they don’t make that effort, they should be held accountable for the harm that they caused.
