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by Andrew Weitz

Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in New York

If you have been injured in a bicycle or pedestrian accident in New York, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. At Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C, we have a team of experienced attorneys who can help you get the compensation you deserve.

The dangers of cycling and walking in New York City

New York City can be a dangerous place for cyclists and pedestrians. Traffic congestion, distracted drivers, and poorly maintained roads all contribute to the risk of accidents. In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of cyclist and pedestrian fatalities and injuries. E-bikes are involved in a significant number of these accidents.

Several factors contribute to these incidents, often unique to the operation of bicycles:

Defective Roadway Design or Maintenance: Poorly designed or maintained roads can lead to dangerous situations for cyclists. Potholes, road debris, and maintenance problems are common culprits.
Impaired Visibility: With the city’s constant hustle and bustle, impaired visibility can pose a significant risk, particularly in low-light conditions or during inclement weather.
Unique Scenarios: In New York, it’s not uncommon for pedestrians to be struck and injured by bicycle messengers or delivery persons, adding to the complexity of urban cycling safety.

These factors, compounded by the city’s dense traffic and bustling pedestrian activity, highlight the need for enhanced safety measures and awareness among both cyclists and pedestrians. By understanding these risks, we can work towards creating safer streets for everyone.

Your legal rights after a bicycle or pedestrian accident

If you have been injured in a bicycle or pedestrian accident, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the party responsible for your injuries. This could be the driver of a motor vehicle, the owner of a property, or a government agency.

How a Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help

A bicycle or pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process after an accident. They can investigate your accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. An attorney can also represent you in court if necessary.

Why Choose Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C

At Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C, we have a proven track record of success in helping injured cyclists and pedestrians obtain compensation for their injuries. We are committed to providing our clients with personalized attention and aggressive representation.

Our legal team is known for its dedication to meticulous case preparation, ensuring every detail is addressed to maximize your chances of a successful outcome. This thorough approach has earned us the trust of both our peers and clients alike.

Our attorneys are not only well-regarded in the legal community but are also actively engaged with local cycling and pedestrian safety organizations. This involvement keeps us connected to the issues that matter most to our clients, allowing us to advocate effectively on their behalf.

When you choose Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C, you’re selecting a team that values transparency, communication, and results. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a concerned pedestrian, our expertise and community engagement make us the right choice for your legal needs.

Contact us today for a free consultation

If you have been injured in a bicycle or pedestrian accident, contact Berkowitz & Weitz Law, P.C today for a free consultation. We will review your case and advise you of your legal options.

Injury & Fatality Data

What are the statistics on bicycle accident fatalities and injuries in New York City in recent years?

The statistics regarding bicycle accident fatalities and injuries in New York City show varying trends over different time periods.

In July and August of 2022, there were a total of 4 bicycle accident fatalities, with 3 in July and 1 in August. This was an increase from the previous year’s numbers for the same months. From January to August 2022, a total of 9 people lost their lives in bicycle accidents in New York City, showing a rise compared to the same period in the years 2021, 2020, and 2019.

Despite efforts to improve infrastructure, fatalities remain a concern, particularly outside Manhattan. Brooklyn, for example, reported the highest number of cyclist fatalities in 2022, with incidents also significantly impacting the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens.

Bicycle Accident Injuries
Injuries followed a similar upward trend. During the summer months of 2020, injuries surged above 600 monthly as new cyclists took to the streets, only to decline below 500 in the following years as people adapted or abandoned cycling. However, 2022 saw an influx of tourists contributing to higher injury numbers, with 527 and 530 reported in July and August, respectively.

Q1 2023 Fatalities and Injuries
Moving on to Q1 2023, the data revealed a record high of 9 cyclists killed in crashes. Among the fatalities, 7 were riding electric bikes, and 2 were on regular bicycles. Notably, most of the e-bike riders lost their lives in crashes not involving other vehicles. Additionally, out of the 5 fatal crashes involving vehicles, trucks and SUVs were the most common types involved in accidents with cyclists.

Q1 2023 also saw a spike in bicycle accident injuries, with 809 cyclists injured compared to the previous year. This rise could be attributed in part to the warm winter experienced during these months.

Furthermore, a concerning fact emerged during Q1 2023 – 5 of the 9 fatal bicycle accidents occurred in the first two months of the year. This data was particularly alarming as January and February are typically months with low occurrences of bicycle accident fatalities. This marked the third instance in recent years where a record number of bicycle accident fatalities were recorded during the first two months of the year, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures.

Geographical Injury Data
Brooklyn led in injuries too, with 1,879 cyclist injuries in 2022, along with 920 injuries among e-mobility users like e-scooters and mopeds. Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx followed, each with hundreds of incidents, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue across the city.

By examining these detailed statistics, it’s evident that both fatalities and injuries remain on an upward trajectory, necessitating urgent and comprehensive safety interventions.

NYC personal injury lawyer selection

How many people are killed or injured in bicycle accidents in New York City?

According to recent statistics released by the New York City Police Department (NYPD), there has been a concerning increase in fatalities and injuries related to bicycle accidents in the city. From January 1st to August 31st of this year, a total of 9 individuals lost their lives due to bicycle accidents, marking a rise from the previous years. Similarly, the number of bicycle accident injuries remains alarmingly high, with 527 and 530 reported injuries in the months of July and August 2022, respectively. These numbers reflect an ongoing trend of fatalities and injuries among cyclists in New York City, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and infrastructure, particularly outside of Manhattan. As the city continues to see increased tourism and activity, it is crucial to address these risks and prioritize the safety of cyclists on the roads.

What are the most common bicycle accident injuries?

The most common injuries sustained in a bicycle accident include head injuries like skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries, facial injuries such as facial fractures, including jaw fractures or broken bones, broken bones in the legs, arms, shoulders, and neck, chest trauma like rib fractures, and abdominal injuries such as ruptured spleen, pancreatic trauma, or other internal injuries.

Are there specific laws regulating bicyclists in New York City and NY State?

Yes, there are specific laws regulating bicyclists in both New York City and New York State. Bicyclists in New York must adhere to the same rules of the road as other vehicle operators and are entitled to the same rights. Additionally, there are specific regulations regarding helmet laws for bicyclists in New York, including age restrictions for passengers and the requirement for protective headgear for those under fourteen years old. Bicyclists are considered pedestrians under the No-Fault Law in New York, which entitles them to No-Fault coverage in most situations. These laws are codified in the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law, including sections related to helmet requirements and passenger restrictions for bicyclists.

Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Please consult with an attorney to discuss your specific situation.