Bicycling has become an increasingly popular mode of transportation in New Jersey and all across the United States. Bicycling offers many benefits, including physical exercise, low environmental impact, and budget friendliness. Unfortunately, there are also negative elements to bicycling, such as the dangers of sharing the roadway with larger vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 40,000 people across the U.S. are injured every year in bicycle accidents. More than 700 sustain fatal injuries.

The most common injuries associated with bicycle accidents include:

  • Broken or Dislocated Bones
  • Injuries to the Spinal Cord
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
  • Bruising
  • Cuts and Scrapes

Any of these injuries can have life-altering effects on the victim and his or her family. Medical expenses, loss of wages, decreased quality of life, pain and suffering, and funeral expenses are all devastating potential effects.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can be caused by many factors. In most cases, bicycle accidents occur as the result of a collision between the bicyclist and a larger vehicle. Some of the most common causes on New Jersey roadways include:

  • Driving under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
  • Failing to Yield the Right of Way
  • Failing to Obey Traffic Signals
  • Reckless Driving
  • Speeding

New Jersey Law

New Jersey drivers are tasked with sharing the roadway with bicyclists. When drivers fail to do so, their actions behind the wheel jeopardize the safety and security of those around them, especially pedestrians and bicyclists. New Jersey law has specific guidelines for bicyclists and automobile operators to follow. Unfortunately, negligence on our state’s roadways is a significant problem and contributes to many accidents, injuries, and deaths every year.

At Novins, York & Jacobus, our skilled attorneys are well versed in New Jersey law, including personal injury law. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, do not wait to get the legal guidance you need to protect you, your loved ones, and your financial future. New Jersey law provides specific guidelines for victims of personal injury accidents. Contact us immediately to find out what your options are.