Riding a bicycle in Lakewood, New Jersey, is a popular and healthy means of commuting, exercise, or leisure. However, it’s crucial to be aware of potential hazards cyclists may encounter. From sharing roads with motor vehicles to navigating intersections, the risks are real.
The sudden nature of a bike accident can lead to catastrophic outcomes, resulting in serious injuries or even wrongful death. These incidents often leave individuals and families facing emotional and financial challenges. A local Lakewood bicycle accident lawyer can help.
A compassionate and experienced bike accident attorney can assist you in filing a personal injury claim, helping you navigate the complexities of the legal process. By taking this step, you empower yourself to pursue the compensation you need for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and other losses.
Remember, in challenging times like these, legal assistance can be a valuable resource to guide you toward a path of recovery and justice. Call our Lakewood office at (800) 624-8888 to talk to our legal team.
Why Choose a Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyer From Rothenberg Law Firm?
Choosing a bicycle accident lawyer is a significant decision, especially when you or a loved one has been through a traumatic experience. At Rothenberg Law Firm, we understand the emotional and physical toll a bicycle accident can take on individuals and families. Our commitment goes beyond legal experience; it’s about providing compassionate support during a challenging time.
When you choose a bicycle accident attorney from Rothenberg Law Firm, you’re selecting a partner who genuinely cares about your well-being. We recognize the unique struggles that follow such incidents. Our focus is not just on the case but on you as a person, ensuring that your voice is heard, and your concerns are addressed. Trust The Rothenberg Law Firm to be your advocate in Lakewood. Contact us today.
Our Lakewood, New Jersey, Office
The dedicated team of Lakewood personal injury attorneys at Rothenberg Law Firm LLP is committed to your case. With deep roots in Lakewood, we take pride in our legacy of assisting countless people throughout the county.
Our firm has successfully represented clients for more than 50 years. Our Lakewood, New Jersey, office is located just off Avenue of the States at 300 Boulevard of the Americas Suite 100, Lakewood, NJ 08701.
Call our Lakewood office at (800) 624-8888 or fill out our online Contact form to schedule your free consultation.
Lakewood Bicyclist Injury and Fatality Statistics
Lakewood is located along the Jersey Shore in the south-central portion of New Jersey, and the southernmost county in the New York metropolitan area. The county borders the Atlantic Ocean on the east and in terms of total area is the state’s largest county. Lakewood, New Jersey, is located in Ocean County.
There were 41 fatal traffic accidents in the Lakewood area in the last year where statistics were collected, and 44 total traffic fatalities. There was one death attributed to a bicycle accident in the county, in Toms River at State Highway 37.
The Lakewood Police Department reported the results of a four-year traffic study that revealed there were 31,587 pedestrians and bicyclists involved in crashes in the State of New Jersey during the recording period. Of that number, there were 2,894 fatalities. In Lakewood Township, the PD counted 574 pedestrians or bicycle operators involved in crashes, with 32 fatalities.
The New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety reports there were 589 total traffic crashes in the state, with 621 total fatalities for the year.
Hazards Cyclists May Encounter in Lakewood
Riding alongside motor vehicles poses challenges for bicyclists in Lakewood.
Sharing Roads with Motor Vehicles
- Lack of Awareness: Cyclists often grapple with the danger posed by drivers who are unaware of their presence on the road. This lack of awareness can result in sudden maneuvers by drivers, creating hazardous situations for cyclists.
- Unsafe Passing: The potential dangers of motorists passing too closely to cyclists cannot be overstated. This unsafe passing distance increases the likelihood of accidents and raises concerns about the safety of cyclists sharing the road.
- Door Collisions: The prevalent issue of “dooring” poses a significant risk to cyclists. This occurs when parked car occupants open doors without checking for approaching cyclists, leading to collisions that can result in serious injuries.
Navigating Intersections
- Right-of-Way Conflicts: Intersections become a focal point of complexity for cyclists, particularly when ambiguity arises regarding who has the right of way. Negotiating these conflicts adds an extra layer of risk to cyclists’ journeys.
- Red Light Violations: The risk of accidents escalates when drivers run red lights or fail to yield to cyclists at intersections. Such violations compromise the safety of cyclists and underscore the need for heightened vigilance at these critical points.
- Blind Spots: Cyclists face challenges when drivers are unable to see them in their blind spots, leading to potential collisions during turns.
Road Conditions and Infrastructure Challenges
- Potholes and Uneven Surfaces: Poor road conditions, marked by potholes and uneven surfaces, pose a significant threat to cyclists. The impact of such road imperfections can result in accidents, causing injuries and highlighting the need for better road maintenance.
- Lack of Bike Lanes: Inadequate bike lanes or a lack of bike lanes present challenges for cyclists, forcing them to share congested roads with motor vehicles. The absence of dedicated lanes compromises the safety and comfort of cyclists during their journeys.
- Inadequate Signage: Clear road signage is crucial to prevent confusion and potential accidents.
Understanding these hazards promotes safer road-sharing practices and reduces the risk of bicycle accidents in Lakewood, New Jersey.
The Sudden Nature and Catastrophic Results of Bike Accidents
Bicycle accidents in Lakewood unfold with an abruptness that can be both shocking and life-altering. The unexpected nature of these incidents catches cyclists off guard, disrupting the normal flow of their lives in an instant.
What might begin as a routine ride can swiftly transform into a pivotal moment that reshapes the trajectory of an individual’s future. The impact is not just physical but extends into the emotional and financial realms, leaving a lasting mark on those affected.
Potential for Serious Injuries or Wrongful Death
The aftermath of a bicycle accident often involves grappling with serious injuries that can range from fractures and head injuries to severe trauma affecting the entire body.
Some typical bike accident injuries include:
- Head Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Facial Injuries: Fractures, lacerations, dental injuries
- Orthopedic Injuries: Fractured bones (e.g., arms, legs, collarbones), dislocated joints, sprains and strains
- Spinal Injuries: Spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, nerve damage
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Contusions (bruises), abrasions (road rash), ligament and tendon injuries
- Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding, Organ damage
- Psychological Injuries: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), emotional trauma
- Wrongful Death: In the most devastating cases, there is the distressing possibility of wrongful death. The sudden loss of life not only affects the individual involved but also reverberates through families and communities, forever altering the landscape of those touched by such tragic events.
The severity of injuries can vary based on factors such as the speed of the collision, the use of protective gear, and the nature of the accident. Head injuries are particularly concerning. Seeking medical attention promptly after a bicycle accident is crucial, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Emotional and Financial Challenges Faced by Individuals and Families
Beyond the physical injuries, bicycle accidents bring forth a wave of emotional and financial challenges for individuals and their families.
The emotional toll is profound, encompassing feelings of shock, trauma, and distress. Coping with the aftermath requires resilience and support. Simultaneously, the financial burdens incurred, from medical expenses to potential loss of income, can overwhelm you.
Families find themselves navigating uncharted territory, facing the need for comprehensive support systems to address both the immediate and long-term effects of the accident.
The Role of a Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyer
After a bike crash, a Lakewood personal injury lawyer serves as a guide, providing the necessary assistance to navigate the intricate path toward justice and recovery. We know navigating the legal aftermath of a bicycle accident can be daunting, especially when emotions run high. You don’t have to handle this on your own. Our legal team has extensive experience with bicycle accident claims in Lakewood.
These are some services we can provide:
- Legal Consultation: Initial free consultation to assess the details of the bicycle accident. Legal advice on potential courses of action and the viability of a personal injury claim.
- Case Evaluation: Conduct a thorough analysis of the circumstances surrounding the bicycle accident. Assess the extent of injuries, property damage, and other relevant factors to determine the strength of the case.
- Investigation: Gather evidence related to the accident, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Work with accident reconstruction experts if needed to build a comprehensive case.
- Communication with Insurance Companies: Communicate and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Advocate for fair compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other damages.
- Legal Representation: Provide legal representation in court if the case goes to trial. Present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf.
- Negotiation for Settlements: Negotiate settlements with the at-fault party or their insurance company to reach a fair resolution without going to trial. Pursue damages for both economic and non-economic losses resulting from the bicycle accident. Ensure that any settlement adequately covers your damages.
- Legal Guidance: Provide ongoing legal guidance throughout the entire process. Answer questions, address concerns, and keep you informed about the progress of your case.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New Jersey is generally two years. This means that individuals typically have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s essential to note that statutes of limitations can be subject to change, and there may be exceptions or specific circumstances that could alter the timeframe.
Your personal injury attorney will have the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the statute of limitations for these claims in New Jersey. They can provide advice tailored to your specific situation and the latest legal requirements.
We are committed to demystifying the legal process, providing clear and comprehensible explanations, and ensuring that you feel empowered and informed at every stage. From initial consultations to the resolution of the case, we act as steadfast allies, offering personalized guidance tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
Damages Available for a Bicycle Accident Claim
Damages encompass the tangible and intangible losses you endure due to the incident. From medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering, damages seek to provide comprehensive support and justice through legal avenues.
Compensation may include:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for current and future medical bills related to injuries sustained in the accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication costs.
- Lost Wages: Recovery of income lost due to time off work during the healing process or any future loss of earning capacity resulting from the accident.
- Property Damage: Compensation for the repair or replacement of the bicycle and any other damaged personal property in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall suffering caused by the bicycle accident, including any long-term or chronic pain.
- Emotional Distress: Additional compensation for emotional and psychological distress resulting from the trauma of the accident, which may include anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for the impact the injuries have on the individual’s ability to participate in and enjoy life activities, hobbies, or recreational pursuits.
- Wrongful Death: In cases of fatal bicycle accidents, compensation for the surviving family members may include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.
- Punitive Damages: In certain cases where the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish and deter similar behavior in the future.
Contact Rothenberg Law Firm for Your Lakewood Bicycle Accident Claim
Melissa Rothenberg-Kapustin, Esq., Lakewood Bicycle Accident Lawyer
After a bicycle accident, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone.
Reach out to Rothenberg Law Firm today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Our experienced team in Lakewood is well-versed in bicycle accident cases, offering compassionate support and dedicated representation throughout the process.
Time is crucial; delays can impact your ability to seek compensation. Schedule a free consultation with Rothenberg Law Firm to discuss your case. We’ll provide a thorough assessment, outline your legal options, and guide you through the process to secure fair compensation for your injuries.
Remember, you’re not alone. Reach out to us today and let us be your advocate in your bicycle accident claim.
Call our Lakewood office at (800) 624-8888 or fill out our online Contact form to schedule your free consultation.
