Patchogue Bicycle Accident Lawyer 

Bicyclists in Patchogue share the road with heavy traffic and distracted drivers, sometimes on poorly maintained streets. While riding through areas like Main Street or North Ocean Avenue, cyclists face risks from careless motorists who can cause serious accidents. 

If you’ve suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve fair compensation for what you’ve endured. An experienced Patchogue bicycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight to secure compensation for your medical bills, missed work, and other losses.The personal injury attorneys at Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP are here to help. Our team fights for injured cyclists and ensures insurance companies don’t take advantage of them. Call (631) 818-7000 for a free consultation today to learn about your legal options. 

Patchogue Bicycle Accident Guide

• Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Patchogue  
• Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accidents  
• New York Bicycle Laws and Rights  
• Compensation Available to Injured Cyclists  
• How Our Firm Can Help
• Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident 
• Why Choose Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP?  
• Patchogue Bicycle Accident FAQs  
• Contact a Patchogue Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today  

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Patchogue  

Cyclists in Patchogue face daily risks from careless drivers, poor road conditions, and other hazards. Areas like Main Street, Sunrise Highway, and Route 112 see heavy traffic, increasing the likelihood of bicycle accidents. Even when cyclists follow the law and take precautions, negligent drivers and unsafe roadways put them in harm’s way. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in Patchogue include:  

Distracted Driving  

Drivers who text, adjust their GPS, or engage in other distractions take their attention away from the road. A momentary lapse in focus can result in a devastating crash, especially in high-traffic areas like East Main Street, where cyclists often ride near parked cars and moving vehicles.  

Failure to Yield Right of Way  

Intersections and crosswalks can be dangerous when drivers ignore right-of-way rules. Many bicycle crashes happen when motorists fail to yield while making turns or rolling through stop signs. Cyclists traveling through intersections like Waverly Avenue and Montauk Highway often encounter drivers who don’t stop or misjudge a cyclist’s speed.  

Dooring Incidents  

Riding near parked cars is risky when drivers and passengers open their doors without checking for approaching cyclists. A cyclist may have little time to react, resulting in a direct collision or swerving into traffic to avoid the door. Dooring accidents are especially common on busy streets with parallel parking, such as Main Street.  

Poor Road Conditions and Infrastructure  

Potholes, debris, and unclear lane markings make cycling more dangerous. Many roads in Patchogue lack dedicated bike lanes, forcing cyclists to share lanes with cars. Uneven pavement or storm drains along road shoulders can also create hazards, increasing the risk of losing control and crashing.  

Driving Under the Influence 

Drunk or drug-impaired drivers pose a serious threat to everyone on the road, including cyclists. Impaired drivers struggle with slowed reaction times, poor judgment, and difficulty staying in their lanes. A cyclist hit by a drunk driver often suffers severe injuries due to the force of impact.  

Unsafe Lane Changes  

When drivers switch lanes without signaling or checking their blind spots, they may cut off or sideswipe a cyclist. This is particularly dangerous on roads like Sunrise Highway, where cars travel at high speeds, leaving cyclists with little room to maneuver.  

Bicycle accidents happen for many reasons. In most cases, they result from a driver’s negligence. Injured cyclists have the right to seek compensation for the harm a reckless or careless driver causes. Our attorneys are here to help you hold those responsible accountable.

Types of Injuries in Bicycle Accidents  

Cyclists have little protection against the force of an impact, which often leads to serious injuries. Some of the most common include:  

Head Trauma and Brain Injuries  

Even with a helmet, head injuries can occur in a crash. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) range from mild concussions to permanent cognitive impairments that affect memory, speech, and motor function.  

Spinal Cord Injuries  

A direct impact to the back or neck can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or total paralysis. These injuries often require extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation.  

Broken Bones and Fractures 

Bicyclists frequently suffer broken arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones in collisions. Recovery may require surgeries, physical therapy, and time away from work.  

Road Rash and Soft Tissue Damage  

Falling onto pavement at high speeds can cause deep abrasions, scarring, and infections. Muscle and ligament injuries may also develop, restricting movement and causing long-lasting pain.  

Internal Injuries  

Blunt force trauma from a vehicle or the ground can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, and life-threatening complications that require emergency medical intervention.  

Long-Term Disabilities 

Serious bicycle accidents can leave victims with lasting impairments, such as chronic pain, mobility issues, or cognitive challenges. These conditions affect daily life, employment, and overall well-being.  

New York Bicycle Laws and Rights  

Cyclists in Patchogue have legal protections under New York law. Understanding these rights helps hold negligent parties accountable after an accident.  

Local Cycling Regulations 

New York law treats bicycles as vehicles, granting them the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Cyclists must follow traffic signals, use designated bike lanes where available, and ride with the flow of traffic.  

Right of Way Rules  

Motorists must yield to cyclists in bike lanes and at intersections where bicycles have the right of way. Unfortunately, drivers don’t always follow these laws, leading to serious crashes.  

Required Safety Equipment 

New York law mandates front and rear reflectors, a working bell or horn, and brakes in good condition. Cyclists under 14 must wear helmets, but all riders should use protective gear to reduce injury risk.  

Insurance Requirements 

Injured cyclists may have options for coverage under their own auto insurance, the at-fault driver’s policy, or a third-party liability claim. Determining the best source for compensation depends on the accident’s circumstances.  

Statute of Limitations for Filing Claims  

New York law limits the time to take legal action after a bicycle accident. In most cases, injured cyclists have three years to file a personal injury claim. Claims against government entities may have shorter deadlines.  

Compensation Available to Injured Cyclists  

A bicycle accident can leave you with unexpected expenses and a long road to recovery. A successful claim can provide compensation for:  

• Medical Expenses (Current and Future): Hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatments create financial burdens. Your attorney needs to seek reimbursement for these costs, as well as projected future medical needs.  
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Time away from work leads to lost income. If injuries impact your ability to return to your job or earn at the same level, compensation can cover the difference.  
• Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress caused by an accident deserve recognition. Your lawyer can account for the suffering you endured during recovery and beyond.  
• Property Damage: A bicycle often sustains damage or is completely destroyed in a crash. A claim can cover repair or replacement costs.  
• Rehabilitation Costs: Serious injuries require rehabilitation services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices. These costs should not come out of your pocket.  
• Emotional Distress: Accidents can leave lasting psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Compensation can address the impact on mental health. 

You can count on our attorneys to completely assess and document your losses and fight to maximize your financial recovery.

How Our Firm Can Help

Recovering from a bicycle accident is difficult enough without having to battle insurance companies or prove fault. Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP protects the rights of injured cyclists and handles the legal process so you can focus on healing. From gathering evidence to negotiating settlements, we work to secure the compensation our clients deserve.  

Here’s how our firm can help after a bicycle accident in Patchogue:  

Free Initial Consultation 

Understanding your legal options should not come at a cost. We offer a free consultation where we listen to what happened, assess your potential claim, and explain the next steps. There’s no obligation—just clear, honest guidance.  

Investigation of the Accident Scene  

Determining what caused the crash and who is responsible requires a thorough investigation. Our team reviews traffic camera footage, examines police reports, and gathers any available dashcam or security camera recordings from nearby businesses. If road conditions played a role, we document the hazards and consider whether a municipality or property owner may share liability.  

Gathering Evidence and Witness Statements  

Strong evidence helps prove negligence and maximize compensation. We collect medical records, accident reports, and witness statements to support the claim. Testimony from those who saw the crash firsthand can help establish what happened so we can hold the at-fault party accountable.  

Negotiating with Insurance Companies  

Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the cyclist. We push back against these tactics, making sure our clients receive a fair settlement. If an insurer refuses to offer reasonable compensation, we explore other legal avenues to hold them accountable.  

Expert Witness Coordination 

For severe injuries, medical experts help explain the long-term impact on a client’s health, work ability, and quality of life. Accident reconstruction specialists can also demonstrate how the crash occurred. These professionals strengthen the case and ensure your attorney fully documents all your damages.

Trial Representation if Necessary  

We settle most cases out of court. However, if an insurance company refuses to take responsibility and offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial. We present compelling arguments, backed by solid evidence, to fight for the compensation you deserve.  

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident 

Whether you are still at the scene or recovering in a hospital or at home, taking the right steps can help protect your health and your ability to seek compensation.  

At the Accident Scene 

If you are still at the scene of the crash and able to act:  

1. Call 911: Request police and medical assistance. A police report will provide an official record of what happened.  
2. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.  
3. Collect driver and witness information: Get the driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers.  
4. Take photos and videos: Capture images of the accident scene, damaged bicycle, injuries, skid marks, traffic signs, and anything else relevant to the crash.  
5. Avoid admitting fault: Even a simple apology can be twisted by insurance companies to place blame on you. Stick to the facts when speaking with police or others involved.  

After Seeking Medical Care 

Once you have received medical treatment, focus on protecting your right to compensation:  

1. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan: Keep all appointments, follow recommendations, and document your recovery process.  
2. Save medical records and receipts: These documents help establish the extent of your injuries and the cost of your care.  
3. Do not speak with the other party’s insurance company: Insurance adjusters may try to get a statement or offer a low settlement. Anything said to them could be used against you. Instead, let an attorney handle all communication.  
4. Contact a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible: Speaking with a lawyer early in the process helps protect your rights. Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for less than what a cyclist truly deserves.  

Insurance companies prioritize their bottom line, not the well-being of injured cyclists. Without legal representation, it’s easy to get pressured into accepting a lowball settlement. Our lawyers will handle negotiations, build a strong case, and push back when insurers try to minimize the severity of injuries or shift blame. 

Why Choose Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP?  

As a leading Long Island personal injury law firm, we’ve recovered substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. Some aspects that set our firm apart include:

• Deep understanding of Patchogue’s roads and local legal system.  
• A history of securing substantial settlements for bicycle accident victims.  
• Dedicated attention to each client’s case.  
• Resources to handle serious and catastrophic injury claims.  
• No legal fees unless you receive compensation.  
• 24/7 availability for client concerns.  

Our attorneys are dedicated to maximizing your compensation so you can move on with your life after suffering devastating injuries and losses due to someone else’s negligence or carelessness.

Patchogue Bicycle Accident FAQs  

What should I do if the driver who hit me fled the scene?  

Uninsured motorist coverage may provide compensation. Witnesses or video may also help identify that driver or vehicle owner.Our firm can help explore options.  

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim? 

In most cases, three years, but government-related claims have shorter deadlines.  

Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?  

Yes, but the insurance company may argue it contributed to injuries. Legal representation can challenge this.  

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?  

New York’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover partial compensation even if you shared some blame. 

Contact a Patchogue Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today  

If someone else’s negligence caused your bicycle accident Patchogue, you deserve fair compensation. Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP is ready to fight for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.