Two Cyclists Injured in Separate Upper West Side Accidents: What Victims of Bike Accidents Can Do

Yesterday morning, the Upper West Side of  Manhattan witnessed two disturbing incidents where cyclists were struck by vehicles within 20 minutes of each other. These accidents, which occurred at Broadway near 108th Street and Central Park West near 106th Street, highlight the constant dangers cyclists face on New York City streets. If you’ve been involved in a similar accident, understanding your legal options is crucial. Here’s what you need to know to protect your rights and pursue justice after a bike accident.

First Incident involving a bicyclist struck by a vehicle: Broadway at 108th Street

At approximately 8:30 a.m., a 64-year-old cyclist was struck by a vehicle while riding southbound on Broadway. The driver, instead of staying to help, fled the scene after offering a brief apology. The injured cyclist was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital with injuries to his arm and leg. The incident is currently being investigated as a hit-and-run.

Second Incident involving a bicyclist struck by a vehicle: Central Park West at 106th Street

Just 20 minutes after the first incident, another cyclist was struck at the intersection of Central Park West and 106th Street, an area with a protected bike lane. While the details of this incident are still emerging, it underscores that even in areas designed for cyclist safety, accidents can and do happen.

What to Do After a Bike Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, whether it’s a hit-and-run or a collision in a bike lane, it’s important to take the following steps:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention
  Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional since some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Report the Accident
  Always report the accident to the police, even if the driver has fled the scene. A police report will be crucial for any legal action or insurance claims you may need to pursue.
• Gather Evidence
  If possible, collect evidence from the scene, such as photos of your bike, the vehicle involved, your injuries, and any surrounding conditions. If there were witnesses, try to get their contact information.
• Consult a Bike Accident Lawyer
  A bicycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your case, especially in situations involving hit-and-run drivers or severe injuries. They can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Bicycle Accident Lawyer

When it comes to bike accidents, not just any lawyer will do. It’s not enough that your attorney is familiar with local bike laws; what you truly need is someone who not only knows the law but is also a feared trial lawyer. Insurance companies often try to lowball settlements, hoping that victims will accept less than they deserve. However, when you have a lawyer known for their trial skills and willingness to take a case to court, insurance companies are more likely to offer a fair settlement from the start.

At Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, we have a long history of successfully representing cyclists who have been injured in accidents. Notably, activist Mary Beth Kelly, a member of Transportation Alternatives, trusted us to handle the lawsuit for her husband after he was struck by an NYPD truck while riding his bike on the greenway. In another tragic case, the family of a retired Supreme Court judge came to us after she was killed by a U.S. Postal truck while riding her bike in downtown Manhattan. In both cases, our firm fought tirelessly to secure justice for the victims and their families.

The reputation of our personal injury attorneys as relentless trial lawyers ensures that insurance companies know we won’t hesitate to go to court if a settlement offer is too low. This approach has consistently resulted in higher settlements and verdicts for our clients, providing them with the financial support they need to recover and move forward.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident, it’s essential to act quickly and choose a lawyer who not only understands the law but is also prepared to fight fiercely on your behalf. At Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of cyclists and ensuring they receive the justice they deserve. Contact us today at 212-943-1090 for a free consultation and let us help you navigate this challenging time.