New York is densely populated with over 8.3 million people living in the small land area at the southern tip of the United States. The city offers an ideal cityscape with towering skyscrapers and scenic parks to explore. Given the rise of vehicular accidents across the country, the state has enacted several bike laws to keep everyone safe. It includes the NY Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL), which indicates your rights and privileges while on the road.
Given, bicyclists are no match when hit by a large vehicle even when wearing proper safety gear. This is because bicycles have smaller frames and lesser safety harnesses than cars and trucks that offer some form of protection. If you get into an uncomfortable state compromising life and safety, a New York bicycle accident lawyer can help untangle the situation. These professionals provide legal assistance and are experts at the subject matter.
What exactly is the New York Bicycle Law?
Biker safety is the primary concern for enacting laws that revolve around the use of equipment, bike standards, and designated lanes. The legislation stipulates that bicyclists below the age of 14 should wear certified safety gear.
Under such guidelines, cyclists are also allowed to share roads and public highways except for expressways and interstate highways. Localities are provided with the jurisdiction of whether to allow bikers access to sideways. Nonetheless, most localities allow children to use sidewalks for safety purposes.
Because bicycle riders are provided with the same lane as motorists, accidents and untoward incidents happen. Such instances consider the actions of persons involved and whether cases can be filed against the person at fault.
Critical Steps to Follow when Involved in a Bicycle Accident
Being involved in any form of a vehicular accident, including bicycling, is unsettling and even traumatic. Knowing the appropriate steps after the accident tremendously impacts the future outcome of your possible case.
A smart decision will not only come from a collected attitude and behavior but also ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Nonetheless, there are critical steps to follow when you are involved in a bike accident.
- Keep yourself safe by moving away from traffic.
- Remain calm and assess any injuries you have incurred. If you can, call the emergency hotline and wait for the ambulance to arrive.
- Get as much information as you can, including the plate number of the other vehicle involved, driver’s contacts, and their insurance.
- Wait for the authorities so you can have the accident legally documented. Such a file includes critical information that can be used by your New York bicycle accident lawyer during the court proceedings.
- Preserve all shreds of evidence, including photos of the accident, unwashed clothes, and the unrepaired bicycle.
Why You Need a Proper Court Representation for Your Bicycle Accident
Road safety is an important element in every state, one that is strongly advocated around New York. Road usage is a privilege provided by the government, and people are obliged to correctly use such facilities to prevent accidents or any possible injuries.
Every New Yorker is given the right to use roadways, subject to all applicable duties similar to large-vehicle drivers. Involvement in a biking accident will require you to get a New York bicycle accident lawyer for proper court representation.
It is always imperative to have a professional represent you at court to mitigate all possible technicalities. An accident lawyer will ensure you are accorded with the right due process, and possible sentences are lessened if you are at fault.
