Cyclists are some of the most vulnerable people on New Jersey roads.
When a car, truck, or commercial vehicle strikes a bicycle, the rider often absorbs the full impact. Even at moderate speeds, the injuries can be life-changing.
At Morris Downing Sherred, we represent injured cyclists throughout New Jersey. We understand the medical, insurance, and liability issues unique to bicycle accident cases — and we pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of the injuries involved.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in New Jersey
Many bicycle crashes are caused by preventable driver negligence, including:
- Drivers making left turns in front of cyclists
- Unsafe passing
- Distracted driving
- Doorings (opening a vehicle door into a cyclist’s path)
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Speeding in residential areas
- Drunk or impaired driving
Drivers often claim they “didn’t see” the cyclist. That does not excuse negligence.
New Jersey law requires motorists to share the road safely.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Because cyclists lack the protection of a vehicle frame, airbags, or seatbelts, injuries are frequently severe.
We regularly see:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures requiring surgery
- Facial and dental injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Road rash with permanent scarring
- Permanent disability
Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer significant head trauma.
Medical documentation and early evaluation are critical in these cases.
Who Pays for a Bicycle Accident?
Most bicycle accident claims proceed against the at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy.
However, depending on the circumstances, additional sources of recovery may include:
- Underinsured motorist coverage
- Uninsured motorist coverage in hit-and-run cases
- Commercial vehicle insurance policies
- Property owners if hazardous roadway conditions contributed
- Government entities in certain roadway design cases
Identifying all available coverage is essential, particularly when injuries are severe.
What If the Driver Claims You Were at Fault?
Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame onto cyclists by arguing:
- The cyclist was outside a bike lane
- The cyclist failed to signal
- The cyclist was riding too fast
- The cyclist was not wearing bright clothing
New Jersey follows comparative negligence rules. Even if a cyclist is partially at fault, recovery may still be possible.
Each case requires a careful review of:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Surveillance footage
- Traffic laws
- Roadway markings
- Vehicle damage patterns
Do You Have to Own a Car to Have Insurance Coverage?
Many people do not realize that their own auto policy may provide coverage even if they were injured while riding a bicycle.
In some situations, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or UM/UIM coverage may apply. Policy language matters, and these issues should be evaluated promptly.
How Much Is a Bicycle Accident Case Worth?
The value of a bicycle accident claim depends on:
- Severity and permanence of injuries
- Surgeries and long-term treatment
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Available insurance limits
Serious cycling injuries often involve extended rehabilitation and permanent limitations. We evaluate both current and future damages before advising on settlement decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I was hit in a bike lane?
Drivers still have a duty to operate safely. Being in a bike lane does not eliminate disputes over fault, but it can be a significant factor in liability.
What if the driver fled the scene?
Hit-and-run bicycle accidents often proceed under uninsured motorist coverage. Prompt reporting is essential.
What if the accident involved a commercial vehicle?
Commercial policies may provide higher insurance limits. These cases often involve additional investigation into company safety practices.
How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in New Jersey?
Strict time limits apply. Evidence can disappear quickly, so early consultation is strongly recommended.
Speak With a New Jersey Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a bicycle accident in New Jersey, you do not have to navigate the insurance process alone.
Serious injuries deserve serious representation.
Contact Morris Downing Sherred to schedule a consultation. We will review the facts of your accident, evaluate available insurance coverage, and explain your legal options clearly.
Call today or contact us online to speak with a bicycle accident attorney.
