Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle Accidents in NYC: Your Rights, Your Recovery, and What to Do Next

Whether you’re weaving through traffic on your way to work, cruising along the Hudson River Greenway, or just enjoying a sunny afternoon in Central Park, cycling gives you a sense of freedom and connection to the city that’s hard to beat. But as any New York cyclist knows, sharing the road with cars, trucks, buses, and even pedestrians can be risky business.

Bicycle accidents in NYC are, unfortunately, all too common. The city has made huge strides in recent years—adding bike lanes, launching Citi Bike, and encouraging more people to ride—but accidents still happen every day. If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident, you probably have a lot of questions: Who’s responsible? What are my rights? How do I pay my medical bills? And what should I do next?

At Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, we’ve helped hundreds of New Yorkers navigate the aftermath of bicycle accidents. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself, your health, and your legal rights.

Why Are Bicycle Accidents So Common in NYC?

Let’s be honest: New York City is a tough place to ride a bike. The streets are crowded, the traffic is relentless, and not everyone is paying attention. Here are some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents in the city:

  • Dooring: A driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of a cyclist. It happens in a split second and can cause serious injuries.
  • Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or just not looking for cyclists.
  • Failure to Yield: Cars turning left or right without checking for bikes in the crosswalk or bike lane.
  • Unsafe Lane Changes: Vehicles swerving into bike lanes or cutting off cyclists.
  • Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement can send a cyclist flying.
  • Aggressive Driving: Honking, tailgating, or intentionally crowding cyclists out of their lane.

Even the most experienced and cautious cyclist can find themselves in a dangerous situation. And when a bike collides with a car, the cyclist almost always comes out worse.

What to Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident

If you’re involved in a bicycle accident, your first priority is your health and safety. Here’s what to do, step by step:

  1. Get to Safety: If you can, move yourself and your bike out of traffic.
  2. Call 911: Even if you think your injuries are minor, call the police. You’ll want an official accident report.
  3. Get Medical Attention: Adrenaline can mask pain. Get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
  4. Exchange Information: Get the driver’s name, contact info, insurance details, and license plate number. If there are witnesses, get their info too.
  5. Document the Scene: Take photos of your bike, the vehicle, your injuries, and the accident scene. The more details, the better.
  6. Don’t Admit Fault: Accidents are confusing. Don’t apologize or say it was your fault, even if you’re unsure.
  7. Keep Records: Save all medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence related to the accident.

And most importantly: Don’t try to tough it out alone. Even if you feel okay, injuries can show up hours or days later. And dealing with insurance companies can be a headache—especially when you’re trying to recover.

Who’s Responsible for a Bicycle Accident in NYC?

New York is a “comparative negligence” state, which means more than one person can be at fault for an accident. The good news? Even if you were partially responsible, you may still be entitled to compensation.

Here are some common scenarios:

  • Driver at Fault: If a driver was distracted, speeding, failed to yield, or broke a traffic law, they’re likely responsible.
  • Cyclist at Fault: If you ran a red light or were riding against traffic, you may share some responsibility.
  • City or Property Owner at Fault: If poor road conditions or a dangerous construction site caused your accident, the city or property owner could be liable.

Every case is unique, and determining fault can be complicated. That’s why it’s so important to talk to an experienced personal injury attorney who understands NYC’s laws and streets.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Bicycle Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, physical therapy, medication, and future medical care.
  • Lost Wages: If you can’t work because of your injuries.
  • Pain and Suffering: For physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Property Damage: To repair or replace your bike and gear.

Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or blame you for the accident. Don’t let them. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can make all the difference.

Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-changing trauma. Some of the most common include:

  • Broken bones
  • Head injuries and concussions (even with a helmet)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Cuts, bruises, and road rash
  • Dental and facial injuries
  • Internal injuries

Some injuries may not be obvious right away. Always get checked out by a medical professional, and follow up if new symptoms appear.

How to Protect Yourself as a Cyclist in NYC

While you can’t control everything on the road, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  • Wear a helmet. It’s not just smart—it’s the law for riders under 14.
  • Use bike lanes when available. Stay visible and predictable.
  • Obey traffic laws. Stop at red lights and ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Stay alert. Watch for car doors, turning vehicles, and pedestrians.
  • Use lights and reflectors. Especially at night or in bad weather.
  • Don’t assume drivers see you. Make eye contact when possible.

Even the safest cyclist can be hit by a careless driver. If it happens to you, know your rights.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer After a Bicycle Accident

Dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills pile up, insurance companies call, and you’re left trying to heal and make sense of it all. That’s where we come in. At Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, we’re passionate about helping NYC cyclists get the justice and compensation they deserve. We’ve served the city for more than 80 years, we know the law, and we know how to fight for you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait. Reach out for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you get back on the road—stronger than ever.

Disclaimer: This post is for legal education purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. No attorney-client relationship has been formed. To the extent this post constitutes attorney advertising, past results do not guarantee similar outcomes.