The Best Bicycle Accident Lawyer New York Fights for Full Compensation

What Does No-Fault Insurance Cover for Bicycle Accidents?

In New York, no-fault insurance is designed to help injured parties get quick medical care and wage replacement after a crash without needing to prove who was at fault. For most motor vehicle accidents, this system works fairly well since accident victims can get the financial support they need without getting delayed at court.

But when it comes to bicycle accidents, especially those involving e-bikes or shared roadways, things get complicated. If you were hit by a car while riding your bicycle, you are covered under the driver’s no-fault insurance. No-fault insurance will cover:

• medical treatment
• lost wages (up to 80% of your salary)
• basic out-of-pocket expenses like transportation to appointments

The problem is that you can be reimbursed up to a limit of $50,000 for economic losses. But here’s the catch. If your injuries are serious, that amount won’t go far.

When Does Your Attorney Suggest Filing a Lawsuit?

Bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries that cannot be covered by no-fault insurance. A no-fault claim doesn’t cover damages from non-economic losses such as pain and suffering. You can pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit for:

• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

The best bike accident attorneys review your medical records and speak directly with your doctors to assess whether your injuries meet the legal threshold for a personal injury lawsuit. Reputable law firms in New York also have access to expert witnesses such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals who can strengthen your case with evidence and testimony.

Deadline for Filing Your Claim

Unfortunately, time is not on your side after a bicycle accident. Under New York’s no-fault rules, you have just 30 days from the date of the accident to file your no-fault claim with the insurer. Miss that deadline, and your medical bills could fall entirely on you even if the bike accident wasn’t your fault.

If you are unsure about where to send the claim or how to properly fill it out, consult a bicycle accident attorney right away. They’ll help you avoid errors that can delay your benefits. Some bike crash injuries are serious enough to file a lawsuit. New York law gives you 3 years from the date of the bike accident to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party.

There’s one more thing to note. If your claim involves a government entity, like if you were hit by an MTA bus or injured on a city-maintained bike lane, then your case requires a Notice of Claim within 90 days. After that, you have one year and 90 days to file a lawsuit.

How Much Will It Cost to Hire the Best Bicycle Accident Lawyer in New York?

One of the most common concerns for accident victims is the cost of hiring an attorney. Fortunately, most personal injury lawyers, including top-rated bicycle accident lawyers in New York, work on a contingency fee basis.

This means your accident attorney only gets paid if you win your case, taking a percentage of your settlement or award. If your case doesn't result in a win, you won’t owe the lawyer any legal fees.