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Filing a Claim
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in New Jersey, taking the right steps can make a significant difference in how your claim progresses. Bicycle accidents can result in severe injuries, making it important to understand the process for filing a claim to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Here, we’ll outline the key steps for filing a bicycle accident claim in New Jersey to help you stay informed and prepared.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health should always come first. Even if you feel fine after the accident, some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later. Seeking medical attention right away helps protect your health and creates a medical record that can be crucial to your claim. This documentation will connect your injuries to the accident, which is vital for seeking compensation.
Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
After a bicycle accident, it’s important to contact the police and file an official report. This report can be a key piece of evidence in your claim, as it will contain details about the accident, such as the location, the individuals involved, and the officer’s initial assessment of fault. Make sure to provide accurate information to the officer and request a copy of the report once it’s available.
Collect Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, gathering evidence at the scene can strengthen your claim. Take photos of the accident site, including your bicycle, the vehicle involved, and any visible injuries you sustained. If there are skid marks, damaged property, or relevant road conditions, be sure to document these as well. Additionally, collect the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident. Witness statements can be valuable when determining fault.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Even though you were on a bicycle, your auto insurance may still come into play, depending on the circumstances of the accident. New Jersey’s no-fault insurance system allows for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which may cover medical bills if a vehicle was involved in the accident. Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, but avoid providing detailed statements until you’ve consulted with a New Jersey bicycle accident lawyer.
Keep Track of Medical Treatment and Expenses
As you recover, maintain detailed records of your medical treatment. This includes doctor visits, physical therapy sessions, prescriptions, and any other related medical expenses. Keep copies of all bills and receipts, as these will be needed to calculate the total damages you are entitled to seek in your claim.
Consult with a New Jersey Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicycle accident claims can involve several parties and different types of insurance coverage, so it’s important to understand your legal options. Consulting with a New Jersey bicycle accident lawyer can help you assess the strength of your case, determine liability, and pursue compensation for your injuries. At the Law Offices of David A. DiBrigida, we have extensive experience helping clients seek the compensation they deserve after bicycle accidents.
File Your Claim Within the Statute of Limitations
In New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This may seem like a long time, but building a strong case requires gathering evidence, medical records, and other essential documents. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to seek compensation. It’s important to act promptly to protect your legal rights.
Filing a bicycle accident claim in New Jersey involves several steps, but knowing what to do can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation. Seeking medical attention, documenting the accident, and consulting with a lawyer are key actions to take after an accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, contact the Law Offices of David A. DiBrigida for a consultation. We are here to guide you through the legal process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
