The League of American Bicyclists is celebrating National Bike Month in May to promote bicycling. Whether you are an avid cyclist an occasional rider, the organization encourages you to get out and ride this month. As you do, be sure to keep safety in mind.
According to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, there were 6,076 motor vehicle-bicycle crashes in the State of New York in 2011. As a result, 57 people lost their lives – all of them bicyclists. In addition, 6,019 people received non-fatal injuries with only 130 of those being occupants of motor vehicles.
The City of New York has come under fire in recent years for policies regarding the investigation of bicycle and pedestrian accidents. Until a recent change, the New York Police Department investigated these accidents only if someone was killed or was expected to die. As a result, motorists who were at fault in collisions with bicycles were never held accountable.
The new policy calls for police to investigate when there has been a critical injury or when a duty captain believes the extent of the injuries or unique circumstances of a collision warrant an investigation.
Safety Tips
Nationally, motor vehicle drivers are at fault in three out of five collisions involving motor vehicle s and bicycles. The League of American Bicyclists encourages cyclists to follow six simple rules of the road to keep safe while biking:
- Follow the law.
- Be predictable.
- Be conspicuous.
- Think ahead.
- Ride ready.
- Keep your cool.
National Bike Month events include Bike to Work Week beginning May 13 2013, culminating with Bike to Work Day on May 17, 2013. For additional events in your area, the League’s website offers a tool that allows you to search for local events.
Compensation for New York/New Jersey Bicycle Accidents
If you have been injured in an accident involving a bicycle, or have lost a loved one as a result of one, you could be entitled to compensation. While no amount of money can bring back a loved one or erase the physical and emotional pain suffered in an accident, the law does provide compensation for victims and their families.
Contact the New York/New Jersey injury attorneys at Ginarte Gonzalez Winograd L.L.P., to find out what legal options you may have. With seven offices conveniently located in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area, we have an office near you. Call 888-446-2783 or fill out our online contact form for your free consultation.