Bicycles have become a widely used form of transportation for many people across the United State of America. Especially for those who live in urban areas where cars or other motor vehicles are not necessarily the easiest or cheapest way to get around. Not only do bicycles offer a good way to get some exercise, but they also provide an excellent way to commute that allows you to reduce your carbon footprint.
However, despite the benefits that bicycles offer, it is also important to know that riding a bicycle can also put you in a uniquely dangerous position. Not only are they more susceptible to potential hazards you may encounter on roads or sidewalks, but they can also make you more vulnerable when it comes to sustaining severe injuries if you get into an accident. Insurance coverage for bicycle accidents can be tricky due to its circumstantial nature. If you were the victim of a bicycle accident and are curious to know what your next steps should be, reach out to the Queens personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of George Poulos for a free consultation.
What kind of bicycle accidents does insurance cover?
First and foremost, perhaps the most dangerous accident you can get into while riding a bicycle is with a motor vehicle. Despite the fact that the state of New York is one of 12 no-fault states in the country, that does not mean you will not receive any coverage from insurance if you are involved in a bicycle accident. If a vehicle of any kind makes contact with you while you are operating your bicycle, the liable driver’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will pay for your medical bills if you sustained any injuries. You can also file a personal injury claim with your auto insurance provider depending on the situation and the severity of your injuries.
Bicycle accidents with both pedestrians and other cyclists work very similarly. In both cases, if either the pedestrian or cyclist were at fault for the accident that caused your injuries, their homeowners and renters insurance will cover the costs of your medical expenses. However, if you were the one liable for the collision, then you will have to use your own health insurance to pay for any immediate and ongoing treatment. It should also be noted that if you are at fault for the accident, a personal injury claim could be filed against your homeowners and renters insurance provider.
If you crash into a stationary object like a tree or a pole while riding your bicycle, any accrued medical expenses due to injuries will be covered by your health insurance company. Although, if you believe that another party was responsible for the circumstances that caused your accident, you can pursue a personal injury claim with their insurance provider. In this scenario, having an experienced personal injury attorney will be essential to successfully navigate this process.
