Negligent drivers in Hackensack, New Jersey, cause bicycle crashes in various ways, such as failing to yield at intersections, speeding, distracted driving, or failing to check blind spots when changing lanes. These actions can lead to severe accidents, often resulting in serious injuries to cyclists. Poor road conditions, inadequate signage, and driving under the influence also contribute to the risk of bicycle accidents.
If you suffered an injury in one of these collisions, the skilled Hackensack bicycle accident attorneys at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C., can handle the legal steps of your claim or lawsuit. Our lawyers will thoroughly investigate your accident circumstances, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, we will take your case to court, fighting for your rights and the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Hackensack bicycle accident attorney, please call our office at (201) 585-9111 or contact us online today.
Why Choose Us?
Because bicyclists have extremely limited protection, they stand to suffer debilitating injuries in an accident scenario. If a negligent driver caused your bicycle accident, the skilled legal team at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C., is ready to fight for your interests.
Our attorneys have recovered in excess of $300 million on behalf of our injured clients over the years. We also have more than 90 years of combined trial experience, and we are not afraid to take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to compensate you fairly.
It was a pleasure having Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi take on my case. After a car accident left me jobless for several months, they helped get me back on my feet. They went above and beyond the call of duty!
I cannot express how grateful and pleased I am to have had Christopher DiGirolamo and his paralegal Christine Carrino represent me in connection with my personal injury action.
What had happened to me was an event that was about to completely change my life.
Initially I was unable to go to the offices of Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi because of my injuries. I had been hit by a motor vehicle while walking in a crosswalk. Christopher came to me. He offered not only expert legal advice but helped significantly with other things like obtaining police reports, how to handle telephone calls, photographing the scene and even advice about warding off “adjusters” who came knocking on my door. Most importantly, Christopher listened. His compassion, knowledge and understanding cannot be overstated.
I, as a lawyer with medical knowledge who needed a lawyer, would consider myself to be somewhat of a challenging client. Christopher took all this in stride and was fearless in offering guidance and advice when I was having difficulty looking at things objectively. Christopher allayed my anxieties and made me feel better each and every time we spoke. He put things in perspective for me while at the same time, not sugar coating the difficult days ahead that were in store for me, both physically and throughout the legal proceedings. Christopher asked me about my preferences and my choices. He was always interested in my ideas and my point of view. Christopher balanced my convictions with his undeniable objectivity and expertise.
Throughout the protracted course of discovery and pre-trial conferences, Christopher went out of his way to communicate with me and keep me informed. When Christopher was in court we engaged in many real time texting sessions. He respected my decisions about strategy and was constant in upholding his integrity. With Christopher’s tenacity and wit, the case was ultimately resolved without trial.
Christopher and the law firm of Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. made every effort to accommodate me in whatever way they could. I offer my thanks and gratitude.
I want to express my deepest appreciation to the firm “MAGGIANO, DiIGIROLAMO
& LIZZI P.C. and to Cristopher DiGirolamo, in particular, for professionally and timely manner. The most important result for me is the successful completion of the case.
I also wish to express my thanks to the paralegal Nirelly Echanique and to Katty, the nice lady at the front desk.
Without any hesitation, I would recommend your firm to others.
Many thanks for your fruitful work.
How Much Money Is My Hackensack Bike Accident Case Worth?
The value of a bicycle accident case in Hackensack, New Jersey, can vary significantly depending on various factors. Each case is unique, and the amount you may recover depends on the severity of your injuries, the extent of your medical expenses, and the effects the accident has had on your overall well-being. Injured bicycle accident victims may be eligible to recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage.
In cases where injuries are severe or long-term, additional compensation may be awarded to cover future medical expenses, rehabilitation, and diminished earning capacity. Emotional distress and reduced quality of life may also be considered when determining the value of your case.
New Jersey’s no-fault insurance laws play an important role in bicycle accident cases. Under these laws, if you suffered an injury in a bicycle accident, you will typically seek compensation for your medical expenses through your own auto insurance policy’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Even though you were riding a bicycle, your PIP coverage can apply if you have an auto insurance policy.
This system is designed to ensure that accident victims can receive medical coverage quickly, regardless of who was at fault. If you do not have auto insurance, you can seek PIP benefits through a household member’s policy. For individuals without access to any auto insurance, the New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association (NJPLIGA) may provide limited benefits.
While New Jersey’s no-fault system generally limits your ability to sue, there are exceptions that allow you to file a third-party claim against a negligent driver. If your injuries are considered serious under New Jersey law, you may be eligible to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a personal injury claim directly against the at-fault driver. Serious injuries typically include permanent disfigurement, significant scarring, loss of a body part, or injuries that result in permanent disability. Filing a third-party claim allows you to seek additional compensation beyond what your PIP coverage provides, including damages for pain and suffering.
Most Common Locations for Bicycle Accidents in Hackensack
In Hackensack, New Jersey, bicycle collisions resulting from negligent drivers tend to occur in certain common locations where traffic patterns, road conditions, and driver behavior increase the risk of collisions. Intersections are among the most frequent sites for bicycle accidents. These areas require drivers to pay close attention to traffic signals, pedestrians, and cyclists. Unfortunately, distracted driving, failure to yield, and speeding often lead to drivers overlooking bicyclists. Intersections such as those along busy roads like Main Street and Passaic Street are particularly prone to accidents due to heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Another common location for bicycle crashes is along major roadways with multiple lanes. Roads such as River Street and Essex Street in Hackensack often experience significant congestion. Drivers attempting to change lanes or make turns may fail to check their blind spots, putting cyclists at serious risk. In some cases, drivers may underestimate the speed of an approaching bicycle or fail to provide enough space when passing, increasing the likelihood of a collision.
Parking lots are also frequent sites for bicycle accidents. In busy commercial areas like those near Riverside Square Mall or along Hackensack Avenue, drivers often back out of parking spaces without noticing a cyclist riding through the lot. Limited visibility and distracted drivers rushing to enter or exit parking areas contribute to these types of accidents.
Residential streets are another concern – especially in neighborhoods where parked cars line the roads. Drivers pulling out of driveways or opening car doors without checking for approaching cyclists can easily cause accidents. These incidents, known as “dooring” accidents, are common in areas with limited bike lanes or narrow streets.
Construction zones also pose a risk to cyclists. When construction narrows roadways or alters traffic patterns, drivers may become confused or careless, putting cyclists in danger. In some cases, inadequate signage or poorly marked detours can force cyclists into unsafe positions on the road.
Most Common Types of Bicycle Accidents in Hackensack
In Hackensack, New Jersey, bicycle accidents due to negligent drivers are unfortunately common and can happen in a variety of ways. One of the most frequent types of accidents is the right-hook collision.
This occurs when a driver makes a right turn at an intersection or driveway without noticing a cyclist traveling in the same direction. The driver may cut off the cyclist, causing a crash. This type of accident is especially common on busy streets like Main Street or Passaic Street, where traffic congestion and frequent turns increase the risk.
Another common accident is the left-turn collision. This happens when a driver making a left turn fails to yield to an oncoming cyclist traveling straight through the intersection. Drivers may misjudge the cyclist’s speed or fail to see them altogether. These incidents are particularly dangerous because they often occur at higher speeds and with little time for the cyclist to react.
“Dooring” accidents are another common type of collision in Hackensack. These accidents occur when a driver or passenger opens a car door directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist. Because cyclists often ride close to parked cars in areas without designated bike lanes, they have little time to avoid the sudden obstacle. Streets with heavy curbside parking, such as those near residential areas or commercial districts, are particularly prone to dooring incidents.
Rear-end collisions are also common, often resulting from distracted or impatient drivers who fail to notice a cyclist ahead. These accidents are especially dangerous because they frequently occur at higher speeds, increasing the risk of serious injury.
In some cases, sideswipe accidents occur when drivers pass too closely to cyclists without allowing enough space. This often happens on narrow streets or in areas where bike lanes are not clearly marked. Drivers who fail to check their mirrors or who become distracted are more likely to cause these collisions.
Most Common Hackensack Bicycle Accident Injuries
Victims of bicycle crashes in Hackensack, New Jersey, resulting from driver negligence, can suffer a wide range of physical and mental injuries. These injuries may vary in severity depending on the nature of the accident, the speeds of the vehicles involved, and the specific circumstances surrounding the crash.
One of the most common injuries in bicycle accidents is broken bones. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable to fractures in the arms, legs, wrists, and collarbones, as they often use their limbs to try and break their fall or protect themselves. More severe fractures, such as broken hips or pelvises, can occur in higher-impact collisions, leading to long recovery times and sometimes requiring surgery.
Head injuries are also a major concern. Even if a cyclist is wearing a helmet, they can still suffer from concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or skull fractures. These injuries can have long-lasting effects, including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and permanent cognitive impairment. Concussions, in particular, may lead to post-concussion syndrome, where symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue persist for months or even years after the crash.
Spinal cord injuries are another serious risk in bicycle accidents. A collision with a vehicle can cause whiplash or more severe spinal cord damage, potentially resulting in partial or total paralysis. Injuries to the back or neck can lead to long-term pain, limited mobility, and the need for extensive rehabilitation.
In addition to these physical injuries, many bicycle crash victims suffer mental and emotional trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common mental health issue following a serious accident. Victims may experience flashbacks, nightmares, or intense fear when riding a bike again. Anxiety and depression can also result from the trauma, especially if the accident leads to a significant change in the victim’s lifestyle, such as being unable to return to work or engage in activities they once enjoyed.
Fighting the Insurance Company in a Hackensack Bike Accident Case
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in Hackensack, New Jersey, due to a negligent driver, the skilled lawyers at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C., are here to fight the insurance company on your behalf. Dealing with insurance companies can be incredibly frustrating, especially when they try to minimize your claim or deny you the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies are focused on their bottom line, and their goal is often to pay as little as possible, even if you’ve suffered serious injuries.
Our experienced bicycle accident attorneys understand how insurance companies operate and are prepared to take the necessary steps to ensure you are treated fairly. First, we will thoroughly investigate your case, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to support your claim. This helps establish the full extent of your injuries and the driver’s liability.
Next, we’ll handle all communication with the insurance company, saving you from the stress and pressure they may try to put on you. Insurance adjusters often use tactics to downplay the severity of your injuries or get you to settle quickly for less than you deserve. Our attorneys are skilled in negotiating with insurance companies and will work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement covering all your losses.
If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we won’t hesitate to take your case to court. We are prepared to represent you in a third-party lawsuit and present a strong case in front of a judge or jury. We will fight for your rights every step of the way, ensuring that you are compensated for all of your losses, including physical and emotional damages.
In Hackensack, New Jersey, our lawyers are committed to providing you with the legal support you need to navigate your bicycle accident case and secure the full compensation you deserve.
Verdicts and Settlements
$250,000 - Motor Vehicle Accident
To 84 year old man that was sideswiped by moving car as he entered street to open his car door. He initially had no complaint of pain and refused emergency room 2 weeks later while visiting his family doctor an X-ray was done as a precaution and found a vertebral fracture and he had emergency surgery $250,000 was maximum available coverage.
$1,170,000 - Motor Vehicle Crash
For an elderly couple suffering multiple injuries in an auto accident and aggravated by injuries suffered a few months later in a subsequent auto accident.
$1,300,000 - Motor Vehicle Crash
For 76 year old man that was struck by a vehicle that was traveling in reverse and ran over his leg. He required multiple surgeries and ultimately was forced to have an above knee amputation.
Most Important Steps to Take Following a Hackensack Bicycle Accident
After a bicycle accident in Hackensack, New Jersey, taking the right steps is important for protecting your health and securing compensation. The first and most important step is to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations. This includes attending all medical appointments, adhering to prescribed treatments, and documenting any changes in your condition. Consistent medical care not only helps you recover but also strengthens your case by providing a clear link between the accident and your injuries.
Next, obtain a copy of the police report. The report will contain vital information such as the details of the accident, witness statements, and any citations issued to the driver. This document is essential for establishing fault and supporting your claims. Additionally, gather any other evidence you can, such as photographs of the accident scene, damage to your bicycle, and your injuries. Witness statements and video footage from nearby cameras, if available, can also strengthen your case.
Finally, speaking with the knowledgeable Hackensack bicycle accident lawyers at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C., is essential. We will carefully guide you through the legal process, explain your rights, and handle all dealings with insurance companies. We can also preserve evidence and gather additional proof if necessary. By following these steps and having skilled legal support, you’ll be in a much stronger position to recover the compensation you deserve.
Call a Skilled Hackensack Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
At Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C., our experienced attorneys will be your advocates throughout the entire process. We will aggressively fight for your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Hackensack bicycle accident attorney, please call our office at (201) 585-9111 or contact us online right away.
