Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in New Jersey
Cyclists share the road with cars, trucks, and buses every day, and that exposure can result in serious harm when another party acts carelessly. Understanding the common causes of bicycle accidents in New Jersey can be an important first step if you’re trying to make sense of what happened to you. A bicycle accident lawyer at GGL Injury Lawyers can review the details of your crash and help you understand your legal options.
State law recognizes cyclists as having the same rights and responsibilities as other road users, but that doesn’t mean drivers always honor those rights. When a bicycle crash happens because of someone else’s negligence, you may be able to pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, as well as other losses including emotional trauma and property damages.
Driver Negligence
Motorist behavior is one of the leading contributors to bicycle crashes in New Jersey. Some of the most common forms of driver negligence include:
- Driving while distracted, including phone use
- Failing to yield at intersections and crosswalks
- Making unsafe lane changes into a cyclist’s path
- Dooring by drivers or passengers exiting parked vehicles
- Speeding in areas with heavy bicycle traffic
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
When a bicycle accident involves a negligent driver, building a strong case requires acting fast. Our attorneys at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq secure witness statements, traffic camera footage, and police reports before that information disappears. We prepare every case for trial from the beginning, so we’re never in a weak or compromised position if an insurer refuses to negotiate fairly.
How Do Road Hazards Contribute to Bicycle Accidents?
Beyond driver behavior, dangerous road and infrastructure conditions are frequent reasons for many bicycle crashes across New Jersey. Common hazards that put cyclists at risk include:
- Potholes and uneven pavement
- Missing or faded lane markings
- Inadequate or absent bike lanes
- Poor maintenance of shoulders and curbs
- Defective traffic signals or missing signage
- Debris or obstructions left on roadways
These cases carry different procedural requirements than standard negligence claims. Under New Jersey Revised Statutes § 59:8-8, injured parties must file a notice of claim within 90 days of the incident before pursuing a lawsuit against a government entity. Missing that deadline can bar your claim entirely, which is why connecting with an attorney as soon as possible matters tremendously to the potential success of your claim.
Your Timeline for Filing a Bicycle Injury Claim
Once you understand what caused your bike crash, your next priority is protecting your legal rights according to New Jersey law. Under N.J. Stat. Ann. § 2A:14-2, injured cyclists generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim to recover damages. That timeline may initially feel generous, but evidence disappears, and witnesses become harder to reach as time passes.
At Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq, our attorneys move promptly to preserve critical evidence, identify all potentially liable parties, and position your bike accident claim for the strongest possible outcome. We’ve helped clients across the state navigate bicycle injury law and will fight for your full compensation.
Contact a New Jersey Attorney About the Frequent Causes of Bike Crashes
Knowing the common causes of bicycle accidents in New Jersey is important, but understanding your legal rights is what allows you to act on that knowledge. Reach out to Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq today for a free consultation, and let our team help you pursue accountability and a path to recovery.
