Bicycle Accidents Lawyer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Bicycle accidents are unfortunately common in our bustling city of Philadelphia and throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. As your advocates at H. Rosen Law, P.C., we're committed to helping you navigate these challenging times. Our goal is to provide you with the essential information you need to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve because we've seen the physical and emotional toll it can take. Know that you're not alone in this.  

We're committed to providing honest, trustworthy legal services that truly make a difference in our clients' lives. Based in Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, including Harrisburg and Scranton. We understand the complexities of bicycle accident laws in our state and are here to help you deal with your situation. If you've been in a bicycle accident, don't face it alone. Reach out to us at H. Rosen Law, P.C. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you so that together, we can pursue the compensation you deserve. 

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident  

Dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming and stressful. Your actions in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact your ability to receive the compensation you deserve. 

1. Call 911. In the aftermath of an accident, your safety is paramount. The first thing you should do is call 911. This ensures that medical assistance and law enforcement are dispatched to the scene promptly. 

2. Get Driver’s/Witnesses Information. Next, gather as much information as possible from the driver involved in the accident and any witnesses. This data can prove invaluable when it comes to insurance matters and potential legal proceedings. 

3. Document Details. Don't forget to document the scene of the accident. Take pictures of the damage to your bicycle, the surrounding area, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. These details could be critical pieces of evidence later on. 

4. Obtain Medical Assistance. Even if you feel fine, it's crucial to seek medical attention. Some injuries aren't immediately apparent, and only a medical professional can accurately assess your condition.  

5. Hire Personal Injury Attorney. Finally, consider hiring a personal injury attorney. At H. Rosen Law, P.C., we're here to guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. 

No matter what you do, know that you have rights after a bicycle accident. Don't hesitate to fight for them -- contact an auto accidents attorney.

Pennsylvania Laws Affecting Bicycle Riders  

Pennsylvania laws affect bicycle riders, illustrating the rights, responsibilities, and legal protections of cyclists on our roads. Understanding Pennsylvania laws can empower you to ride safely and assert your rights effectively.  

Bicycle Riders 

Here are the laws that bicycle riders must follow: 

• Road Rules Application: In Pennsylvania, bicycles are considered vehicles, and as such, riders are required to abide by the same traffic laws as motor vehicles. This includes obeying traffic signals, signs, and lane markings. 

• Riding Position: Bicycle riders are required to ride as close as possible to the right roadside, except when passing another bicycle or vehicle, preparing for a left turn, or when necessary to avoid unsafe conditions. 

• Helmet Law: Any bicycle rider under the age of 12 is obligated to wear a helmet when riding on public streets, public paths, or public rights-of-way. 

• Lighting Requirements: Bicycles ridden between sunset and sunrise must be equipped with a front lamp emitting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet, a rear reflector visible from 500 feet to 50 feet, and an amber reflector on each side. 

• Signal Requirements: When making turns, cyclists must use hand signals to indicate their intentions to other road users. The signals should be given continuously for at least the last 100 feet traveled by the bicycle before making a turn, unless both hands are needed to control or operate the bicycle. 

• Riding Abreast: Riders are generally not allowed to ride more than two abreast, except on paths or parts of roads set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. 

• Duty to Yield: Bicycle riders must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and must give an audible signal when overtaking a pedestrian. 

Vehicles 

Motorists in Pennsylvania also have a role to play in ensuring the safety of bicycle riders. Understanding and adhering to the laws regarding cyclists can prevent accidents and save lives. Here are some key responsibilities that drivers should be aware of: 

• Safe Passing Law: In Pennsylvania, motorists must provide a four-feet buffer when passing a bicycle. The law also allows drivers to cross the center yellow line, when safe and clear, to provide the necessary clearance to pass the bicyclist. 

• No Turn Interference: Under Pennsylvania law, it is illegal for a motorist to make a right turn that interferes with a bicyclist going straight on a roadway or shoulder. 

• Opening Parked Vehicle Doors: Motorists and passengers are required to check for passing traffic, including bicyclists, before opening their vehicle doors. This is to prevent "dooring" accidents, which can cause serious injuries to cyclists. 

• Yielding to Bicyclists: Motorists must yield the right of way to cyclists when the latter are legally using crosswalks or bike lanes.  

These are not just legal responsibilities, but also a matter of common courtesy and respect for the safety of all road users. Remember, sharing the road responsibly with bicyclists ensures everyone's safety.  

Filing a Claim  

Pennsylvania follows a "Choice No Fault" system for car insurance. This means you have the option to choose between no-fault coverage, where you file a claim with your own insurance company regardless of who caused the accident, or fault-based coverage, where you can file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance.  

What to Do If You Have No-Fault Coverage 

If you opted for no-fault coverage, you would file a claim with your own insurance company, irrespective of who caused the accident. This typically includes your medical expenses and lost wages, but not damage to your bicycle or pain and suffering. It's important to report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Be ready with all necessary information, such as accident details, medical records, and any other relevant documentation. 

What to Do If You Have Fault-Based Coverage 

On the other hand, if you have fault-based coverage and believe the other party was at fault, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance. This will involve proving the other party's negligence, so collecting evidence at the accident scene is crucial. You should have photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and police reports. Consulting with a personal injury attorney, such as our team at H. Rosen Law, P.C., can be immensely beneficial in guiding you through this process and ensuring your rights are protected. 

Comparative fault rule  

In Pennsylvania, if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your damages may be reduced proportionally. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover any damages. We're here to help you understand these complexities and protect your rights. 

Statute of Limitations  

Remember, there is a two-year statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a bicycle accident in Pennsylvania. Engaging with an attorney as soon as possible ensures you meet all necessary deadlines. 

Wrongful Death  

In the unfortunate event of a wrongful death resulting from a bicycle accident, Pennsylvania law allows the deceased person's representative to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. Our team is here to guide you through this difficult process so you can focus on recovering.