Since riding a bicycle has become a more efficient mode of commuting versus driving your car or even taking the train, the number of bicycle accidents in Mercer County increase each year. The State of New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety has dedicated a section of resources on their website to inform bicyclists of ways to stay safe on New Jersey roads.
If you are injured while riding your bicycle on the roads of New Jersey, contact an accomplished personal injury attorney today. A Mercer County bicycle accident lawyer will work tirelessly to see that you are awarded the damages you deserve.
Bicyclist’s Responsibilities
Like motorists, bicyclists in and around Mercer County have rights and responsibilities that must be observed while on the roadways. Chapter four of Title 39 of the Motor Vehicle and Traffic Regulation Act dictates that every person riding a bicycle is subject to the same rights and duties as a motor vehicle driver. For example, while on the roads, bicyclists should ride as far to the right side of the road, while exercising due care, when passing a vehicle. However, they can move left to:
- Make a left turn from the left turn lane or pocket
- Avoid debris, drains, or other hazardous conditions in the road
- Pass a slow-moving vehicle
- Occupy an available lane while traveling at the same speed as other traffic
What Equipment is Required for Bicycles in Mercer County?
By law, bicycles must have a front headlight that emits a white visible light from a distance of at least 500 feet from the front and a red light visible from 500 feet to the rear. A red reflector light may be mounted from the rear. All bicycles must have the ability to emit an audible signal that can be heard at least 100 feet away, but cannot be a siren or a whistle, which could be confused with law enforcement sounds. Also, a bicycle must be equipped with brakes that can make wheels skid while stopping on dry, level, clean pavement.
There is a mandatory state law that bicycle riders in Mercer County under the age of 17 must wear a helmet. However, there is an exemption from the requirement when you operate or ride the bicycle on a road that is closed to traffic. This exemption does not apply if you operate or ride a bicycle that is adjacent to a road not closed off from traffic.
Proving Driver Liability for a Cyclist’s Injuries
Under New Jersey law, motorists have a duty of care to bicyclists while on the road. Because bicyclists have a much smaller footprint on the road, it can be a challenge at times to notice that a bicyclist may be riding next to you. Therefore, motorists have a duty to keep a proper lookout for bicyclists and to take reasonable care when switching lanes and making turns to avoid collisions.
To prove that the driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you must show that the motorist owed you a duty of care, that he or she breached their duty of care, the breach caused your injuries, and you have accident-related damages. A Mercer County bicycle accident attorney can go into more detail of how to apply the theory of negligence to your case.
Evidence in Mercer County Bike Accident Cases
If possible, call 911 immediately following the biking accident. Not only will this automatically create a record of the incident, but the 911 operator can send the police and an ambulance if you are not able to get to the hospital on your own.
Make sure you receive the necessary medical treatment for your injuries and obtain all medical records related to the accident. Moreover, prior to leaving the scene try to get statements of any witnesses and photos of the accident scene.
Also, make sure to take down the driver’s name, auto insurance, and other contact information, as this will help when filing a claim with your insurance company. More importantly, keep calm and refrain from the urge to argue with the other party.
Potential Recoverable Damages
In personal injury cases, you may be awarded economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are those which can be quantified by a dollar amount, whereas non-economic damages have an emotional aspect to them.
Some of your economic damages may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and on-going physical therapy costs. Compensation for non-economic losses may include pain and suffering, psychological anguish, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. Speak with a Mercer County bicycle accident lawyer to learn more about the damages that you could receive.
How a Mercer County Bicycle Accident Attorney Could Help
Call a Mercer County bicycle accident lawyer today to discuss the details of your case. The state of New Jersey only allows two years from the time of your accident to file a claim and have it heard by the courts. If your claim is not filed within this time, you may risk not having your case heard and not receive compensation for your injuries. Do not delay, call us today.
Testimonials
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This team is incredible. They are friendly and knowledgeable. I appreciate everything they have done for me and would recommend them to anyone. Overall great experience
Testimonial from Paul D. -
My case settled recently after lasting 4 years. Grungo and Colarulo’s law firm were able to secure a large settlement award for my slip and fall accident. This money will help secure my future for the permanent injury I received as a result of the slip and fall. Everyone was very caring, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. Christine Lafferty is an excellent litigation lawyer. I highly recommend using them if you have been injured or in an accident. I hope I am never in a situation again to need their services, but I know who to go to if I, or any of my family members are ever injured. Thanks Grungo and Colarulo and staff for your compassionate service!
Testimonial from Pamela A. -
Thank you so much Grungo and Colarulo for helping me with my case. Special thanks to Erica Domingo, Esquire and her team. Erica Domingo and her team was very nice and helped me tremendously throughout my case like more than one year and half. They gave me the right advice and guided me through every step of my case. They gave me prompt and clear responses to all my questions. In addition, Erica and her team provided me with all the what if scenarios so that I can have a clear vison of the steps ahead.
I would definitely recommend Grungo and Colarulo.
Thanks again Erica Domingo, Esquire and her team
Testimonial from Ahmed A. -
My wife and I reached out to Grungo Colarulo in 2020 for advise on a legal matter. After a meeting with the Attorney and Paralegal, we decided to go forward with a case. This case required a lot of documentation, and expert review of the documentation which was aquired. Throughout the process, we were kept up to date monthly, and Grungo Colarulo was always responsive to any questions that we had. The entire staff at Grungo Colarulo are very professional, caring, and willing to go the extra mile. This firm is a definite recommend!
Testimonial from Patrick G. -
I left five (5) stars only because that’s as many as I could leave. If I could, I would have left 100 stars. Bob & Christine are the absolute best! My settlement far exceeded what I ever imagined. They are professional, friendly, and really listened to what I had to say. They kept me up to date with the progress of my case every step of the way. I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Testimonial from Sheila L. -
Very professional, communicates well, makes me feel like they have my best interest at heart, and overall just a great company. Christine and the whole team has been on top of everything. Would definitely recommend!! 10/10
Testimonial from Michael M. -
First and foremost I would like to thank the whole team at Grungo Colarulo!! In addition to that, Stephanie & Riley & Drenna have done such an outstanding job taking care of me in such a difficult and low point of my life. I was in a bad car accident & did not know how to move forward with what to do and how to process. Those ladies were there every step, every inch, every mile & beyond with helping me when I had no idea how to navigate. I will forever be thankful for them and for the outcome of my case! If you ever need assistance I highly recommend this practice!!! Beyond professional, helpful, precise, caring, knowledgeable & humble!!!
Testimonial from Rachel F. -
From my first phone call to the end of my case this firm was on the ball!! Always responsive and professional and kept me up to date and informed. This is my firm for any future needs!
Testimonial from Jeffrey F. -
This was my first time ever having to have a lawyer for an automobile accident. From the beginning they took care of everything. They put me at ease so I could concentrate on my medical needs. Everyone I spoke to during the process were always extremely pleasant and knowledgeable.
Thank you to Grungo Colarulo for representing me and getting the settlement you did to help me move forward. I would highly recommend Grungo Colarulo to anyone who wants outstanding legal representation.Testimonial from Pat G. -
This team has been nothing but gentle an generous. Being as this was my first time dealing with a worker’s compensation case I was lost and nervous. But the Grungo Colarulo team has made me feel as comfortable as possible. My needs were addressed with care in a timely fashion. I knew what was going on every step of the way.
Oh, did I mention, WE WON …This teams knowledge of the industry is TOP NOTCH!
Testimonial from Aminah M. -
A dear family friend referred us to a young attorney named Rich Grungo, Jr. We wanted answers and if necessary, justice for our father. From day one of a five-year journey, Mr. Rich Grungo, Jr. made our family and our pain his own. The man never stopped working for us. He kept us informed every step of the way. Questions were answered quickly and with great compassion and expertise. Even though Rich was always busy, he was never too busy for us. We always felt like we were his only clients
Testimonial from Mickey -
I had the opportunity to observe Mr. Grungo work in this case, both in the courtroom on the technical matters of the motions and also as his presentation to the jury in opening and presenting witnesses as well as utilizing animations… and drawings and films that were necessary for a proper understanding of the case…At all times during the presentation, Mr. Grungo operated mostly without notes and questioned the witnesses in a conversational manner which made it most effective. **
New Jersey Superior Court Judge Testimonial -
Thank you for everything. I honestly felt like you treated my son like he was your own son, for that I am grateful. I would recommend your services to anyone. Thanks for being so awesome to both of us.
Testimonial from HD -
It was a pleasure working with Bill. He constantly kept me informed. I would recommend Bill and his firm to anybody I know. They’ll be in good hands.
Testimonial from Gregory -
I had the opportunity to retain Mr. Colarulo for a vehicle accident I encountered. I give him my highest recommendation for anyone in need of an excellent Personal Injury Attorney. Not only does he have an in depth knowledge of the legal field, but he emanates a sense of trust-worthiness that makes you feel secure during the entire process. Mr. Colarulo has the knowledge, drive and enthusiasm that will get the job done for you. He comes highly recommended.
Testimonial from Denise -
Hi Rich, Well I’m on my way up to college to finish packing my son’s stuff up and to go to his Graduation tomorrow. It’s hard to believe how fast and how slow, at the same time 5 years can go by. I was just thinking of you as I am getting ready to leave and wanted to thank you once again for everything you have done for my son’s future. You are a good and just man. God Bless to you and your family.
Be Well,
Testimonial from Bob
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