Introduction

By Kari Law Group, PLLC

📍 Richmond Hill, NY | ☎️ (718) 395-1818 | ✉️ info@karilaw.com

🌐 karilaw.com

Riding a bike through New York isn’t just a healthy, affordable way to get around — it’s also risky. Between distracted drivers, uneven streets, and heavy traffic, cyclists are constantly navigating dangers most drivers never even think about.

And when an accident happens, the injuries are rarely minor.

At Kari Law Group, PLLC, we help injured cyclists fight back against careless drivers, stubborn insurance companies, and anyone else standing in the way of fair compensation. Here's what every rider — and every parent of a young cyclist — should know.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Most bicycle accidents are caused by driver error — not rider recklessness. Even when a cyclist is cautious and follows traffic rules, they can still be hit by a car. Here are some of the most common causes we see:

• Dooring: A driver opens their car door without checking — and the cyclist crashes right into it.

• Right turns: A car makes a turn without checking the bike lane or shoulder, cutting off a cyclist.

• Rear-end collisions: At stop signs or intersections, a car doesn’t brake in time and hits the cyclist from behind.

• Sideswipes: A vehicle passes too close and clips the rider.

• Cross-traffic collisions: A driver enters an intersection and fails to see the cyclist crossing.

• Blind spots: Larger vehicles turn or change lanes without seeing a cyclist riding beside them.

Too often, the driver says they “didn’t see the bike.” But visibility isn’t an excuse for negligence. When drivers aren’t paying attention, cyclists pay the price.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a crash while riding a bike, here’s what we recommend:

1. Call 911. Make sure a police report is filed. Even if you feel “okay,” get checked by EMS.

2. Get medical help. Some injuries — especially head or spine trauma — show up hours or days later.

3. Take photos. Document your injuries, the bike, the car, the street, and any traffic signs or signals.

4. Exchange information. Get the driver’s name, phone number, license plate, and insurance info.

5. Find witnesses. Ask anyone nearby if they saw what happened. Their statement could help your case.

6. Don’t admit fault. Even saying “I didn’t see them either” can be used against you later.

7. Call a lawyer. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better we can protect your case.

Common Injuries from Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists don’t have airbags or seat belts — just a helmet and the hope that drivers are paying attention. That’s why injuries in bike accidents tend to be serious. Some of the most common include:

✔ Road rash and lacerations

✔ Broken bones and fractures

✔ Dislocated joints (especially shoulders and wrists)

✔ Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

✔ Spinal injuries

✔ Internal bleeding

✔ In severe cases, amputations or permanent disability

Even a “minor” crash can result in thousands in medical bills, weeks of missed work, and long-term physical therapy.

Do You Have a Case?

If the driver was at fault — even partially — you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (past and future)

• Lost wages or reduced earning ability

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional trauma

• Property damage (your bike and gear)

You may also be eligible for compensation even if the driver fled the scene or had no insurance — New York’s MVAIC program may apply, and we can help you apply for that.

Why You Need an Attorney

Insurance companies are trained to protect their bottom line. They may:

• Try to blame you for the accident

• Downplay your injuries

• Offer a fast (but low) settlement

• Say cycling is “inherently dangerous”

• That’s why having an experienced bicycle accident lawyer on your side is critical.

At Kari Law Group, we’ll investigate the crash, gather video and witness evidence, speak to medical professionals, and handle every negotiation. If the insurance company refuses to treat you fairly, we’ll take them to court — no hesitation.

How Kari Law Group, PLLC Can Help

We’ve handled everything from simple bike crash claims to complex injury cases with life-changing results. Whether the accident involved a distracted driver, a rideshare vehicle, a commercial truck, or a city-owned bus — we’re ready.

Led by attorney Michelle Kariyeva, our firm combines big-firm knowledge with the kind of personal care and attention every injured client deserves.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and delays can hurt your claim.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident in New York, we’re here to help you recover physically, financially, and emotionally.

📍 Kari Law Group, PLLC

86-11 Lefferts Blvd, Suite #7

Richmond Hill, NY 11418

📞 (718) 395-1818

✉️ info@karilaw.com

🌐 www.karilaw.com