Bicycle Accidents

Union County Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Serving Clients Throughout the State of New Jersey

Bicycle accident injuries can be severe, perhaps requiring extensive medical treatment and ongoing rehabilitation. If your injuries happened because someone else was at fault, it’s only fair and just that their insurance provides you with a fair settlement. Our lawyer works diligently to give our clients personalized and compassionate legal guidance, aiming to get you what’s needed to travel the road to recovery.

We work with people throughout Union County, Essex County, and the North Jersey Region. Call (908) 948-8395 or contact us online today for a free consultation.

Understanding Bicycle Accident Liability

Determining liability in a bicycle accident can be more challenging than it appears, as multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances.

Car drivers are often the primary party considered at fault, particularly if they engage in reckless behavior such as texting while driving, speeding, or failing to yield at intersections. Motorists are required to share the road with cyclists and obey traffic laws, so failure to fulfill this duty can lead to serious accidents and injuries.

Municipalities or government entities could be liable for bicycle accidents resulting from defective road conditions. Issues like large potholes, missing signage, or poorly designed intersections create hazards that put cyclists at risk. Proving municipal liability involves additional challenges, such as stricter rules for filing claims and shorter deadlines under government immunity laws.

However, cyclists themselves may also bear some responsibility if they disobey traffic signals, ride on the wrong side of the road, or fail to use lights or reflective gear at night.

Shared fault can significantly complicate cases, as New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule in personal injury cases. This means that a cyclist’s settlement can be reduced based on their percentage of fault, and if a cyclist is deemed to be more than 50% at fault, there can be no financial recovery at all.

Establishing who is responsible often calls for thorough investigation, careful documentation, and a strong knowledge of traffic laws. Attorney Michael Chelland wants to be there for you at every step of the process.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident

The actions taken in the immediate aftermath of the accident are often vital. Presuming you are physically able, here is what to do:

Get medical help: Your health should always be your first priority. Even if you feel fine initially, adrenaline can mask injuries. Additionally, medical records can be important evidence for any legal claims related to the accident.
Document the accident scene: Take photos of your bike, the vehicle involved, and the surrounding area. These images can help establish the circumstances of the accident, including road conditions, signage, and the driver’s position.
Gather witness information: Witnesses can provide unbiased accounts to support your claim. Ask for their names and contact information. Our office can help with the follow-up in securing their testimony.
File a police report: It’s essential to report the accident to the police, even if it seems minor. The police report serves as an official record and can provide valuable details, such as the officer’s assessment of the scene and whether any traffic laws were violated.
Call our office: We can handle communication with insurance companies, diligently investigate, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf while you focus on recovering.

Continue Reading Read Less

E-Bikes: Understanding Risks and Liability

E-bikes, or electric bicycles, are changing transportation. Equipped with an electric motor to assist with pedaling, these bikes make commuting easier and faster. They are growing in popularity, especially in urban areas, as an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to get around.

However, with their increased presence on the roads come unique safety risks and potential legal issues:

Battery fires: E-bikes are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which, if poorly designed or manufactured, can overheat and catch fire. These fires not only pose a serious danger to riders but can also lead to property damage and injuries to pedestrians or cars.
Product defects: Issues like malfunctioning brakes, defective throttles, or flawed electric motors can cause riders to lose control of the bike. For instance, if a throttle accelerates unexpectedly or a braking system fails to engage, it could lead to severe collisions.
Speed and acceleration: E-bikes can reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles, making collisions more severe and reducing reaction time to avoid potential hazards.

Understanding e-bike regulations is critical in addressing these issues. Rules about speed limits, bike lanes, and permissible areas of use can influence liability in accidents. Attorney Michael Chelland helps injured plaintiffs understand their rights and the process for getting a fair settlement.

Better Days Are Closer Than You Think

With Michael Chelland, You Have A Warrior On Your Side

We genuinely care about you—your journey, your recovery, and making sure you’re supported every step of the way. Here's what sets us apart.

Personal Attention

We understand how overwhelming this time can be. We take the time to listen and address your concerns with care and understanding.
Strategic Advocacy

We focus on creating practical solutions tailored to your unique situation, keeping your needs at the forefront of everything we do.
Relentless Pursuit of Justice

Our compassionate care turns into steadfast persistence with insurance companies, working toward fair compensation.
Guidance You Can Trust

We guide you through every step of the process with transparency and clear communication, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Committed to Your Case

Our lawyer has deep roots in New Jersey and knows the pain that negligence—and insurance companies’ failure to rectify it—can have on people and their families. If you or someone you love has suffered a bicycle accident, you can trust us to work on your behalf throughout the negotiation process and to pursue justice through litigation if necessary.

Call (908) 948-8395 today. We can meet in person at the Union County office or set up a video conference.

View All Reviews

"Helpful And Knowledable"
Extremely professional, very helpful and knowledgeable. Mr. Chelland provided me with excellent legal counsel on multiple occasions and I highly recommend!

- Former Client
"I Felt Like A Priority"
Michael made the entire process seamless. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable, but he also demonstrates genuine compassion for his clients.

- Tasha D.
"Absolute Game-Changer"
His strategic approach, attention to detail, and communication instilled confidence in me throughout the entire process. I felt empowered and supported every step of the way.

- Vanessa P.