Citi Bike Accident Lawyer Explains What to Do if You Get in An Accident

If you’re not a fan of the subway and you’re not the best at waving down a taxi, then Citi Bikes in New York City are your next best bet. They’re affordable and placed all around the city, making them a common transportation option for locals. Through the state’s Bike Share Program––launched with the help of the New York City Department of Transportation, Lyft, and the city council––the program continues to expand to other areas in New York, allowing more people access to transportation. On the first day, the program saw over 20,000 people register to ride with an initial 6,000 bikes on the streets. Locals aren’t the only ones taking an interest in the Citi Bikes. Hundreds of tourists can be seen riding the bikes as well, as it’s a great way to sight-see while getting to a destination. With more people on the road, there’s an increased chance for an accident to happen, resulting in serious injury or even death. If you find yourself in this situation, a Citi Bike accident lawyer at Shaevitz & Shaevitz can help you.

File a crash report, gather evidence

If you’ve just been involved in a collision, call 911. You should also file a police report if your collision involved another vehicle or rider and get the other party’s insurance information. Citi Bike also requires riders to call their customer service line and notify them of the incident within 24 hours. To avoid a $1,000 fine, you must also return the Citi Bike to one of its stations within 24 hours.

If you’re not severely injured, take photos. This will be used for your Citi Bike accident lawyer to make a case. The more evidence you can provide, the better. Try to get the license plate number if the crash involved another car, driver’s license information, and any eyewitness statements on the scene.

Photograph any conditions that may have contributed to the collision. Construction zones and other things that may have played a factor will be helpful for your Citi Bike accident lawyer to potentially use in your case. If there are other negligent or defective street conditions, they should be measured and photographed. If you file a claim against the city, it’s imperative you document as much as you can about the crash.

If you believe the city was at fault, you must file a Notice of Claim with the Controller’s Office three months from the date of the incident. These filings and photographs should be sent to your Citi Bike accident lawyer as well, so they can build your case.

If you happen to be injured from a collision with another vehicle, seek medical assistance. Don’t be afraid to go to the hospital because of medical bills, New York State’s no-fault insurance coverage grants up to $50,000 toward medical expenses and other damages.

How to avoid a Citi Bike accident

Knowing preventative measures can save you a lot of money, time, and resources. Here are a few ways to avoid a Citi Bike collision:

• Always wear a helmet.
• Pay attention to all traffic laws like you would in a car.
• Utilize bike lanes.
• Always keep both hands on the handlebars.
• Don’t text or make phone calls.
• Don’t wear earphones and stay alert to all traffic conditions.
• Only one rider per Citi Bike is permitted at a time.
• Watch out for doors that may swing open in your path.
• If you are riding at night, wear reflective gear or other items that make your presence known to other drivers on the street.

If you do find yourself in a bind, reach out to one of our Citi Bike accident lawyers and we will be happy to assist you with a free consultation.

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