A Brooklyn resident was riding his bicycle in a designated bike lane when a car struck him. He hired HaddLegal, and we recovered a $75,000 settlement for his injuries. If you were hurt the same way, our Brooklyn bicycle accident lawyer page explains how these claims work in Brooklyn.
What Happened
On September 27, 2023, our client was riding in a marked bike lane on a busy Brooklyn street, following the traffic laws and riding exactly where he was supposed to be. A driver failed to yield and struck him, causing significant injuries and a long recovery.
Bike-lane collisions like this one happen across the borough, from Williamsburg and Park Slope to Bushwick, Bed-Stuy and DUMBO, as more New Yorkers ride bikes and e-bikes to work and for deliveries.
How We Built the Case
Bike-lane cases are often stronger than riders expect, but only if the proof is gathered early. In this case, our team:
- Investigated the scene to establish that our client was riding lawfully within the marked bike lane
- Gathered witness statements, camera footage and the police report before the evidence disappeared
- Documented our client’s injuries and losses through his treating providers’ records
- Negotiated with the driver’s insurer and resolved the claim without the delay of a trial
The settlement covered our client’s claim for his injuries, lost income and pain and suffering.
Why Bike-Lane Crashes Happen in Brooklyn
- Dooring: a driver or passenger opens a door into the lane, which VTL § 1214 prohibits unless it is reasonably safe
- Failure to yield at intersections and driveways, as in this case. Turning crashes work like other intersection accidents
- Blocked bike lanes: double-parked cars and delivery trucks that force riders into traffic
- Distracted driving, including texting and GPS use
- Right and left hooks: vehicles turning across a cyclist’s path, often trucks with wide turns and blind spots
What an Injured Cyclist Can Recover
Drivers must use due care to avoid cyclists under VTL § 1146. When a driver’s negligence causes a crash, the injured rider may recover for:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Damage to the bike and gear
- Long-term care and rehabilitation for serious and permanent injuries
Many riders don’t realize the car that hit them generally carries no-fault coverage for their medical bills, even if they don’t own a car. The application is generally due within 30 days. Our NYC bike and e-bike accident lawyer page covers no-fault, e-bikes, delivery-worker claims and hit-and-run crashes in detail.
Hit While Riding in Brooklyn?
Whether it happened in Downtown Brooklyn, along Ocean Parkway or on the Brooklyn Bridge bike path, talk to a lawyer before you talk to the driver’s insurer. Free consultation, no fee unless we win.
