top of page
Stern and Stern Law Firm Logo

516-634-0345

  • Writer's pictureJordan Stern

The Basics of Bicycling



Everywhere you look, there are people, young and old, on bicycles; some for pleasure, others out of necessity. Every year 1,000 bicyclists die, and more than 130,000 are injured in accidents on the road, according to the CDC.


The three most common causes of bike accidents are speeding, distracted riding, and not maintaining a safe distance of at least three feet between a vehicle and a bike.

Both drivers and bicyclists need to be aware of their surroundings and the rules of the road. New York State has comprehensive laws regarding bicycles.


  • Children under fourteen must always wear a helmet while riding

  • Bicyclists must:

    • obey traffic lights and signs and use turn signals

    • share the road

    • ride with traffic

    • use a bike lane when available

    • yield the right of way to a pedestrian

Even with these laws in place, 64 percent of bicycle deaths occur away from intersections, where drivers are traveling at a higher rate of speed, and 27 percent occur at intersections, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Adults ages 55-69 have the highest death rates in bicycle accidents, and adolescents, teens, and young adults have the highest rate of bicycle-related injuries that require treatment in an ER.


Like most accidents, there are associated health care costs, lost time at work, and a decrease in quality of life. These costs exceed $23 billion in the US each year, according to the CDC. These are not costs that can easily be determined, that is why it is best to have an attorney. The last thing you need to worry about is how to pay your bills, which will be costs that can be recouped from the driver’s insurance company. All drivers in New York State must have No-Fault Personal Injury Protection Insurance. This insurance covers the costs of all injuries sustained regardless of who is at fault.


If you or someone you know has been in a bicycle accident, call us. We do not get paid unless your case settles.

5 views0 comments
bottom of page