In New Jersey, you have legal rights that can help you recover financially after an accident.
But insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and without the right steps, you could miss out on money you’re entitled to.
A New Jersey bicycle accident lawyer can make sure you’re not stuck with unfair expenses and help you get the compensation you deserve. They know all the tricks insurance companies use to pay you less, and they won’t let you get taken advantage of.
Here’s what you need to do to stay financially secure after a bicycle accident.
Get Medical Attention and Keep Detailed Records
Even if you feel fine, go to a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms immediately. If you wait too long to get checked, insurance companies might argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident, making it harder to get compensation.
In New Jersey, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance from your auto policy can cover medical expenses, even if you were on a bike. If you don’t have car insurance, your health insurance may cover treatment, but you’ll still be responsible for deductibles and co-pays.
Save every receipt related to your medical care, including hospital bills, prescription costs, and physical therapy expenses. Even small costs like Uber rides to the doctor or bandages from the pharmacy can be reimbursed if properly documented.
Notify Your Insurance Company Immediately
New Jersey is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance (if you have auto insurance) covers your initial medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. If a car was involved, the driver’s PIP insurance might also provide coverage, but you’ll need to report the accident quickly to start the claims process.
If you have homeowners or renters insurance, check if it covers bike accidents. Some policies may reimburse property damage or theft related to the accident. However, delaying your claim can lead to denials, so report the incident as soon as possible.
Keep Track of Lost Wages and Income
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. But without proper documentation, you won’t get reimbursed.
Track every missed workday and pay stub showing lost earnings. If you earn hourly wages, get a statement from your employer confirming the hours you missed. For salaried employees, request a letter detailing how your pay was affected. If you’re self-employed or rely on gig work, tax returns, client invoices, or bank statements showing lost income can help prove your case.
New Jersey law allows accident victims to claim compensation for lost earning potential if their injuries affect their long-term ability to work. A doctor’s note explaining how your injuries impact your job can strengthen your claim, so make sure to have that handy.
Beware of Quick, Lowball Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that are far less than what you’re actually owed. They count on victims to accept these low offers before realizing the full extent of their expenses.
Before agreeing to any settlement, consult a bicycle accident lawyer. Most personal injury lawyers work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive enough compensation to cover all your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Once you accept a settlement, you can’t ask for more money later, so you have to make sure the offer truly covers all your current and future costs before signing anything. Confirm with your lawyer to ensure that the amount you’re being offered is good enough.