Protecting New York Pedestrians And Bicyclists
Last updated on March 24, 2025
New York is a city of walkers and cyclists. Yet, it can be a dangerous place to travel by foot or bicycle. In 2023, 93 pedestrians and 28 bikers were killed in traffic accidents; countless others sustained serious injuries.
At The Law Offices of Polizzotto & Polizzotto, LLC, we serve injured bicyclists and pedestrians hailing from all five boroughs and beyond. Our firm was founded in 1962, and we have spent the intervening years protecting the rights of our neighbors and visitors to the city. If you get hurt in New York, you can turn to our attorneys for help.
How Our Lawyers Assist The Injured
Many pedestrians and bicyclists who suffer injuries in New York traffic accidents get hit in legally designated areas. These areas, specifically crosswalks and bike lanes, are zones where walkers and bikers are supposed to be protected from traffic. Unfortunately, some drivers disregard the rules, the result of which can be lasting injuries to innocent people.
The first thing pedestrians and bicyclists should do after an accident—if they are physically able—is to call 911. They should also document the scene, exchange insurance information with the driver who hit them and seek immediate medical attention.
After taking these steps, injury victims should contact a lawyer, and that’s where we come in. At The Law Offices of Polizzotto & Polizzotto, LLC, we pride ourselves on being aggressive and attentive, listening closely to our clients’ needs while battling for them at every turn. We pursue all types of compensation for injured pedestrians and bicyclists, including:
- Medical expenses: We do everything in our power to obtain full compensation for our clients’ care and treatment.
- Noneconomic damages: We assist clients in getting benefits for loss of consortium and pain and suffering.
- Wrongful death damages: We help families of people killed in traffic accidents secure death benefits and cover funeral and burial costs.
New York E-Bike Accidents
New York City’s bustling streets have embraced electric bicycles (e-bikes) for their convenience and efficiency, with brands like Citi Bike offering accessible options to residents and visitors. However, e-bikes come with unique challenges and risks, making it essential for riders, pedestrians and bicyclists to understand the laws governing their use.
According to the New York State Department of Transportation, e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks. Riders must operate e-bikes within designated areas, including bike lanes, depending on the type of e-bike in use. There are three classes of e-bikes, each with specific regulations regarding speed limits, licensing and operational areas:
- Class 1: These pedal-assist e-bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph. They do not require registration with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) nor do riders need a driver’s license. This class of e-bikes is permitted on bike lanes.
- Class 2: This class of e-bikes includes a throttle and also has a top speed of 20 mph. Like Class 1, they do not require DMV registration or a driver’s license and are permitted for use in bike lanes.
- Class 3: These e-bikes have a maximum speed of 25 mph and also do not require a license or registration. They can also be used on bike paths but may come with additional operational requirements.
Proper safety measures are also vital. All Class 3 e-bike riders and those aged 16 or younger are required to wear helmets, promoting safety for both the rider and others on the roadways, bike paths and sidewalks. Following these laws helps minimize accidents and ensures safer streets for everyone.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to an e-bike accident in New York, our firm can help you find justice. We understand the complexities of e-bike regulations and are equipped to navigate legal claims, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
We Can Help You On Your Journey To Recovery
In a crowded city like New York, traffic accidents happen all the time. If you were injured as a bicyclist or pedestrian, you do not need to go through your recovery alone. Call our Brooklyn office at 718-213-4861 or contact us online to schedule a consultation (Free Consults Available for Personal Injury inquiries).