New York Bicycle Accident Laws & Claims Guide

New York City alone has over 50,000 daily bike commuters, with thousands of accidents annually. Understanding New York's laws helps protect your rights after an accident.

New York Cycling Laws

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VTL Article 34 Cyclists have the same rights and duties as motorists.

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Safe Passing Must pass at safe distance. No specific footage requirement statewide.

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Helmet Law Required for riders under 14. NYC requires helmets for all working cyclists (delivery, etc.)

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Bike Lane Use In NYC, cyclists must use bike lanes when provided (with exceptions).

New York Fault Rules

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Pure Comparative Negligence Even at 99% fault, you recover 1% of damages.

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Statute of Limitations 3 years from date of accident.

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No-Fault Insurance New York's no-fault system means:

• Your own insurance pays initial medical bills (up to $50,000)

• You can sue for additional damages if you meet "serious injury" threshold

New York City Specific

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Vision Zero NYC's program to eliminate traffic deaths has improved but not eliminated cycling dangers.

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Protected Bike Lanes Growing network, but gaps remain.

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Common NYC Accidents

• Dooring on avenues

• Right hooks from trucks

• Delivery vehicle conflicts

• Pedestrian collisions

Dangerous Areas

1. Manhattan (especially Midtown) 2. Brooklyn (Atlantic Avenue corridor) 3. Queens (major boulevards) 4. Long Island suburbs 5. Upstate college towns