Bicycle Accident Lawyer Ontario County, NY
Cycling is a popular way to explore Ontario County’s scenic Finger Lakes region, from the shores of Canandaigua Lake to the rolling hills around Victor and Geneva. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries, and navigating the aftermath without experienced legal guidance can be overwhelming. If you were injured while riding a bicycle in Ontario County, you need a dedicated personal injury lawyer who understands New York’s laws and the local court system. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents injured cyclists throughout the Finger Lakes. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and Owner and Founder of the firm, and his Of Counsel team bring extensive combined legal experience to bicycle accident claims. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
Bicycle Accidents in Ontario County: What You Should Know
Ontario County offers a variety of cycling routes—from lakeside paths to rural roads that pass farms and vineyards. However, many of these roads were not designed with cyclists in mind. Routes like 5&20, 332, and 96 carry heavy tourist and local traffic, especially during the summer months when the Finger Lakes attract visitors. A collision with a motor vehicle, a hazardous road surface, or a door being opened by a parked car can all lead to serious injuries, including fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage.
If you are injured in a bicycle accident, your claim may be heard in the Ontario County Supreme Court, located at 27 North Main Street in Canandaigua. Under New York law, personal injury claims—including those arising from bicycle accidents—must be filed within three years from the date of the injury (N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214(5)). Missing this deadline will bar your claim, so it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. New York also follows a pure comparative fault rule: your recovery can be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you, but you may still recover damages even if you were mostly at fault. However, if a motor vehicle was involved in your accident, New York’s no-fault insurance laws may require you to first seek compensation from the vehicle’s insurance policy and to meet the “serious injury” threshold before you can pursue a lawsuit for pain and suffering.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Bicycle Accident Cases
When you contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., our attorneys begin by collecting all relevant evidence: police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photographs or video of the accident scene. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel may also work with accident reconstruction attorneys to determine how the collision occurred and to identify all responsible parties. Because New York’s pure comparative fault rule allows recovery even if you share some blame, a thorough investigation is critical to accurately assess liability.
Once the evidence is gathered, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel negotiate with insurance companies to seek a settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they are prepared to file a complaint in the Ontario County Supreme Court and litigate the matter. Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor gives him a thorough understanding of how cases are built and presented, which can be a significant advantage when your case goes to trial. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., he has been practicing since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris has firsthand insight into how opposing parties evaluate injury claims. He has also testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the legal profession.
Mr. Sris works alongside a team of dedicated Of Counsel attorneys who are engaged through Excella. Together, they bring a breadth of experience to bicycle accident cases, provides clients with thorough and individual case review. The firm accepts cases on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Ontario County?
You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit under New York law (N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214(5)). Because evidence can deteriorate and witnesses’ memories fade, it is wise to contact an attorney as soon as possible after an accident. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your specific timeline.
What should I do after a bicycle accident in Ontario County?
Seek medical attention immediately, even if you do not feel seriously injured. If a motor vehicle was involved, report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report. Document the scene with photographs, gather contact information from the driver and any witnesses, and keep records of all medical treatment, prescriptions, and related expenses. Refrain from discussing fault with insurance adjusters until you have spoken with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Do I really need a lawyer for a bicycle accident claim?
You are not required to hire a lawyer, but having an experienced attorney can be crucial to obtaining full compensation. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts by disputing liability or by offering low settlements before the full extent of your injuries is known. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can investigate the accident, handle all communication with insurers, and, if necessary, litigate your case in court.
How does New York’s no-fault insurance apply to bicycle accidents?
If you are struck by a motor vehicle while cycling, the vehicle’s no-fault insurance may cover your initial medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who was at fault. To recover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, however, your injury must meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold. If your bicycle accident did not involve a motor vehicle, no-fault coverage does not apply, and your claim will proceed under ordinary negligence principles.
What damages can I recover in a bicycle accident case?
You may seek compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. New York’s pure comparative fault rule means your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages even if you were mostly responsible for the accident. An attorney can help you calculate and document all your losses, including future medical needs and diminished earning capacity.
How long will it take to resolve my bicycle accident lawsuit?
The timeline for a bicycle accident lawsuit varies depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of your injuries, and the court’s calendar. Some cases settle within months, while others may take a year or more to reach a resolution. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel keep clients informed at every stage and work to resolve cases as efficiently as possible while pursuing a fair outcome. To discuss the specifics of your situation, call (888) 437-7747.
Our firm also provides personal injury representation in nearby counties: New York County Personal Injury Lawyer, Kings County Personal Injury Lawyer, Queens County Personal Injury Lawyer, Richmond County Personal Injury Lawyer, Nassau County Personal Injury Lawyer.
For reference, you may review the relevant New York statutes and local court information: New York Civil Practice Law and Rules § 214 and Ontario County Supreme Court.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.