When bicycle accidents involving CitiBike riders occur in New York City, victims and their families often face complex legal challenges. A citibike lawsuit can help secure compensation for injuries, medical expenses, and other damages resulting from negligent drivers or dangerous road conditions.
The Landmark CitiBike Fatality Case
A tragic incident on June 12, 2018, marked New York City’s first CitiBike fatality and highlighted the vulnerability of cyclists sharing roads with large vehicles. Dan Hanegby, a New York City investment banker and former Israeli staff sergeant, was struck and killed by a Coach USA bus while riding down West 26th Street near Eighth Avenue in Manhattan.
The accident was captured on video surveillance, which proved crucial in the subsequent Citi Bike lawsuit. Initially, the New York City Police Department reported that Hanegby had swerved to avoid a van and rode into the bus’s path. However, the video evidence contradicted this account, showing that a wheel of the 50,000-pound bus clipped the bike’s handlebar, causing the front wheel to jerk to the right—not swerve—towards the van.
Legal Proceedings and Outcomes
The citibike lawsuit was filed in June 2018 against Dave Lewis, the bus driver, and the bus company. The bus driver was ultimately convicted and sentenced to 30 days in jail for negligent operation of the vehicle. This conviction demonstrates that even large commercial vehicle operators can be held criminally and civilly liable for accidents involving cyclists.
During the legal proceedings, the defense argued that Hanegby was at fault because he was wearing headphones and allegedly couldn’t hear the bus driver’s horn. Evidence suggested the driver did honk prior to contact, but even if the cyclist bore some responsibility, this doesn’t bar recovery under New York’s comparative fault laws.
Common Causes of CitiBike Accidents
CitiBike accidents typically result from several factors that can form the basis of a citibike lawsuit:
- Driver negligence: Failure to yield, speeding, or distracted driving
- Dangerous road conditions: Poor maintenance, inadequate bike lanes, or construction zones
- Vehicle defects: Mechanical failures in bikes or motor vehicles
Legal Rights and Compensation
Victims of CitiBike accidents have legal rights that experienced personal injury attorney Staten Island professionals can help protect. A successful Citi Bikelawsuit may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
New York follows a comparative fault system, meaning that even if a cyclist bears partial responsibility for an accident, they may still recover damages proportional to the other party’s fault. This legal principle was particularly relevant in the Hanegby case, where the defense attempted to shift blame to the victim.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Personal injury Staten Island attorneys understand the complexities of bicycle accident cases and can effectively investigate claims, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies. The Hanegby case demonstrates how video evidence and thorough investigation can contradict initial police reports and establish liability.
Experienced Staten Island personal injury lawyers provide crucial services including early investigation, evidence preservation, witness interviews, and expert testimony to build strong cases for their clients.
Key Takeaways:
- Video evidence and proper investigation can overturn initial accident reports in CitiBike lawsuit cases
- New York’s comparative fault laws allow injured cyclists to recover damages even with partial responsibility
- Professional legal representation significantly improves outcomes in bicycle accident claims
Get Legal Help for Your CitiBike Accident
If you or someone you know was involved in a CitiBike accident, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and secure fair compensation. Our team understands the unique challenges of bicycle accident cases and works tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. Consult us today!
How long do I have to file a citibike lawsuit after an accident?
In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, New York follows comparative fault laws, allowing recovery even with partial responsibility. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What evidence is most important in a citibike lawsuit?
Video surveillance, police reports, witness statements, and medical records are crucial evidence. Early investigation helps preserve important evidence before it’s lost.
