New Bedford Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Massachusetts ranked second among the most bicycle-friendly states in the country in 2024, and cycling continues to grow in popularity across the commonwealth. Additionally, the rise of e-bikes has made bicycle transportation more accessible than ever, allowing more people to get around New Bedford on two wheels.
Despite the many benefits of cycling, a bicycle provides minimal protection against the force of a collision. Thus, a bike accident can result in catastrophic injuries that affect every aspect of a person’s life, from their health to their finances.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident in New Bedford caused by someone else, Rob Levine Law is here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (888) 791-9135 for a free consultation about your rights and options.
Find out what your case is worth.
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Last Updated:
July 22, 2026
Table of Contents
- What Our New Bedford Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Do for You
- Key Protections for Bicyclists Under Massachusetts Law
- Common Injuries We See After Bicycle Accidents in New Bedford
- How Partial Fault Could Affect Your Bicycle Accident Claim
- Who Can You Hold Liable for Your Bicycle Accident in New Bedford?
- How Long Do You Have to Take Legal Action After a Bicycle Crash in Massachusetts?
- Our New Bedford Bicycle Accident Lawyers Are Ready to Help You Move Forward
- Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in New Bedford
What Our New Bedford Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Do for You
For more than 25 years, Rob Levine Law has been dedicated to helping injured people pursue the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.
When you turn to us after a bicycle accident, we’ll handle every aspect of the claims process while you focus on healing. With over $2 billion recovered for more than 50,000 clients, we have what it takes to fight for you.
What to Expect When You Hire Us After a Bicycle Accident
We begin with a free consultation, where our attorneys will listen to your story and explain your options. From there, we’ll conduct a thorough investigation into the accident and gather evidence proving fault. We’ll also determine the full extent of your damages and calculate your case’s value.
Once we build a strong case, our accident lawyers in New Bedford will negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. If the insurer refuses to settle for what your claim is worth, we’ll be ready to advocate aggressively for you at trial.
Throughout your case, you’ll have 24/7 access to trusted legal support from our team. We offer the option to meet with us in our office, remotely, or at a location of your choice. And with our Fee Free Guarantee®, you’ll pay nothing for our services unless we recover compensation for you.
Hear from Our Satisfied Clients
Personalized Attention and Care in Accident Cases
I am extremely grateful to Rob Levine’s office and all its staff, especially Samantha De Souza at RLL, who has always called me to check on me and how my case is progressing. Everyone at the office goes above and beyond to ensure I am well and to respond quickly to any concerns or questions I may have. I am very grateful to have them as my representatives in my accident case, which is progressing very well. They care about the clients they represent and will do everything they can to help them in any way possible. God bless you, Rob Levine Law.
Peter R.
Compassionate Legal Assistance
Delaney Grune was very professional, helpful, friendly, and treated me with nothing but respect. She showed me she cared about me and my needs. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone I know who is in need of legal representation.
Evy R.
Top-Notch Communication & Care
I would highly recommend Attorney Austin Millis and his team, Michael and Jesus. They were over-the-top amazing with customer service and communication. I am so extremely happy with the treatment I received throughout this entire process. Thank you all so much!!!
Brian M.
Key Protections for Bicyclists Under Massachusetts Law
Massachusetts law recognizes bicyclists as legitimate users of public roadways and grants them many of the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. In addition to New Bedford’s growing network of bicycle lanes, several areas of state law further promote safe bicycle travel.
Under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 85, §11B, bicyclists have the right to use public roads throughout the commonwealth, except where bicycles are specifically prohibited. Cyclists may ride on sidewalks outside business districts when necessary for safety, but they must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing.
The law also requires riders to obey general traffic laws and use hand signals when turning or stopping. In addition, riders 16 and younger must wear helmets when riding on public roads and paths. Bicycles must also be equipped with lights or reflectors that are visible from a certain distance during evening hours.
In 2023, Massachusetts passed the Vulnerable Road User Law, requiring motorists to pass bicyclists at a safe passing distance of at least four feet.
Common Injuries We See After Bicycle Accidents in New Bedford
Even when wearing helmets and other basic safety gear, bicyclists lack the protection an enclosed vehicle provides. When a bicyclist hits the ground or a moving vehicle with significant force, they can suffer severe injuries. Our personal injury lawyers in New Bedford have represented bicyclists who have sustained a wide range of life-altering injuries, including the following:
- Broken bones in the wrists, arms, legs, pelvis, or collarbone
- Head injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Road rash and abrasions
- Spinal injuries, including fractured vertebrae and spinal cord injuries, which may lead to paralysis
- Facial injuries, including dental damage and scarring
How Partial Fault Could Affect Your Bicycle Accident Claim
Under Massachusetts’s modified comparative negligence law, you can recover compensation as long as you’re less than 51% at fault for your bicycle accident. If you are partially liable, your compensation may be reduced according to your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but are found 40% responsible for the accident, your recovery could be reduced to $60,000.
What Happens if You Weren’t Wearing a Helmet?
If you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, you may still be entitled to full compensation. Massachusetts law prevents insurers from using the failure to wear a helmet as evidence of a cyclist’s negligence. If the insurance company tries to minimize your compensation because you were not wearing a helmet, we can push back and protect your right to maximum damages.
Who Can You Hold Liable for Your Bicycle Accident in New Bedford?
Depending on the circumstances surrounding the crash, several parties may be liable for your bicycle accident:
- Motor vehicle drivers may be responsible if their failure to follow traffic laws contributes to the accident. For example, a driver who drifts into a bike lane while texting behind the wheel on Pleasant Street may be liable for the resulting injuries.
- Employers may share liability with a reckless commercial vehicle driver if improper driver training or poor supervision causes a truck to collide with a bicyclist.
- Property owners or government entities may be liable for failing to maintain sidewalks, roads, or bike lanes. A cyclist injured after hitting an unmarked pothole on Acushnet Avenue may have a claim against the party responsible for maintaining the roadway.
- Product manufacturers may also be liable if defective brakes, tires, or other bicycle components lead to an accident.
- Pedestrians or other cyclists may share liability if they act carelessly, such as stepping into a bike lane without warning.
How Long Do You Have to Take Legal Action After a Bicycle Crash in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is three years. Under this legal deadline, you typically have three years from the date of your bicycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If that deadline passes, you may lose your right to recover compensation.
While three years may seem like plenty of time, waiting until the last minute can make it more difficult to pursue fair compensation. Important evidence can disappear over time, and an early investigation allows us to preserve it while it’s still fresh. We encourage you to contact us immediately after you seek medical treatment so we can build the strongest case possible from the start.
Our New Bedford Bicycle Accident Lawyers Are Ready to Help You Move Forward
Rob Levine Law is proud to advocate for those in need with strong ethical standards and fee transparency. If you or a loved one was harmed in a bicycle accident, we’re ready to provide trusted representation at no upfront cost under our Fee Free Guarantee®. Our contingency fee is 33% of the compensation we recover for you, and we offer a reduced fee of 25% for first responders and military personnel.
Our team is available 24/7 to listen to your story and help you start moving forward. Contact us online or call (888) 791-9135 for a free consultation about your rights, options, and next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in New Bedford
Explore our answers to some of the most common questions we receive from bicycle accident victims in New Bedford.
What Should I Do Immediately After Being Involved in a Bicycle Accident in New Bedford?
Here’s how to protect your health and your potential legal claim after being injured in a bicycle accident:
- Call 911. Remain at the scene until emergency responders arrive.
- If possible, take photos of your bicycle, the vehicle that hit you, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Gather the driver’s insurance information.
- Write down witnesses’ contact details.
- Get immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Contact our New Bedford law firm for further guidance.
Should I Call the Police After a Bicycle Accident in New Bedford, Even if It Seems Minor?
Yes. A police report can provide important documentation of the circumstances surrounding the accident. These details may come into question when you file your claim, and the report may help you support your version of events.
What Types of Compensation Can I Recover if I Am Injured in a Bicycle Accident in New Bedford?
If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for any losses you’ve suffered as a result of the bicycle accident. Common examples include medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
Can I File a Claim if Weather Conditions Were Poorly Accounted For?
Severe weather, such as heavy rain or snow, can increase the risk of bicycle accidents. While these conditions are beyond a person’s control, drivers still have a responsibility to adjust their driving behaviors accordingly. If another party failed to act reasonably given the weather conditions and that failure contributed to the crash, they may be liable for your injuries.
What Should I Do if the Driver Says I Was at Fault for the Accident, Such as Claiming I Was Not in the Bike Lane or Not Visible Enough?
Accidents can happen quickly, and a driver’s recollection of the event may not be accurate. Evidence such as dash cam or traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction can help our team determine what happened. If the evidence conflicts with the driver’s side of the story, our bicycle accident lawyers in New Bedford will advocate for a fair fault assessment on your behalf.
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Notable Case Results
$130,000
Defendant made a wide turn on Narragansett Parkway in Warwick, turning to wide to avoid hitting the front of our clients vehicle. Client had a stiff neck and back after the accident however the pain continued resulting in months of treatment. The case could not be settled and our litigation team had to tackle the file to get a succesful result.
$125,000
Client was driving on 95 South in Warwick when they were rear ended by a defendant who did not slow down and hit our client going about 55 miles per hour. After months of physical therapy the client had an MRI that revealed small spinal fractures. This file was denied but our litigation team was able to get a settlement for the client.
$24,158
Client was rear ended. Allstate claimed low impact accident and denied any injuries. Our attorney filed suit and liltigated the file, proving injuries even with a low impact, winning the case for our client.
$37,810
Jefferson Blvd in Warwick, our client who was 7 months pregnant was side swipped by a truck. Client was rushed to Woman and Infants Hospital in Providence where client was monitored as she began contractions. She also was treated for body pain. Car was a total loss
$300,000
Client was driving on Route 5 in Warwick near the Lowe’s. Defendant was pulling out of a parking lot and hit our clients motorcycle. Our client was thrown from the bike, slamming his head on the ground. He was rushed to the hospital. Our office settled the claim for policy limit. We recovered $240,000 for the client and an additional $60,000 for a loss of consortium claim for the clients spouse.
$50,000
Client was in Dicks Sporting Goods in Warwick RI. Client was walking in an isle and fell on plastic wire straps that were in the isle. Was taken from the store to Kent Hospital via ambulance. Had to have rotator cuff surgery
$55,000
Client was walking his dog in Warwick. During the walk a pitbull named Xavier started fighting with our clients dog. Our client broke up the fight between the dogs. Rescue came to scene along with police. Client was treated and released. The next day an infection formed causing the client to be hospitalized for 6 days.
$50,881
Client residing in Warwick RI could not work due to Seizure, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorder, Chronic Pain, Boderline Personality Disorder
$52,000
Client living in West Warwick suffering from headaches, PTSD, TBI, IBS and was a sexaul victim during his time of army service in the early 2000s. Our firm won 52,000 in back benefits.
$575,000.00
Client was traveling east on Long Street in Warwick when the defendant, pulling out of a side street, ran a stop sign. The client attempted to stop but was unable to avoid hitting the passenger side of the defendant’s car. Our client was taken from the scene by rescue to Rhode Island Hospital, where he stayed for two days.
Quick Follow-Up and Personalized Case Attention
Easily reached the attorney via phone. I dropped off paperwork and promptly received a call to go over it. The attorney is on the ball and doesn’t need time to look me up when I call to discuss my case, unlike other firms I’ve used.
Leo Z.
Unmatched Attention to Veterans’ Cases
Very great law firm for veterans. The time they take on your case is unbelievable. Please give them your business; you will never regret it.
Leland R.
Efficient Disability Claim Representation
Rob Levine is one of the greatest lawyers I’ve ever had. He got my settlement in just nine months for my disability, and it was a great settlement. If you’re looking for a disability lawyer to help you get your settlement quickly, please give them a call.
Yvette R.
Clear Communication and Genuine Client Care
I had an amazing experience with this law firm. From the very beginning, they were professional, supportive, and truly cared about my case. They kept me informed throughout the entire process and made everything feel much less overwhelming.
A special thank you to the paralegal, Candy Rosado. She was absolutely incredible. She was always responsive, patient, and took the time to explain everything clearly. Anytime I had questions or concerns, she made sure I felt heard and reassured.
I also want to recognize my attorney, Heather. She has been amazing, very firm, confident, and clearly knows exactly what she’s doing. That gave me so much peace of mind throughout the process.
I’m truly grateful for all the help and dedication they showed while handling my claim. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a team that genuinely cares and goes above and beyond for their clients.
Errolis G.
Thorough and Caring Legal Team for Motorcycle Accidents
Rob Levine Law provides a great experience for my personal motorcycle accident injuries and motorcycle value recovery. Their website portal is easy to use, updating and logging your critical information, personal case references, and timelines. My lawyer, Kevin Marchand, is very proactive, detailed, and reliable! Thankfully, my case manager, Jorge Bedoya, is very caring, precise, and attentive to my needs. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with them throughout my case.
Matt S.
Excellent Communication and Fast Case Resolution
My paralegal, Samantha De Souza, and attorney, Kevin Marchand, were both great! They kept me up to date with my case. They were really friendly and helpful with all their information and super patient with all my questions. I loved their online system as well, which kept track of where we were at, and the videos they used to help explain the next steps. They did a great job and closed my case quickly.
Alyssa S.