South Kingstown Bicycle Accident Lawyer
A cyclist has little to shield them from the force of a collision, and the aftermath can be devastating. But even if you had no physical protection in the moment of impact, you still have legal protections after the crash. Rob Levine Law helps injured cyclists in South Kingstown hold negligent drivers accountable and pursue compensation for the losses they have suffered. If you or a loved one were recently struck while riding, we are here to help. Reach out to us at (888) 791-9135 or visit our contact page today. Available 24/7 Win or No Fees.
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Last Updated:
May 26, 2026
Table of Contents
- How Can a Lawyer Help After a Bicycle Accident in South Kingstown?
- What Rhode Island Laws Are in Place to Protect Bike Riders?
- Common Causes of South Kingstown Bicycle Accidents
- Who Can Be Held Liable for Your Bicycle Accident in South Kingstown?
- What Types of Compensation Are Available for a Bicycle Accident Claim?
- Why Hire Our South Kingstown Bicycle Accident Lawyers?
- Bicycle Accident FAQs
How Can a Lawyer Help After a Bicycle Accident in South Kingstown?
Our first job is investigating the crash. We do not just take the police report at face value. We look for surveillance footage, track down witnesses, and gather the physical evidence needed to prove exactly how the driver failed to uphold their duty of care. Once fault is clearly established, we take over all negotiations with the insurance company. We fight aggressively to maximize your compensation, ensuring you have the funds required to cover your medical care and replace your lost wages.
After a bicycle accident, you are immediately thrust into a confusing world of police reports, medical bills, and insurance claims adjusters. Attempting to handle this alone while recovering from severe injuries puts you at a distinct disadvantage. Insurance companies train their adjusters to minimize payouts. Having a lawyer levels the playing field.
With over 25 years of experience, Rob Levine Law brings a deeply knowledgeable and aggressive approach to personal injury cases. We have helped over 50,000 people and have recovered over $2 billion in disability benefits and injury compensation. We know how difficult it is to travel when you are hurt, so we offer remote consultations, in-office meetings, and will even travel to meet you across the New England area.
Hear from Our Satisfied Clients
Clear Communication and Exceptional Service
The staff at Rob Levine Law worked diligently and tirelessly to resolve my personal injury matter. They took care of all the details and won my case. I am grateful to Attorney Derrin Almada for his professional, cheerful service and for explaining everything to me in layman’s terms. Could not have asked for a better outcome!
Olivia L.
Maximized Settlement & Smooth Process
Shout out to Brittney Wilson! She got me the maximum amount for my settlement, and I had no issues dealing with her and Rob’s office. I will suggest to anyone I know who’s been in an accident to call Rob Levine Law ASAP.
Peyton K.
Life-Changing Legal Advocacy That Delivers Result
When the commercials say they’re the Heavy Hitters, he’s telling the truth. Chris Lindberg is an actual godsend. They took one of the most complicated and stressful situations in my life and created a completely positive experience. God bless him and God bless Rob Levine.
Sean B.
What Rhode Island Laws Are in Place to Protect Bike Riders?
According to R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-15-18, motor vehicles may only pass a bicycle rider on the left at a safe distance, and may only return to the lane of travel once they have safely passed them. Additionally, drivers are strictly prohibited from parking in designated bike lanes, ensuring riders are not suddenly forced out into moving traffic. The state also enforces a strict “dooring” law, making it illegal to open a vehicle door into the flow of traffic unless it is safe to do so.
Cyclists carry responsibilities as well. You must obey standard traffic signals, stop at stop signs, and use proper hand signals before making a turn. If you ride on a sidewalk, you are required to yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing them. Finally, while adult riders have the choice to wear a helmet, Rhode Island law mandates helmet use for any rider under the age of 15.
Does Rhode Island Have Any Specific E-Bike Laws?
Electric bicycles have become increasingly popular, and Rhode Island categorizes them into specific classes to regulate their use on public roads and paths.
- Class 1 E-Bikes: These bicycles feature a motor providing assistance only when the rider is pedaling. The motor ceases assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour.
- Class 2 E-Bikes: These models include a throttle, meaning the motor can propel the bicycle without the rider pedaling. Like Class 1, the motor stops assisting at 20 miles per hour.
- Class 3 E-Bikes: These bicycles provide assistance only when the rider pedals, but the motor continues to assist until the bicycle reaches 28 miles per hour. They are typically equipped with a speedometer.
- E-Cargo Bikes: Designed specifically to carry heavier loads or passengers, these bikes follow the same class restrictions based on their motor and speed capabilities.
Rhode Island allows e-bikes on most roads and designated bike paths. However, riders must follow local laws and restrictions, especially in areas reserved strictly for traditional bicycles or pedestrians.
Common Causes of South Kingstown Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents in South Kingstown happen in many preventable ways. Some involve drivers who fail to yield at intersections, make unsafe turns, drift into bike lanes, or drive while distracted. Others happen because of unsafe road conditions, such as uneven pavement, broken shoulders, or potholes that can throw a cyclist off balance or into traffic.
These risks can appear on busy roads like Route 1, Route 138, and Tower Hill Road, as well as near crossings connected to the South County Bike Path. E-bikes may add another layer of danger because their higher speeds can reduce reaction time and make it harder for drivers to judge distance. No matter how the crash happened, bicycle accidents often leave riders with serious injuries and difficult questions about fault, insurance, and recovery.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Your Bicycle Accident in South Kingstown?
Depending on the circumstances of your crash, one or more parties could share responsibility for your injuries.
- Motorists: Motorists are the most frequently liable party in bicycle accident cases. When a driver runs a stop sign on Old Tower Hill Road, drifts into a bike lane while texting along Tower Hill Road, or fails to maintain the legally required three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist, they can be held responsible for all resulting damages.
- Cyclists/Pedestrians: In some cases, another cyclist or a pedestrian may bear responsibility. A pedestrian who steps blindly into a designated bike lane, or a fellow cyclist riding recklessly and triggering a collision on the South County Bike Path, can be held liable for the injuries they cause, just as a negligent driver can.
- Government Agencies: Government agencies may also be at fault when poor road conditions contribute to a crash. If a municipality fails to properly mark a bike path crossing near Matunuck Beach Road, neglects dangerous potholes along a heavily used cycling route, or fails to maintain safe conditions on public paths, that agency may be held accountable for negligence. These cases require prompt action, as claims against government entities in Rhode Island carry strict filing deadlines.
- Manufacturers: Product manufacturers can bear liability when defective equipment causes or worsens a crash. If the brakes on a new e-bike fail due to a manufacturing defect, or a helmet fails to perform as advertised, the company responsible for that product may owe you compensation regardless of how the accident itself unfolded.
What Types of Compensation Are Available for a Bicycle Accident Claim?
When you pursue a personal injury claim, the goal is to make you “whole” again by securing financial recovery for your losses. Compensation typically falls into three categories:
- Economic Damages: These cover your tangible financial losses. This includes current and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages from time spent out of work, and property damage to repair or replace your bicycle.
- Non-Economic Damages: These compensate you for intangible losses. This includes physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, trauma, and the overall loss of enjoyment of life you experience due to your injuries.
- Punitive Damages: In cases involving extreme negligence, such as a hit-and-run driver or someone driving under the influence, the court may award punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar reckless behavior in the future.
Why Hire Our South Kingstown Bicycle Accident Lawyers?
Choosing the right legal representation can profoundly impact the outcome of your case. Rob Levine Law is focused on advocating for those in need, bringing compassion, dedication, and extensive legal knowledge to every client we serve. We understand accidents do not happen on a set schedule, which is why we offer 24/7 availability to answer your questions and provide support.
We believe in complete price transparency. We charge a 33% fee for all personal injury cases. Furthermore, we deeply respect those who serve our communities. We offer discounts to first responders, police, fire, rescue, and military personnel who pay 25 percent instead of 33 percent. With our Fee Free Guarantee®, you can rest assured knowing you owe us nothing unless we secure a favorable result for your claim. Contact us today by phone at (888) 791-9135 or online today.
Meet Our Attorneys
Bicycle Accident FAQs
What is the statute of limitations for filing a bicycle accident lawsuit in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline usually results in losing your right to seek compensation. It is vital to contact a lawyer early to ensure all evidence is preserved and your claim is filed on time.
Can I file a claim if the accident was caused by poor road conditions, like potholes, debris, or poorly maintained bike lanes in South Kingstown?
Yes, you can file a claim against the government agency or municipality responsible for maintaining the road. However, claims against government entities involve strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines. A lawyer can help navigate these specialized rules to hold the appropriate agency accountable.
Can I be blamed and held partially liable for the bike accident?
Rhode Island follows a “pure comparative negligence” system. This means you can still recover damages even if you are partially at fault for the accident, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Importantly, failure to wear a bicycle helmet is not considered evidence of contributory negligence in Rhode Island.
Can I file a wrongful death claim if a loved one was killed in a bicycle accident in South Kingstown, and what is the process for that?
Yes. If a loved one passes away due to a negligent driver, the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate can file a wrongful death claim. This process seeks compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills incurred prior to passing, lost future income, and the loss of companionship. Our compassionate team can guide your family through this difficult legal process.
How does road rage or aggressive driving play into a bicycle accident claim, especially if the driver intentionally caused the accident?
Road rage significantly alters a claim. If a driver intentionally strikes a cyclist or acts with severe recklessness, they face criminal charges alongside your civil lawsuit. In these cases, you are highly likely to be eligible for punitive damages, which are awarded to punish the driver for their malicious behavior and to deter others from acting similarly.
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Notable Case Results
$250,000
Automobile struck minor client who was skateboarding on Americas Cup Avenue in Newport resulting in his head leaving a dent in the vehicle’s hood. Client suffered multiple abrasions and a concussion resulting in his admission to the hospital for observation. Client lost time from school due to his injuries, but was able to catch back up and graduate on time. The settlement is providing him with critical funds to invest in a new life ahead.
$100,000
Client was a passanger traveling on Coddington Highway in Newport. Car came to stop at intersection, other car did not see the car our client was in and hit them head on. The impact was so hard it caused our client to fracture their pelvis in two places which required surgery.
$500,000
A semi truck began backing on to Davisville Road in North Kingstown, it did not stop for traffic and backed into our clients vehicle. Our client was rushed to South County Hosptial with body pain and facial stitches.
$500,000
We represented two clients that were jetskiing in Newport. Another jetski hit them causing severe injuries, as they were rushed to Rhode Island Hospital. Each had fractures to their extremities. We were able to settle for defendants policy limits.
$100,000
Client was at Gurney’s in Newport. The stairs that lead to the clients room were poorly lit, as many lights had not been replaced. The client fell, tearing the quad muscle and needing surgery.
$150,000
Client was visiting a nursing home in Middletown RI. While bringing flowers to her family member she slipped and fell in a puddle of water. Long term pain management and pain injections.
$24,716
Client was living in Jamestown RI suffering from Deep vein thrombosis, Pain, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety leaving him unable to work.
$180,000
Veteran living in Portsmouth RI had suffered hearing loss, PTSD and HTN from his time in the Army we were able to get him nearly $200,000 in back benefits.
$261,000
Secured for a client who was riding his motorcycle from Middletown to Newport. As he navigated the rotary, a car failed to yield to him, knocking him off his motorcycle and causing a fractured ankle. The settlement covered the client’s medical expenses and damages resulting from the accident.
$129,000
Secured for a client who was rear-ended while slowing down on the Pell Bridge in Newport. The severe impact forced the client’s car into the vehicle in front of him. As a result, the client suffered neck, back, and shoulder injuries. Our team worked diligently to recover the compensation our client deserved for their damages.
$235,000
for a client who was rear-ended by a large truck while driving his company vehicle in Newport. The client required several months of treatment for his injuries and lost time from work as a result of the crash.
Exceptional Service and Advocacy for Veterans
Rob Levine Law has been very helpful in my request to receive compensation benefits for injuries I incurred while in service. I’ve suggested their services to a number of veterans seeking legal assistance. I highly recommend them and will continue to seek their services and advice.
Sandyabdullah M.
Above and Beyond Client Care
They have been very responsive to me, even after my disability case was approved and settled. I can still call them anytime with questions and always get a response. Daniela has been great. If you’re lucky enough to work with her, you will enjoy her helpfulness as well as her ability to go above and beyond for her clients.
Carmen T.
Great Results with Fast, Reliable Communication
I am beyond satisfied with how Attorney Daniel LeClair handled my case, and the end result was beyond anything I could have expected. He kept me updated throughout the process and was very fast in replying to any questions I had. Hopefully, I won’t need his services again, but if I do, I won’t hesitate to reach out to him and his office again.
Christopher H.
Helping Veterans Navigate the VA with Expertise
After all these years and all this time, finally, a person and a firm that will stand by me. Jairo Manchola was a complete professional and answered all my questions. I feel like I have a coach in my corner to take on the monster known as Veterans Affairs. I look forward to working with Rob Levine Law in the near future to help me get the compensation I deserve and fought for. Once again, thank you, Jairo, for making this very easy and drama-free. I think every veteran should work with this firm.
Edward C.
Great Service with Compassionate Support
They are very good at what they do and are very understanding and patient. I would recommend them to everyone I know who needs help. Thank you so much.
Tabitha W.
Fast and Effective Legal Assistance
I was afraid of using an out-of-state attorney, but I’m so glad I did! They got right down to business and settled my case swiftly.
Robin H.
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