When NYC Potholes Cause Bicycle Accidents: City Liability and Compensation

On December 9, 2025 by No Comments

Pothole-related bicycle crashes are a growing concern across New York City’s boroughs, especially in high-traffic areas of the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. When a cyclist is thrown off balance because the city failed to repair a dangerous roadway defect, the injuries can be severe, and the legal questions that follow can feel overwhelming.

Luckily, Macaluso & Fafinski, P.C. has been representing injured cyclists throughout NYC and helps them pursue compensation. A bicycle accident lawyer in NYC can prove liability and lead the way in the pursuit of financial compensation.

How to Prove City Liability When Potholes Cause a Bicycle Accident in NYC

Holding the City of New York accountable for a bicycle accident caused by a pothole requires meeting specific legal standards. New York has strict rules regarding municipal liability, meaning it’s not enough to simply show the pothole existed. You must prove that the city knew or should have known about the defect and failed to address it.

Under NYC law, the city can only be held responsible for roadway defects if it had prior written notice of the pothole. This notice may come from:

• Official complaints submitted to the city
• New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection reports
• 311 reports logged before the accident
• Prior claims filed by other injured parties

Your attorney can investigate whether the pothole was already documented through these channels or present on DOT maintenance records. If the city affirmatively created the pothole, such as through negligent roadwork, improper resurfacing, or incomplete construction, they may be liable even without prior notice. You have to present compelling evidence, such as photos of recent construction, witness statements, or work orders, to support this argument.

Also, as an injured cyclist, you must show a clear connection between the defect and the crash. You can do this by:

• Taking photographs or video of the pothole immediately after the accident
• Documenting skid marks, debris, or bicycle damage
• Using GPS tracking or ride apps to show the exact location
• Collecting eyewitness accounts

To properly determine liability in NYC bike accidents, it is advisable to act promptly to investigate the case. This is because evidence such as potholes can be patched quickly, potentially removing key proof. If the city had prior notice or created the dangerous potholes and failed to repair them within a reasonable time, negligence can be established. Your lawyer can work to gather relevant evidence to support the claim.

Filing a Claim for Compensation

Claims against NYC involve many procedures and unique deadlines. Cyclists injured because of potholes are required to follow the stipulated municipal claim process to avoid losing their right to compensation. This includes the following steps:

• Notice of Claim: Before suing the city, you must give a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. This document informs the city of your injuries and the roadway defect involved. Missing this deadline can lead to dismissal, making legal guidance essential.
• 50-H Hearing: After filing the notice, the city usually schedules a 50-H hearing, which is similar to a deposition. You’ll answer questions under oath about how the accident occurred and the injuries you sustained. An NYC bicycle accident lawyer prepares you for this hearing and ensures your statements are consistent and accurate.
• Filing the Lawsuit: If the case does not resolve after the hearing, the next step is filing a formal lawsuit. Your legal team will leverage the evidence collected to demonstrate the city’s negligence.

Throughout the process, it’s important to continue medical care and keep records of every appointment, bill, and diagnosis. With strong documentation for your harm and medical costs, your lawyer can easily push for compensation that shows the real impact of the bicycle accident.

What Damages Are Recoverable in a Bicycle Accident Claim Caused by Potholes?

When harmed in a bicycle accident due to a pothole in NYC, you may face a mix of financial, physical, and emotional losses. However, if the city is found liable, you may recover compensation to address a wide range of damages. Your compensation may include:

• Medication costs
• Follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and long-term treatment
• Loss of earnings and future earning capacity
• Bicycle repair or replacement costs
• Pain and physical suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of daily activities

When evaluating a claim, the lawyer will assess the nature of the injuries involved. Generally, the more severe the injury, such as traumatic brain injuries, the higher the potential compensation. Your attorney will ensure that your claim reflects the nature of your injuries and losses.

Injured in a Bicycle Accident in NYC? You Have Rights

If you were injured because your bicycle struck a pothole in NYC, you can secure financial compensation for the resulting losses. The city may be responsible, and you have the right to retain the services of a lawyer to protect your interests. The legal team at Macaluso & Fafinski, P.C. can help you build a strong case to hold the city accountable for unsafe roadway conditions. Call us at 800-762-9300 or reach out online for guidance as soon as possible to push for your recovery.