Riding a bicycle is a great way to get around, exercise, save on gas money, and enjoy the Florida sunshine. In 2021, there were approximately 41,615 bicycle-accident-related injuries in Florida, a 7% increase from 2020. If you are involved in an accident while riding one, you have little protection from injury. Injuries endured from bicycle accidents can be devastating resulting in possible traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and soft tissue injuries.
If you have been terribly hurt in a bicycle accident due to another driver’s negligent or careless actions, you may want to speak with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer. At The Law Offices of Scott Sobol, our Davie bicycle accident lawyers have helped thousands of injury victims to get justice for their accidents and recoup compensation for their devastating injuries.
Injured in a bicycle accident?
What Is Personal Injury?
Personal injury law is rooted in the concept that everyone is responsible for exercising a duty of care to everyone else. When someone fails to practice their duty of care and someone else is injured and incurs damages as a result, the person who neglected their duty can be held financially accountable for a victim’s damages, often with the assistance of bicycle accident attorneys. The law provides that the victim can file a claim against the negligent person’s liability insurance to recover compensation, and if the claim is not settled, the victim can file a lawsuit against them in civil court.
In Florida, more than one person may be assigned fault, or liability, for an accident under a “comparative negligence” rule. If you are held partially at fault for a bicycle accident, your settlement will be reduced by that percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault and a vehicle operator is 80% at fault, your settlement will be reduced by 20%.
WHAT FLORIDA LAWS AFFECT BICYCLE ACCIDENTS?
Bicycle riders must comply with the rules of the road, such as obeying traffic signals and riding bicycles with sufficient braking systems. Riders, like drivers, owe others a duty of care. There are some laws that apply specifically to the safe operation of bicycles, such as using the marked bike lane or where there is no bike lane, riding as close to the right curb as possible when traveling at speeds slower than normal traffic. If riding a bike on the sidewalk, while crossing the road, or using the crosswalk, you must obey the same rules as pedestrians. You also must yield to pedestrians. If riding after dark, your bicycle must be equipped with a white lamp on the front visible from at least 500 feet and a red reflector on the rear visible from 600 feet. Violation of these laws may result in the assignment of at least some fault to you.
Vehicle operators are required to use special care when sharing the roadway with “vulnerable” users, including those riding bicycles. Those who fail to do so and injure riders may be subject not only to civil action, such as a personal injury claim, but to criminal penalties as well. It is crucial to hire a skilled Florida bicycle accident lawyer who is familiar with local laws to ensure you receive the appropriate legal support and compensation.
COMMON CAUSES OF BICYCLE ACCIDENTS IN DAVIE
While there are various causes of bike accidents, the majority of them are caused by negligent behavior. Behaviors such as not following a safe distance, not providing the right-of-way, or driving aggressively can all be examples that lead to severe accidents involving bicycles. Some detailed examples include:
- Car doors: Car doors are particularly unsafe for bicyclists in areas where vehicles are allowed to parallel park. When drivers open their doors abruptly without paying attention, passing cyclists can be left with serious injuries.
- Turns: Cars making left or right turns are dangerous for bicyclists because drivers may make quick turns without noticing bicyclists. Additionally, vehicles may cut off cyclists as they speed up to make turns and run the bikes off the road or into their vehicles.
- Rear-end collisions: Bicycles often stop way more abruptly than cars, and drivers who fail to follow at a safe distance may collide with bicyclists from behind. This can cause critical injuries for bicyclists.
- Unsafe lane changes: Drivers may change lanes without signaling, checking blind spots, or making sure that the lane is clear before merging. This may result in a devastating accident.
- Distracted driving: Careless or distracted driving behaviors such as texting, eating, or talking on the phone may be a contributing factor to bicycle accidents.
- Speeding: Drivers may speed and run red lights or stoplights. When this occurs, the bicyclists who have legally entered the intersection may be hit without warning.
If you have experienced a bicycle accident due to one of these causes, speak with a Davie bicycle accident lawyer for a thorough investigation of your case. If negligence played a part in your bicycle accident, you may be able to recoup compensation for your injuries and other losses. A bike crash can have serious legal implications, and having a knowledgeable lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your claim.
What Is Involved in Filing a Claim?
Filing a claim against the insurance policy covering a negligent party requires evidence of their negligence and of your damages, such as medical expenses, medical bills, and lost income when you were unable to work due to your injuries.
The major challenge in filing a claim is the fact that the insurance company will want to pay you as little as possible or nothing at all. To that end, the insurance adjuster will attempt to increase your percentage of fault and decrease the value of your damages, including lost wages. That is how insurance companies work.
How Can An Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Davie Help?
Having an experienced bike accident lawyer representing you can make a tremendous difference, especially when dealing with bike accident injuries. You should focus on recovering from your injuries while your attorney executes the complex work of your claim. At The Law Offices of Scott Sobol, we give you the information and guidance you need to make informed decisions every step of the way. We offer compassionate, accessible, and collaborative representation to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Attorney Scott Sobol has helped thousands of personal injury victims in the Davie community. If you have suffered a terrible injury that was caused by the negligent actions of another driver, we will gather evidence, negotiate on your behalf, and conduct an investigation so that you may obtain the justice you deserve. Call (954) 440-2000 or fill out our contact form for guidance surrounding your case.
Hire a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Davie, FL
The best thing you can do after being injured in a bicycle accident in Florida is to talk to an experienced injury attorney. From conducting an investigation to valuing your claim, to presenting your case to a jury, if necessary, a personal injury lawyer in Davie, FL, from The Law Offices of Scott Sobol can do the heavy lifting for you. Consultations are free, so there is no reason to wait. Reach out to us today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Davie
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident?
After a bicycle accident, prioritize your safety and health. Call 911 for medical assistance if needed, and report the incident to the authorities. Collect evidence, such as photos of the scene and contact information of witnesses. Consult with a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your bike accident claim is properly documented and handled.
How can a bicycle accident lawyer help me with an insurance company?
A skilled bicycle accident lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. They work to counteract tactics aimed at reducing your compensation, such as assigning you a higher percentage of fault or undervaluing your damages. Having legal representation ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
What are common causes of bicycle accidents, and how do attorneys approach these cases?
Bicycle accidents often occur due to negligent driving behaviors, such as distracted driving, unsafe lane changes, and speeding. Bicycle accident attorneys investigate these incidents thoroughly by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing traffic laws. Their goal is to build a strong case to prove liability and secure compensation for your injuries.
What damages can I recover in bicycle accident cases?
In bicycle accident cases, you can recover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. A personal injury lawyer can help value your claim accurately by considering both current and future expenses related to your injuries and losses.
How does Florida’s comparative negligence rule affect my bike accident claim?
Under Florida’s comparative negligence rule, if you are partially at fault for the accident, your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 25% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 25%. A knowledgeable bicycle accident attorney can help minimize your assigned fault to maximize your recovery.
