Bicycling is a way of life for many living in South Florida. Bicyclists share the roadway with vehicles and pedestrians. However bicycling can be very dangerous when a bicyclist encounters a driver who isn’t paying attention. Too many drivers on the road fail to see bicyclists. The National Highway of Traffic Safety Administration reported that Florida’s fatal bicycle accident rate is close to the top in the nation.
Since bicyclists have nothing more than a helmet for protection, they sustain more injuries in a motor vehicle accident than the driver of the car that struck them. Even if a bicyclist is struck by a motor vehicle in an area with a 25-35mph speed zone, the cyclists could sustain broken bones, paralysis, road rash and brain injuries.
These injuries can be very expensive. Hospitalization, physical and occupational therapy, surgery and other medical care can add up even if you have car or health insurance. If you or a loved one were struck by a careless or reckless driver, Florida law gives you the right to hold that person accountable for the injuries you sustain in the accident.
Bicyclists injured in motor vehicle accidents may be entitled to Personal Injury Protection benefits from the vehicle that caused the accident. Due to the detailed nature of bicycle accident cases, it is important to seek the assistance of an experience personal injury lawyer specializing in bicycle accident.
COMMON QUESTIONS OF BICYCLISTS INVOVLED IN AN ACCIDENT?
- Does the State of Florida require bicyclists to wear a helmet?
- Do bicycles ridden at night have to have a light?
- Will my automobile insurance policy cover an accident when I ride my bicycle?
- Who can I recover damages from if I’m injured in a bicycle accident?
IMPORTANT BICYCLE SAFETY:
- Wear a helmet
- Slow down at intersections
- Do not ride your bicycle on the sidewalk
- Obey all traffic signals
The Law Offices of Randy C. Botwinick can answer all of those questions for you. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, contact our office for a free and immediate consultation. We will evaluate your case and if you are entitled to compensation we will prosecute your claim and hold the at fault driver accountable.