Florida bicycle accident laws for recreational cyclists mirror those for competitive cyclists. Anyone who rides a bicycle in Florida must act as if they are driving a motor vehicle—stopping for traffic, yielding the right of way, and taking other necessary measures to avoid causing a collision.
While riders must follow the law, motor vehicle drivers must as well. The risk for bikers is far greater when a driver violates a traffic law because bike riders have little protection when an accident happens. If you or a loved one suffered an injury as a recreational cyclist, consider hiring a Florida bicycle accident lawyer to pursue any compensation you deserve.
Florida’s Laws Apply Equally to Motor Vehicle Drivers, Bicyclists, and Others Who Share the Road
Florida’s roadways would be in chaos without laws and rules. Thus, every cyclist who uses Florida’s roads and sidewalks must abide by Florida Statutes § 316.2065, and some essential responsibilities that bicyclists must follow include the following:
- Stopping at stop signs and intersections
- Waiting for the right of way before proceeding through intersections
- Maintaining one’s position in bike lanes
- Not crossing the road or entering traffic in a manner that could cause an accident
- Having all necessary brakes and lights on the bike
- Only passing when it is safe and legal to do so
When a bike rider breaks the laws for cyclists in Florida, there is relatively little risk to any motor vehicle driver or passenger who collides with the rider. The outsized risk that bicyclists face underscores why motor vehicle drivers must also obey the law, doing everything they can to avoid hitting a bike rider.
Bike Riders in Florida Face Great Danger from Drivers—Especially Those Who Break the Law
Riders and motorists alike are responsible for causing collisions. However, the reality is that motor vehicle drivers have far more capacity to cause severe injury and death than a bicyclist does.
Your bicycle accident lawyer will examine these factors when determining liability for a car or truck driver.
Violating the Biker’s Right to Space and Right of Way
Bike riders have a right to be on the road so long as they do so legally. Unfortunately, some motorists do not recognize or respect a rider’s right to share the road.
If a motor vehicle driver violated your or a loved one’s right of way, that motorist might be liable for your damages.
Failure to Maintain a Roadworthy Vehicle
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle (FLHSMV) explains that a vehicle owner must take these steps:
- Monitor vehicle recalls involving the car or specific components
- Ensure adequate tire pressure before driving
- Ensure proper tire balance and alignment
- Service and replace brakes as necessary
- Clean and replace lights as necessary
If a motor vehicle owner’s failure to maintain their vehicle leads to an accident, your attorney can make the case against them.
Engaging in Dangerous Behavior
Suppose a bike rider breaks a rule of the road, like veering out of the bike line. A motorist still has a duty to try to avoid a collision. If your lawyer finds that a motorist did not act reasonably to prevent the accident, they may owe you compensation for your accident-related damages.
How You May Respond to an Accident as a Recreational Cyclist
As the person affected by the bicyclist accident, you have total discretion with how to proceed. However, we recommend that you strongly consider these steps.
Receive Treatment and Document Physical, Psychological, and Emotional Injuries
It’s generally prudent for accident victims to seek urgent medical attention, which can:
- Prevent potentially catastrophic health outcomes.
- Establish the connection between the bicycle accident and your injuries and symptoms.
- Provide detailed documentation showing the cost of the at-fault party’s negligence.
If you need assistance, many firms will refer you to qualified medical providers and mental health professionals to provide the care you need.
Consulting a Bicycle Accident Attorney
While only you can decide whether to hire a bicycle accident lawyer, an attorney can help you regain control of your life and seek a fair financial recovery that covers your accident-related losses.
What to Expect From a Florida Bicycle Accident Attorney
Bicycle accident attorneys fulfill many important roles for their clients, including the following:
- Creating an original strategy for your case
- Securing evidence that helps prove fault for your damages
- Documenting the economic and noneconomic harm you’ve suffered because of the at-fault party
- Seeking a fair financial recovery for you
Our attorneys have secured monetary recoveries through insurance settlements, pre-trial settlements, and trials. We will fight for you throughout the duration of your case, regardless of how the case unfolds.
Your Bike Accident Lawyer May Seek Compensation for These Common Damages
Unfortunately, bike riders who collide with motor vehicles often sustain severe injuries that result in victims suffering:
- Hefty medical bills
- Significant lost income
- Diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Our Florida wrongful death lawyers also understand the world-shattering costs of losing a loved one. Our team will help your family pick up the pieces and get the money you need to keep going during this troubling time.
Call the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato Today for a Free Consultation About Hiring a Florida Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Our caring and attentive staff at the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato has secured more than $200 million for our clients. We give attorneys a good name, and we ask you to consider hiring a Florida bicycle accident attorney from our team.
Let us tell you more about how our firm can help—from explaining Florida bicycle accident laws to fighting for fair compensation on your behalf. Call the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato today for your free consultation.
