If you are reading this, then you or a loved one have likely been involved in a bicycle accident. Suffering an injury in any type of accident is a confusing and overwhelming experience. Add to that the fact that most people do not know what to do after a bicycle accident, and you have a recipe for disaster. Depending on your circumstances, you could be entitled to compensation that will help reimburse you for medical expenses and income you are losing from being unable to work. Let GOLDLAW help you. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
Breaking Down Florida’s Bike Laws
Cycling is a great way to get around Florida—it’s good for your health, good for the environment, and can even be faster than driving during rush hour. But while cycling comes with a lot of benefits, it also comes with some risks. That’s why it’s important to understand Florida’s bike laws before hitting the road. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
- Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists on Florida roads. As a cyclist, you must obey all traffic signals and signs, ride with traffic, and yield to pedestrians. You are also required to use hand signals to indicate when you are turning, changing lanes, or stopping.
- Bicycle riders or passengers under the age of 16 must wear a helmet.
- Florida law requires that all bicycles be equipped with a brake that allows the rider to stop within 25 feet when traveling 10 miles per hour on dry pavement.
- All cyclists riding between sunset and sunrise must have a white light on the front of their bike that is visible from at least 500 feet away.
- If a child does not wear a bicycle helmet, the fact that they weren’t wearing one and/or that their parent didn’t prevent them from riding without one, cannot be considered as evidence of contributory negligence.
Of course, even following all these laws cannot completely eliminate the risk of being involved in an accident—especially given the fact that drivers often fail to yield to cyclists or otherwise share the road safely. If you are injured in a cycling accident due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to monetary compensation.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Claim for a Bicycle Accident?
There are a few different types of compensation that you may be able to claim for a bicycle accident, including:
- Medical Expenses: This can include the cost of any treatment you needed as a result of the accident, such as hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and medication. It can also include any future medical expenses that may be related to the accident.
- Lost Earnings: If you have had to miss work or have had your earning capacity reduced as a result of the accident, you may be able to claim these lost earnings. This can include not only wages but bonuses, benefits, and commissions as well.
- Pain and Suffering: This is intended to compensate you for the physical and emotional pain and suffering that has been caused by the accident.
- Other Damages: There may be other damages that are specific to your case that you can claim. For example, if you have incurred damage to your bicycle or other personal belongings in the accident, you could be compensated for this.
Why You Should Hire GOLDLAW
GOLDLAW has a long track record of fighting for the rights of cyclists who have been injured in accidents. No matter how your bicycle accident occurred, we can help.
- We have a team of experienced attorneys who are ready to fight for you.
- We are empathetic to the trauma you have suffered, which drives our commitment to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
- We strive for excellence in everything we do, and we help you, whatever it takes.
- We hold individuals and entities accountable so you can get the justice you deserve.
If you were involved in a bicycle accident, we will review your case and advise you of your legal options. There is no risk or obligation. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.