Bicycling is a great way to get exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and commute to work or school. However, it’s important to be aware of the dangers of sharing the road with motor vehicles. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, each year approximately 850 bicyclists die, and another 47,000 are injured in roadway crashes. The most common type of bicycle accident is a collision with a motor vehicle. Other common causes of bicycle accidents include:
Dooring: When a driver or passenger in a parked car opens their door without first checking for oncoming traffic, they may “door” a passing cyclist. This can cause cyclists to be thrown off their bikes and suffer serious injuries.
Road Hazards: Potholes, sewer grates, debris, and cracked pavement can cause cyclists to lose control of their bikes and crash.
Wrong-Way Riding: Cyclists who ride against traffic are more likely to be involved in collisions because drivers aren’t expecting them and may not be able to avoid them in time.
Who Is Liable in a Bicycle Accident?
If you were hit by a car while riding your bicycle, there are several parties who could be held liable:
The Driver of the Vehicle
The first potential defendant is the driver of the vehicle. If the driver was negligent in operating the car, they could be responsible for damages resulting from the accident. To prove negligence, you must show that the driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused you to suffer damages due to the breach.
For example, all drivers must operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe way. If a driver breaches that duty by texting while driving and hits a bicyclist, then the driver may be held liable for any injuries or damages caused by the accident.
The Owner of The Vehicle
The second potential defendant is the owner of the vehicle. Even if someone else was driving the vehicle at the time of the accident, under certain circumstances, the owner might still be liable for any resulting damages. For example, if an owner lends their car to someone they know is not a licensed driver, and that unlicensed driver gets into an accident with a bicyclist, courts have found that the owner can be held vicariously liable.
In Florida, the owner of a car might be held liable even if they had no reason to believe the person they lent the car to would cause harm to someone else.
Municipality
Another potential defendant is the municipality where the accident occurred. If there is poor lighting or signage at an intersection which contributed to the accident, the city may be liable for the existence of such poor conditions. Additionally, they could be responsible if a hazardous condition on public property (such as potholes) caused the accident.
Why Hire GOLDLAW For Your Florida Bicycle Accident Claim?
At GOLDLAW, we understand that no two cases are alike. That’s why we offer our clients personalized attention and tailored legal strategies. When you hire us, you can expect the following:
- A Free Case Evaluation: During your initial consultation, we’ll review your case and explain your legal options. This consultation is free, and there’s no obligation to hire us after it’s over.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency basis. If we don’t win, you don’t pay. It’s as simple as that.
- Aggressive Pursuit of Compensation: We understand the financial burden an injury can place on a family—that’s why we fight hard to get our clients the maximum compensation they deserve under the law. You can rest assured knowing that we have your best interests at heart every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.