Bicycle Accidents

Holding Others Responsible for Bicycle Injuries

If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Florida, you can hold someone else responsible for your injuries if you can prove they had a legal duty to exercise reasonable care for your wellbeing and failed to do so.

What Happens if a Bicyclist or Pedestrian is Hit by a Car?

The driver can face fines, points off their license, and even harsher punishment if they violate the law and cause serious injury or even death.

Pedestrians may be able to claim medical benefits from their car insurance company if they own a car or if someone they live with owns a car. Personal injury protection (PIP) can provide medical payments to the insured if they were injured by a car while driving, walking, or riding a bicycle.

What if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?

In Florida, if you are over 16 years old you are not required to wear a helmet. Failure to wear a helmet will not hinder your compensation but may affect the amount you receive.

It is wise to take every precaution in your case and any act that could be perceived as negligent should be avoided.

What if it Was a Hit-and-Run?

If you were hit by a car while riding a bike and the driver fled the scene after the collision, there are four things you should do in order to ensure you receive compensation for your injuries:

1. File a Police Report as Soon as Possible: It may seem hopeless to contact the police once the driver has fled, however, the police have many resources they can use to find the offender. Even if the driver cannot be located, insurance companies will likely require a documented police report in order for you to be compensated.
2. Get Medical Help Immediately: Nothing is more important than your personal health, and ignoring injuries can actually hurt your case. While getting back on your bicycle in spite of painful injuries may actually be an act of mental toughness, insurance adjusters will not view it as such, saying “If you were so badly injured, why didn’t you see a doctor?”
3. Locate Witnesses: Get the contact information of any that may have witnessed the accident or pulled over to help after the driver fled. It may help you find compensation.
4. Inform Your Auto and Health Insurance Companies: In some cases, your only chance of receiving compensation may be filing a claim against your car insurance policy. In order to insure you receive justice, take all necessary precautions and file a claim.

Next Steps for Your Bicycle Accident Case

If you have questions about your Florida auto accident case or injury case, you can download a FREE copy of Wade Coye’s book, Sharing the Secrets, Learning the Lies: A Guide to Florida Personal Injury.

You can also contact our expert team by calling (407) 648-4940 today or by filling out a contact form.