Orlando Bicycle Accident Lawyer - Fighting for Cyclists' Rights
Protecting cyclists' rights on Florida roads
As an experienced Orlando bicycle accident attorney, I help injured cyclists recover maximum compensation after being hit by cars or injured due to dangerous road conditions.
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Florida Bicycle Laws & Your Rights as a Cyclist
Under Florida law, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. This means drivers must treat bicycles as vehicles and give them the same respect on the road.
Key Florida Bicycle Laws:
- Drivers must maintain at least 3 feet of clearance when passing cyclists
- Cyclists can use the full lane when necessary for safety
- Helmet requirements only apply to cyclists under 16 years old
- Cyclists must follow traffic signals and signs like other vehicles
- Drivers are prohibited from throwing objects at cyclists
- Cyclists have the right to ride on most Orlando area roads
Common Orlando Bicycle Accident Locations
Bicycle accidents in Orlando and Central Florida frequently occur at these high-risk locations:
Holding Others Responsible for Bicycle Injuries
If you were injured in a bicycle accident in Orlando or Central 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.
Potentially Liable Parties in Orlando Bicycle Accidents:
- Negligent drivers who failed to yield right of way
- City of Orlando for dangerous road conditions
- Orange County for poorly maintained bike lanes
- Commercial vehicle operators and their employers
- Property owners with dangerous parking lot conditions
- Bicycle or vehicle manufacturers for defective products
What Happens When a Bicyclist is Hit by a Car in Orlando?
Consequences for the Driver
The driver can face fines, points off their license, and even harsher punishment if they violate Florida traffic laws and cause serious injury or death to a cyclist. Criminal charges may include reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter in severe cases.
Insurance Coverage for Injured Cyclists
Injured cyclists may be able to claim medical benefits from their own car insurance company if they own a vehicle or live with someone who does. Florida's Personal Injury Protection (PIP) can provide immediate medical payments regardless of fault. The at-fault driver's insurance should cover additional damages.
What if I Wasn't Wearing a Helmet During My Orlando Bike Accident?
Florida Helmet Law for Cyclists
In Florida, if you are over 16 years old you are not required to wear a helmet while cycling. Failure to wear a helmet will not prevent you from recovering compensation, but insurance companies may argue it contributed to the severity of your injuries, potentially affecting the amount you receive.
Legal Strategy Considerations
While not wearing a helmet doesn't bar your claim, it's important to work with an experienced Orlando bicycle accident attorney who can effectively counter any comparative negligence arguments and maximize your recovery.
What if it Was a Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident in Orlando?
If you were hit by a car while riding a bike in Orlando and the driver fled the scene, there are four critical steps you should take to protect your legal rights and ensure you can recover compensation:
- 1
File a Police Report with Orlando PD as Soon as Possible
Even though the driver fled, Orlando Police have many resources to locate hit-and-run drivers, including traffic cameras, surveillance footage from nearby businesses, and witness accounts. A documented police report is essential for insurance claims and any potential criminal charges against the driver.
- 2
Get Medical Help Immediately
Your health is the top priority, and delaying medical treatment can harm both your wellbeing and your legal case. Insurance adjusters will question the severity of your injuries if you don't seek immediate medical attention, often arguing "If you were so badly injured, why didn't you see a doctor right away?"
- 3
Locate and Interview Witnesses
Get contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident or stopped to help after the driver fled. Witnesses can provide crucial details about the vehicle, driver, license plate, and how the accident occurred. This information can be vital for both finding the driver and proving your case.
- 4
Inform Your Auto and Health Insurance Companies
In hit-and-run cases, your own car insurance policy may be your primary source of compensation through uninsured motorist coverage. Contact your insurance company immediately to report the accident and understand your coverage options. Also notify your health insurance about the accident-related medical expenses.
What Compensation Can I Recover After an Orlando Bicycle Accident?
Orlando bicycle accident victims may be entitled to recover various types of damages depending on the severity of their injuries and circumstances of the crash:
Economic Damages:
- Medical expenses and future medical care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Bicycle repair or replacement costs
- Property damage to cycling equipment
- Transportation costs for medical appointments
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of consortium (for spouses)
Next Steps for Your Orlando Bicycle Accident Case
If you have questions about your Florida bicycle accident case or injury claim, you can download a FREE copy of Wade Coye's book, Sharing the Secrets, Learning the Lies: A Guide to Florida Personal Injury. This comprehensive guide explains your rights as an accident victim in Florida.
You can also contact our expert Orlando bicycle accident legal team by booking a free strategy session today or by filling out our contact form. Call (407) 648-4940 for immediate assistance.
Contact Us Today for a Free Strategy Session for Your Case.
Book A Free Strategy Session
Contact Our Orlando Bicycle Accident Lawyers Today
Ready to discuss your bicycle accident case? Contact us for a free strategy meeting. Call (407) 648-4940 now.