When a careless or irresponsible car driver hits and injures you while you are cycling on the streets or roadways, the injuries are never minor. By default, bicyclists are the most vulnerable vehicle riders on the road due to the absense of any protective gear. By any means, bicyclists are exposed to different road rashes and perils. When collisions happen between bicycles and other motor vehicles, the cyclist suffers injuries the most. When a motor vehicle driver hits a bike, the physical injuries are severe, even if the motor vehicle is at a low speed.
On an alarming note, Florida is becoming one of the deadliest states in the U.S. for cyclists. In 2024, Florida witnessed 9,272 bicycle crashes, where 8,781 victims sustained injuries and 190 bicyclists lost their lives. The U.S. Civil Law empowers cyclists with the same personal injury rights as those of motor vehicle drivers. When a motor vehicle driver violates the traffic law and causes harm to a bicyclist, the injured victim can demand compensation through a personal injury claim.
At this juncture, victims often wonder whether they can have legal resources or back-ups. The answer to this confusion is – yes! A bicycle accident victim can pursue legal action against the driver who hit them. It’s crucial to hire a bicycle accident injury lawyer in one’s journey to justice. In case you have been hit by another vehicle while cycling, our bicycle accident attorneys at Abercrombie, P.A. have your back. Our legal professionals help you secure the settlement amount you deserve for all your losses.
Let’s have a breakdown of the consequences of a bicycle accident and the legal attention it demands. Give a detailed read-through of the piece to know what legal rights you have after the bicycle accident occurs.
Know about your Legal Rights after A Bicycle Accident
Florida is a no-fault state. Cyclists share the same rights as motorists on the Florida roadways. When you are on a bicycle, the drivers around you on the roads must operate their vehicles safely. When they fail to do so or violate any traffic rule or your personal injury rights, they can be held liable for the mishap.
In case a driver’s carelessness causes you an accident, as a bicyclist, you can file a personal injury claim against the vehicle owner or driver. In most cases, the at-fault party’s insurer tries to contact you after the accident to offer you a lowball compensation offer to wrap the matter up on the spot.
It’s always advisable to contact an experienced bike accident attorney when you have been injured due to someone else’s fault. It’s not usual for a commoner to be aware of personal injury law and insurance policies; therefore, having an attorney by your side always proves beneficial for you. From case investigation to proof collection, negotiation to courtroom representation, our attorney helps you receive the maximum compensation.
Primary Causes of Bicycle Accidents
When a car hits a bicycle, typically the car driver is at fault. Some of the common bicycle accident causes include,
- Intersection Accident
Car drivers must be cautious when entering an intersection. In the intersection car accidents, most bicycle accidents occur when a bicycle is hit by a car. Cars take left turns without seeing the cyclist on the right. Bicyclists should also be careful on the way.
- A Cyclist being hit by An Open Car Door
When a car driver carelessly leaves a car door open, and a bicycle suddenly collides against the door, a crash happens. Bicyclists must also check around to be aware of the imminent hazards.
- Sudden Right Turns by Car Drivers
Car drivers need to be careful of their surroundings, especially when making turns. A right turn by the car may be fatal for the bicyclist.
- Rear-end Accident
At times, bicyclists have to share the road with cars when no bike lanes are available. Car drivers must maintain a safe distance ahead, as cyclists can’t always control their speed.
- Distracted Driving
A moment of distraction, whether it’s a glance at the phone or the roadside stall, or a brief trance of intoxication, may result in a catastrophic mishap. Cyclists are more vulnerable on roads because they lack protective barriers, and cars often fail to notice their presence.
Common Injuries Suffered in A Bicycle Accident
A bicycle accident with a car involved may result in serious injuries. In most bicycle accident cases, the bicyclist hits the pavement or road after a collision with a car. The sudden force may cause blunt force trauma to the cyclist’s body. Some of the common bicycle accident injuries include –
- Deep cuts and road rashes
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Facial fractures
- Bone fractures
- Internal bleeding and damage
- Soft tissue injuries
The injuries demand emergency medical care as well as long-term treatment. In cases, the bicyclists can’t go back to their previous normal life like before the accident due to the intensity of pain and damage. That’s why it’s so important to consult a bicycle accident attorney to seek compensation for the losses suffered.
Who holds the Liability?
The car driver who hits a bicycle is liable for the accident and the injuries the bicyclist suffers. Our bicycle accident attorney at Abercrombie, P.A. investigates the case, collects the evidence, and builds a solid compensation claim on the victim’s behalf.
Our legal team has to prove –
- The driver failed to maintain the duty of care.
- The driver violated the traffic law.
- The breach of the law caused the cyclist’s accident
- All the damages and losses are a result of the crash.
Once these points are proven, the car driver can be held legally responsible for the accident. The process is complex and is often contested. Car drivers often try to blame the cyclist for the accident, and the insurance companies attempt to bring down the compensation by denying the victim’s injuries. When you have a bicycle accident attorney by your side, the defense party’s attorney and insurer hear you. You can, as well, sue a driver based on the circumstances, when backed by a seasoned Florida bicycle accident lawyer.
How An Attorney Guides After A Bicycle Accident
If you have suffered an accident due to a car’s recklessness while you were cycling, you must contact a bicycle accident attorney to guide you through the litigation process. Amidst the rising medical bills, physical pain and mental trauma, lost ability to work and earn, loss of relationships and pleasure, and an overall loss of quality of life, the bicycle accident victims struggle. At this point, your bicycle accident attorney shoulders your legal deal, so you can focus on your recovery.
Our bicycle accident attorneys –
- Investigate the accident and collect evidence
- Document the damages and losses
- Consult the medical and legal professionals
- Interview the witnesses and the drivers of other vehicles
- Communicate with the insurance companies
- Negotiate a settlement
- If it’s not settled outside the court, take the case to the court
The battle may be tough, but you don’t have to fight it alone. When you have an expert attorney by your side, the professional protects your rights and your future.
Final Reflections
At Abercrombie, P.A., our team of bicycle accident attorneys is ready to fight for your rights. With years of experience and understanding of Florida Law and regulations, our attorneys handle your case. When we take your case, we focus on every aspect of your bicycle accident case. After decades in the legal field, we understand the pain and suffering that victims have to endure. Connect with us for a free case evaluation. We won’t let you lose.
