Miami Bicycle Accident Attorney

The 2 main causes of bicycle crashes are falls and accidents with cars. Unfortunately, bicycle-car collisions are much more common – and much more serious.

The most common causes of car accidents involving bicycles include:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Unsafe lane changes
• Following a cyclist too closely
• Failing to leave 3 feet of space while passing
• Turning without checking for bicyclists or pedestrians
• Running a red light or stop sign
• Failure to yield 
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Drowsy or fatigued driving 

Other causes of bicycle accidents include unsafe road conditions, obstacles in the road, striking a fixed object, or swerving to hit an animal. 

If you fall off your bike while riding, you are unlikely to sustain serious injuries – especially if you wear a helmet. If you get hit by a car, however, you could be seriously injured or die.

Our Miami bicycle accident attorneys can help you deal with the aftermath of a car-bicycle collision. Call (305) 600-3555 today.

Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
 

Head injuries, including skull fractures, concussions, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are the most common injuries in bicycle accidents, which is why it is so important to wear a helmet.

Other common injuries in bicycle accidents include:

• Face and eye injuries
• Sprains and strains
• Dislocations
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Chest injuries (rib fractures and lung injuries)
• Internal injuries (in the abdominal region)
• Urethral, rectal, and vulvar trauma
• Pelvic fractures and injuries
• Death

To reduce their risk of serious injury and death, bicyclists must know and follow the rules of the road. Drivers must learn to share the road, as well.

If you are harmed by a driver who fails to share the road, seek medical attention immediately – and do not hesitate to talk to an attorney about your situation.

Florida Bicycle Laws

In Florida, all bicyclists and passengers under age 16 are required to wear helmets. The state also recommends riders make sure all equipment on their bicycles is in working order before heading out, and advises them to wear appropriate shoes and neon, fluorescent, or bright colors when riding.

Bicyclists are required to follow the same traffic laws as other motorists on the roadway, including signs, signals, and lane markings. Like other drivers, bicyclists may not text and drive or ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Florida law also requires bicyclists to have headlight lamps and taillight lamps and reflectors if riding between the hours of sunset and sunrise.

If you follow all of Florida’s bicycle laws and safety tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of a bicycle accident. Nevertheless, you cannot control other drivers on the road.

If you or a loved one gets hit by a car while riding their bike, schedule a free consultation with our firm to learn more about your rights and legal options.