Bicycle Accident Attorneys

As more and more cities expand existing roadways to accommodate a growing number of bicyclists, the risk of an accident is always present. The personal injury lawyers with the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. understand that these accidents have an immediate impact on your life and for those around you. Contact us today for assistance filing a claim following a bike accident so you can focus on healing. 

Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents

Bicyclists are bound by the same duties and rights given to drivers of other vehicles in Florida but this doesn’t negate accidents from occurring. The causes for these accidents vary depending on a number of circumstances, but four of the most common causes are:

  • Failure to yield right-of-way;
  • Distracted driving;
  • Careless or reckless driving; and/or
  • Running stop signs and other traffic signals.

Tips To Reduce Bicycle Accident Injuries

Although a bicyclist has little defense against the size and weight of a vehicle in the event of a collision, there are still several things you can do to reduce the severity of injuries. 

Be Vigilant Around Vehicles

It’s always recommended to be vigilant around any type of roadway and traffic, but more so at intersections and while making turns. These two areas tend to have a higher frequency of bicycle accidents than other parts of a roadway. 

Always Wear A Helmet

Wearing a helmet can reduce the incidence of suffering a head injury by 50 percent and a face or neck injury by 33 percent. The State of Florida requires children younger than 16 to always wear a helmet when riding a bike. 

Make Sure The Bike Is Road-Ready

Before enjoying the outdoors on your bicycle, make sure it’s road-ready each time. Check the tire pressure and tread wear, gear chain, and that the brakes are in working order. 

Can I Be Held Responsible For A Bicycle Accident As A Cyclist?

Yes, at least partially. This is because cyclists are required to follow the same laws and regulations which guide motor traffic each day. Running a traffic signal, for example, can result in you carrying at least partial fault if you’re then struck by a vehicle which had the right-of-way. Most of the time the contributory negligence doesn’t cancel your right to seek and receive compensation for injuries sustained in a bike accident. If you’ve been involved in an accident or have questions about responsibility, contact a bicycle accident attorney with the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A.

Filing A Personal Injury Claim For A Biking Accident

When you or a loved one are involved in a biking accident, short- and long-term medical care are many times needed. This care may be paid for by personal private insurance but is usually partially covered by compensation received through a personal injury claim. Three factors need to be present to file a claim: 

  • The vehicle driver was careless, negligent, or otherwise violated driving rules; 
  • The actions of the driver directly caused the accident; and
  • The bicyclist suffered actual harm in the accident and their injury or death had a financial and/or physical loss on the lives of family members.