At the law offices of Brandon J. Broderick, we are committed to providing honest and reliable legal representation to our clients. We will thoroughly investigate your case, communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, and build a strong claim to support your recovery. With decades of personal injury experience, our team is ready to help you focus on healing while we fight for your rights.

By hiring a Florida bicycle accident lawyer from Brandon J. Broderick, you can be confident that we will work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case. Failing to file a claim could result in insufficient compensation from your insurer for your injuries and even a denial of certain claims, leaving you to cover some of the expenses yourself. Contact us immediately, and we’ll support you through your recovery, ensuring this doesn't happen to you or a loved one.

Reach out to us today at (877) 941-2767. We are available to assist you day or night.

Below you'll find helpful information if you've been involved in a bicycle accident in the state of Florida:

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Florida and believe it was due to someone else’s negligence, it is important to consult with a skilled bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Serious injuries often lead to mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can help you pursue compensation by building a strong claim for damages.

Expert Representation With Decades of Experience

At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, our team is dedicated to building a strong case on your behalf. We thoroughly gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to prove the other party’s negligence. By managing complex legal details and negotiating with insurers and at-fault parties, we ease your burden so you can focus on recovery. If a fair settlement isn’t reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court and fight for the compensation you deserve.

We Offer No-Cost, Confidential Consultations in Florida

We provide free, confidential legal consultations to help you assess your situation and explore your options. If you choose to work with us, you pay nothing unless we secure a settlement. Many clients feel relieved after taking the first step by calling us. Let us guide you through this process with the care and expertise you deserve.

What Are the Bicycle Laws in Florida?

Florida has specific laws designed to protect cyclists and ensure they share the road safely with motorists.

Here are the key regulations every cyclist and driver should know:

  • Bicycles Are Considered Vehicles
    Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers and must obey all traffic laws, including stop signs and traffic signals.
  • Where Cyclists Can Ride
    Cyclists should ride as close as possible to the right-hand curb unless they are passing, making a left turn, avoiding hazards, or riding on a one-way street.
  • Use of Bike Lanes
    If a bike lane is available, cyclists are encouraged to use it but are not legally required to do so.
  • Helmet Requirements
    Riders under 16 years old must wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards. Adults are not required to wear helmets but are strongly encouraged to for safety.
  • Lighting Requirements for Night Riding
    Bicycles must have a white front light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear light or reflector visible from 600 feet when riding at night.
  • Sidewalk Riding Rules
    Cyclists can ride on sidewalks unless local laws prohibit it. They must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing.
  • Riding in Groups
    Cyclists can ride two abreast in a lane but must not block traffic. If riding side by side creates a hazard, they must ride single file.
  • Passing and Motorist Responsibilities
    Drivers must give cyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing. Failure to do so can result in fines or penalties.
  • Prohibited Actions
    Cyclists cannot attach themselves to motor vehicles or wear headphones in both ears while riding.
  • DUI Laws Apply to Cyclists
    Riding a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can result in similar penalties as driving under the influence.

Understanding Florida’s bicycle laws helps cyclists stay safe and ensures they can protect their legal rights if involved in an accident.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

Taking the right steps immediately after a bicycle accident in Florida can protect your health and legal rights. Knowing what to do at the scene can make a difference in securing compensation for your injuries and damages.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident

  • Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Help
    Your health is the top priority. If you are seriously injured, call 911 or ask someone to get medical help. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  • Move to a Safe Location
    If possible, move to a safe area to avoid further danger from traffic. However, do not leave the scene until authorities arrive.
  • Call the Police
    Reporting the accident is very important. A police report can serve as important evidence for your claim. Provide accurate details but avoid admitting fault.
  • Gather Evidence at the Scene
    Take photos and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, your damaged bicycle, and any involved vehicles. Capture road conditions, traffic signs, and any other relevant details.
  • Exchange Information
    Get the driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, and insurance details. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses.
  • Do Not Negotiate with the Driver
    Avoid discussing fault or making agreements at the scene. Anything you say could be used against you later.
  • Seek Medical Attention Again if Necessary
    Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Follow up with a doctor even if you initially feel fine.
  • Notify Your Insurance Company
    If you have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process.
  • Consult a FL Bicycle Accident Lawyer
    An attorney can help you understand your legal options, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Taking These Steps Matters

Handling a bicycle accident properly can improve your chances of recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Taking quick action and seeking legal guidance can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair treatment after an accident.

What Are the Most Common Injuries Resulting from Bicycle Accidents in Florida?

Bicycle accidents in Florida can lead to a wide range of injuries, some of which are minor, while others can have severe or even life-altering consequences. Given the limited protection that bicycles offer compared to motor vehicles, cyclists are particularly vulnerable to a crash.

Here are some of the most common injuries resulting from bicycle accidents in Florida:

  1. Head Injuries: Head injuries are among the most serious injuries cyclists can experience. Even with a helmet, a severe impact can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, or skull fractures. TBIs can cause long-term cognitive and physical impairments, significantly impacting the victim's quality of life.
  2. Broken Bones: Fractures are common in bicycle accidents, as cyclists often absorb the impact of a crash directly. Commonly broken bones include the collarbone, arms, wrists, ribs, and legs. Some fractures can require surgery and extensive rehabilitation, depending on their severity.
  3. Spinal Cord Injuries: Bicycle crashes can also lead to injuries to the spine, such as herniated discs or, in more severe cases, spinal cord injuries. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly affecting a victim’s mobility and independence.
  4. Internal Injuries: The force of a collision can cause damage to internal organs, such as the lungs, liver, or spleen. These injuries can be life-threatening and may require emergency surgery. Internal bleeding is particularly dangerous because it might not be immediately apparent after an accident.
  5. Road Rash and Lacerations: When cyclists are thrown from their bikes, they often slide along the road, resulting in road rash. This painful abrasion occurs when skin scrapes against asphalt or concrete. While many cases of road rash are minor, severe instances can lead to deep wounds, infections, and scarring.
  6. Soft Tissue Injuries: Ligament, tendon, and muscle injuries are common in bicycle accidents. These include sprains, strains, and tears, particularly in the neck, back, and shoulders. Whiplash, a neck injury caused by rapid back-and-forth movement, can also occur if a cyclist is struck by a vehicle.
  7. Facial Injuries: Bicycle accidents can result in facial injuries, such as broken noses, fractured jaws, and dental injuries. In some cases, these injuries may require reconstructive surgery or dental work, such as implants or crowns.
  8. Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, many cyclists experience psychological trauma after a serious accident. Conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression are common, especially if the accident was particularly traumatic or resulted in long-term injuries.

Due to Florida’s warm weather and outdoor lifestyle, bicycling is a popular activity, but it also means that bicycle accidents are a common occurrence. If a cyclist suffers serious injuries in a crash, seeking prompt medical attention is critical.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Florida?

Bicycle accidents in Florida can happen for many reasons, often due to negligence by drivers, cyclists, or hazardous road conditions.

Here are the most common causes:

  1. Distracted Driving
    • Motorists texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment can fail to notice cyclists, leading to collisions.
  2. Failure to Yield
    • Drivers often fail to yield to cyclists at intersections, crosswalks, or when making turns, causing serious accidents.
  3. Speeding
    • Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time, making it harder to avoid hitting a cyclist, especially in urban areas.
  4. Dooring Incidents
    • A parked driver opening their door without checking for cyclists can cause a sudden and dangerous crash.
  5. Unsafe Lane Changes
    • Drivers who fail to check their blind spots or signal when changing lanes can hit cyclists riding alongside them.
  6. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
    • Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times and poor judgment, increasing the risk of hitting cyclists.
  7. Cyclists Ignoring Traffic Laws
    • Running red lights, stop signs, or riding against traffic can put cyclists in dangerous situations with motor vehicles.
  8. Poor Road Conditions
    • Potholes, debris, or inadequate bike lanes can cause cyclists to lose control or swerve into traffic.
  9. Low Visibility at Night
    • Lack of proper lighting, reflectors, or bright clothing makes it harder for drivers to see cyclists, leading to nighttime accidents.
  10. Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
  • Some drivers intentionally drive too close, honk aggressively, or engage in reckless behavior that endangers cyclists.

Understanding these common causes can help cyclists and motorists take precautions to reduce the risk of accidents. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, seeking legal guidance can help protect your rights and secure fair compensation.

Who Is at Fault in a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

Determining who is at fault in a bicycle accident in Florida depends on the circumstances of the crash, and it typically revolves around which party was negligent or violated traffic laws. Both motorists and cyclists are required to follow the rules of the road, meaning either party can be held responsible if they were acting carelessly or recklessly at the time of the accident.

Common factors that can determine fault include:

  1. Failure to Yield: Motorists who fail to yield to cyclists at intersections, crosswalks, or bike lanes may be at fault for a collision. Florida law requires drivers to give cyclists the right of way in many situations.
  2. Distracted or Reckless Driving: If the motorist was distracted, speeding, or engaging in reckless behavior such as running a red light, they could be found at fault for the accident.
  3. Failure to Follow Traffic Signals: Cyclists who fail to follow traffic laws, such as running stop signs or traffic lights, can be held liable if their actions contribute to the accident.
  4. Improper Lane Usage: Cyclists and drivers must stay in their respective lanes. If a motorist encroaches on a bike lane or a cyclist veers into traffic without signaling, this can influence the assignment of fault.
  5. Dooring Incidents: A dooring accident is when a vehicle door is opened into the path of a cyclist, pedestrian, or scooter rider. This can happen when a driver is exiting a parked car or when a passenger opens a door. Dooring accidents can cause serious injuries or death. If a driver opens their car door without checking for oncoming cyclists and a collision occurs, the driver is usually held liable.
  6. Road Conditions: Sometimes, road conditions such as poor signage, hazardous debris, or potholes can contribute to accidents. In such cases, a government entity responsible for maintaining the road may share liability.

Florida also follows a "comparative negligence" rule, which means fault can be shared between the cyclist and the driver.

For negligence to be established in a Florida personal injury case, the following four elements must be proven:

Duty

One party (the defendant) has a responsibility to another party (the plaintiff) in the form of a "duty.” In general, the defendant owes an obligation to anyone who might suffer harm as a result of their actions.

Breach

The defendant has failed to fulfill their “duty” obligation by not acting appropriately. An example of this could be disobeying traffic laws.

Causation

The defendant's negligence (the driver ran a red light and injured a cyclist, for example) was what led to the plaintiff's injury.

Damages

Damages are awarded when another party sustains injury or financial loss as a result of a breach of "duty" by one of the parties.

Proving fault in a bicycle accident may require evidence such as witness statements, traffic camera footage, police reports, and expert testimony. A bicycle accident attorney at Brandon J. Broderick can help gather and analyze this evidence to determine liability and pursue appropriate compensation for the injured party.

How Does Florida's Modified Comparative Negligence Law Work in Bicycle Accident Cases?

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence law in bicycle accident cases, which can significantly affect how much compensation a victim receives after a crash. Under this system, fault for an accident is divided among all parties involved, and each party’s compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. However, Florida’s version of modified comparative negligence, effective as of March 2023, includes a key rule: if a party is found to be more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover any compensation for their damages.

Here’s how it works in a bicycle accident case:

  1. Determining Fault: After a bicycle accident, investigators will assess who was at fault based on evidence such as witness statements, police reports, traffic camera footage, and the actions of both the cyclist and the motorist involved.
  2. Assigning Percentages of Fault: If both the cyclist and the motorist share some responsibility for the accident, fault will be divided into percentages. For example, if a motorist failed to yield to a cyclist, but the cyclist was riding outside of the designated bike lane, fault may be split, such as 60% to the driver and 40% to the cyclist.
  3. Impact on Compensation: The cyclist’s compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. In the above example, if the cyclist is awarded $100,000 in damages but is found 40% at fault, they would receive $60,000 instead of the full amount.
  4. The 51% Bar: Florida’s modified comparative negligence law imposes a stricter threshold: if a cyclist is found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, they will be barred from recovering any compensation. For example, if a cyclist is 51% at fault for running a red light and causing the accident, they would not be able to recover any damages from the driver.

This law aims to ensure that individuals who are primarily responsible for their own injuries do not receive compensation but still allows those who are partially at fault to recover a portion of their damages, provided their responsibility does not exceed 50%.

In a bicycle accident case, it is highly recommended to work with an experienced attorney who can help gather evidence, prove fault, and negotiate for fair compensation. They can also protect the cyclist from being unfairly assigned a higher percentage of fault, which would significantly reduce or eliminate their ability to recover damages.

Can I Sue a Driver After a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

Yes, you can sue a driver after a bicycle accident in Florida, but certain conditions must be met to file a successful lawsuit. Florida operates under a "no-fault" insurance system for motor vehicle accidents, which means that your own insurance (Personal Injury Protection or PIP) typically covers your medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles can still lead to lawsuits if the injuries are severe or the circumstances warrant additional legal action.

Florida’s no-fault insurance only covers medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit. If your injuries are serious or permanent, such as significant disfigurement, permanent disability, or loss of bodily function, you can step outside the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for additional damages. These could include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and other non-economic losses.

How Does PIP Insurance Work After a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is a no-fault coverage that applies to medical expenses and lost wages after a bicycle accident in Florida. Since Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, PIP benefits are available to cyclists regardless of who caused the accident. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how PIP works for bicycle accident victims.

Who Is Covered by PIP After a Bicycle Accident?

  • Cyclists Who Own a Vehicle: If you own a car and have PIP insurance, your policy will cover your injuries even if you were riding a bicycle at the time of the accident.
  • Cyclists Without a Vehicle: If you do not own a car, you may still be covered under a household relative’s PIP insurance (such as a spouse or parent).
  • Cyclists Without Any PIP Coverage: If you don’t own a car and have no access to a relative’s policy, you may be eligible for PIP benefits from the at-fault driver’s insurance.

What Does PIP Insurance Cover for Bicycle Accident Victims?

  • Medical Expenses: Covers up to 80% of medical bills, including hospital visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost Wages: Pays 60% of lost income if injuries prevent you from working.
  • Death Benefits: Provides up to $5,000 to the family of a cyclist who dies in an accident.
  • Mileage Reimbursement: May cover travel expenses for medical appointments.

PIP Coverage Limits in Florida

  • Florida law requires $10,000 in PIP coverage for all vehicle owners.
  • If injuries are not classified as an emergency, coverage is limited to $2,500.
  • PIP only covers economic damages (medical bills and lost wages) but does not provide compensation for pain and suffering.

Filing a PIP Claim After a Bicycle Accident

  • Seek Medical Attention Within 14 Days: Florida law requires that you see a doctor within 14 days of the accident to qualify for PIP benefits.
  • Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your PIP provider as soon as possible and provide necessary documentation, including medical records and police reports.
  • Submit Medical Bills: Your healthcare provider may bill PIP directly, or you may need to submit claims for reimbursement.

When Can You File a Lawsuit for Additional Compensation?

  • PIP does not cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering or permanent disabilities.
  • If your injuries are severe, permanent, or exceed PIP limits, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s bodily injury liability (BIL) insurance or sue them for damages.
  • Florida’s modified comparative negligence law applies, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault.

Why You Should Consider Legal Assistance

  • Insurance companies may deny or delay valid claims, leaving you with out-of-pocket expenses.
  • A personal injury attorney at Brandon J. Broderick can help you maximize your compensation, handle negotiations, and determine if a lawsuit is necessary.
  • If the driver involved is uninsured or underinsured, legal assistance can help explore alternative compensation options.

PIP insurance provides important financial protection for cyclists injured in accidents, but it has coverage limits and does not compensate for pain and suffering. If you’ve been hurt in a bicycle accident in Florida, understanding your PIP benefits and legal options is essential. If your injuries are serious, consulting an attorney can help you seek additional compensation beyond what PIP covers.

What Compensation Can I Receive After a Bicycle Accident in Florida?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Florida, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. The amount and type of compensation depend on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and the insurance policies involved.

Here are the key types of compensation available:

1. Medical Expenses

  • Covers hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
  • Includes future medical costs for long-term injuries or disabilities.

2. Lost Wages and Future Earnings

  • Reimbursement for income lost while recovering from injuries.
  • Compensation for reduced earning capacity if you are unable to return to work or must take a lower-paying job due to your injuries.

3. Pain and Suffering

  • Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident.
  • Includes conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression related to the crash.

4. Property Damage

  • Covers the cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle and any other damaged property.
  • May also include compensation for damaged personal items such as helmets, clothing, or electronic devices.

5. Disability and Disfigurement

  • If the accident results in permanent disability or disfigurement, additional compensation may be awarded to cover the lifelong impact on your quality of life.

6. Loss of Enjoyment of Life

  • Compensation for the inability to participate in hobbies, sports, or daily activities due to accident-related injuries.

7. Wrongful Death Damages

  • If a loved one dies in a bicycle accident, their family may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and lost financial support.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so having a skilled bicycle accident attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a Florida bicycle accident, consulting a legal professional can help you navigate the claims process and fight for fair compensation.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim in Florida?

The statute of limitations in Florida for filing a bicycle accident claim depends on the nature of the case and the type of damages being pursued. Understanding these deadlines is critical because failing to file within the required time frame can result in losing your right to seek compensation.

1. Personal Injury Claims

  • If you were injured in a bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
  • This deadline applies to claims against negligent drivers, government entities, or other responsible parties.

2. Property Damage Claims

  • If your bicycle or other personal property was damaged in the accident, you have two years from the accident date to file a claim for property damage.

3. Wrongful Death Claims

  • If a bicycle accident results in a fatality, the deceased’s family or estate has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

4. Exceptions That May Extend the Deadline

Certain circumstances may extend or toll the statute of limitations, including:

  • Injuries involving minors: If the injured cyclist is under 18, the statute of limitations may be extended in some cases.
  • Delayed discovery of injuries: If injuries were not immediately apparent, the deadline may begin from the date the injury was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.
  • Defendant leaving the state: If the at-fault party leaves Florida for a period, the time they are absent may not count toward the statute of limitations.

Why Filing Early Matters

Waiting too long to file can make it harder to gather evidence, obtain witness statements, and negotiate with insurance companies. Filing within the legal time frame ensures you have the best chance of recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

If you’ve been injured in a Florida bicycle accident, consulting with an experienced attorney at Brandon J. Broderick as soon as possible can help protect your rights and ensure you meet all necessary deadlines.

Bicycle Safety Tips for Bicyclists in Florida to Avoid Crashes

Florida has one of the highest rates of bicycle accidents in the country, making safety a top priority for cyclists. By following these essential safety tips, you can reduce your risk of crashes and protect yourself on the road.

1. Follow Florida Bicycle Laws

  • Obey all traffic signals, stop signs, and road markings just like motorists.
  • Ride in the same direction as traffic, never against it.

2. Use Bike Lanes Whenever Possible

  • Stay in designated bike lanes when available to increase visibility and safety.
  • If no bike lane exists, ride as far to the right as safely possible, except when making a turn or avoiding obstacles.

3. Wear a Helmet

  • While helmets are only required for cyclists under 16, wearing one significantly reduces the risk of head injuries.
  • Ensure your helmet fits properly and meets safety standards.

4. Increase Visibility, Especially at Night

  • Wear bright or reflective clothing to make yourself more visible to drivers.
  • Use a white front light and a red rear light or reflector when riding at night, as required by Florida law.

5. Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions

  • Keep both hands on the handlebars and stay focused on the road.
  • Avoid using headphones or mobile devices while riding.

6. Watch for Turning Vehicles

  • Be cautious at intersections, where most bicycle accidents occur.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them to ensure they see you.

7. Use Hand Signals

  • Clearly indicate your turns and stops to alert drivers and other cyclists.
  • Signal well in advance to give others time to react.

8. Avoid Riding on Sidewalks When Possible

  • While riding on sidewalks is legal in most areas, it increases the risk of collisions with pedestrians and vehicles exiting driveways.
  • If riding on a sidewalk, yield to pedestrians and slow down near intersections.

9. Maintain Your Bicycle

  • Check your brakes, tires, and gears regularly to ensure they are in good working condition.
  • Keep your bike properly inflated and replace worn-out components.

10. Be Cautious in Poor Weather Conditions

  • Rain makes roads slippery and reduces visibility for both cyclists and drivers.
  • Use extra caution when braking and avoid sudden turns on wet pavement.

By following these safety tips, cyclists in Florida can reduce their chances of being involved in an accident and enjoy a safer ride. Always remain vigilant, obey traffic laws, and take precautions to protect yourself on the road.

Brandon J. Broderick Is Prepared to Assist You Today if You Have Been Involved in a Bicycle Accident in Florida

We recognize the overwhelming stress and uncertainty that comes after an accident, especially when it involves a cyclist and a vehicle. Whether you're coping with injuries or concerned for a loved one, the emotional and physical toll can be significant. Our priority is to provide compassionate support to accident victims, guiding them through the legal process and helping them seek the compensation they need to move forward.

Brandon J. Broderick's law offices offer outstanding legal services with empathy, compassion, and a proven history of success, positioning us as a leading firm in Florida specializing in personal injury law. You can rely on our expertise to develop strong legal strategies and work tirelessly to enhance your quality of life. Our extensive record of successful outcomes backs this commitment. For decades, our attorneys have been dedicated to advocating for the rights of bicycle accident victims throughout Florida, securing compensation for injuries caused by the negligence or recklessness of others.

Contact us today for a free legal consultation day or night. We look forward to helping you.

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