Miramar Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Riding a bicycle in your neighborhood along a path in the local park, or down the road to your office should be fun, economical, and good for the environment. However, an unexpected crash may ruin the experience. While it is true that all cyclists must ride safely and smartly to safeguard against danger, they should not be forced to pay for someone else's mistake, especially one that leaves them suffering physically, emotionally, and financially.
If you find yourself hurt in this kind of crash, count on a Miramar bicycle accident lawyer to help you seek damages for your pain and injuries. After all, you should not be left shouldering the expenses that someone else's carelessness causes. Call a compassionate attorney today for a free case review.
Common Causes of Bike Accidents
Motorists who hit cyclists are typically guilty of one of the more common inappropriate actions, many of which are infractions of Miramar traffic laws. These include but are not necessarily limited to:
- Driving while distracted, often by doing something like fiddling with the radio, texting, or talking on the phone
- Ignoring stop signs
- Failing to yield the right-of-way to cyclists
- Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs
The law makes clear in Florida Statute §316.2065 that bike riders enjoy the same right to the road as motorists. That said, they must also obey the same regulations, which mandate riding either in a bicycle lane or as far to the right side of the road as possible.
However, the actions of a careless driver may overshadow a cyclist's compliance with the law, like when that motorist's turns carry over into the bicycle lane. The driver could be held responsible for both negligent and intentional acts. A bicycle accident lawyer in Miramar could help make the case that the motorist who caused an accident is culpable of either negligence by failing to safely operate their vehicle, or negligence per se by violating Florida law.
Best Ways to Stay Safe on a Bike
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, some 45,000 cyclists incurred injuries in 2015, and over 800 were killed.
While an injured bicyclist could seek compensation if a motorist hits them and causes a crash, there are several precautionary steps bike riders could take to protect themselves while riding. For example, bike riders should avoid dark clothing that makes it difficult for drivers to see them after the sun sets, and they should also use bike lights and reflectors to illuminate themselves and their bike.
Additionally, bicyclists should always pay attention to the road and their surroundings, making certain not to distract themselves with music that may drown out the sound of blaring horns. Furthermore, they should follow the rules of the road, including all traffic signs and lights, and perhaps most important of all, wear a helmet. Should a bicyclist suffer an injury in a crash, appropriate head protection could make the difference between life and death. For more information about staying safe on a bicycle, contact a devoted attorney.
Talk with a Miramar Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
A bicycle accident may lead to serious injuries, so if you are hurt in one, you should contact an attorney who could help you seek the compensation you may be entitled to. While cyclists enjoy the same freedoms as motorists, an experienced Miramar bicycle accident lawyer who understands the protections the law specifically affords you as a bicyclist could effectively and passionately advocate on your behalf.
If you are hurt in a bike crash, you may need a lawyer who respects your right to pedal when and where you want. Call today to schedule an appointment and see how a dedicated local attorney could help you with your case. An in-house doctor is available to provide medical insight into your injury to give you a leg up in court.