John C. Austin | June 26, 2024 | Bicycle Accidents
Bicyclists can be seen throughout Clearwater and other cities in Florida. Cyclists share the road with motor vehicles and pedestrians. To keep everyone safe, Florida has enacted several bicycle safety laws.
Understanding bicycle safety laws in Florida is one of the ways you can protect yourself from a bicycle accident. Florida updated bicycle safety laws include:
- Drivers can only make right turns when passing a bicycle if the cyclist is at least 20 feet from an intersection.
- The state added bicycle safety questions to the questions used for the driver’s license exams.
- Allowing bicyclists to ride in groups of 10 or less through intersections once they come to a complete stop. Motorists must allow one group to pass before proceeding.
- A bicycle may ride on sidewalks unless prohibited by a local ordinance. While riding on a sidewalk, the cyclist has the same rights and duties as a pedestrian.
- All bicycles must be equipped with a brake or brakes that allow stopping within 25 feet from a speed of 10 miles per hour.
- Bicycles must have lights when operated between sunset and sunrise.
- Cyclists must signal turns within 100 feet of making a turn.
- A bicyclist may not wear headphones, headsets, or listening devices while riding, except for one earbud or a hearing aid.
- All cyclists and passengers under the age of 16 years old must wear a bicycle helmet.
The above are just examples of the laws that bicyclists and motorists must obey. Cyclists are expected to know and follow all bicycle traffic laws in Florida.
Can Disobeying Florida Traffic Laws Impact a Bicycle Accident Case?
Motorists must use reasonable care to avoid colliding with a bicycle, including following traffic laws to protect cyclists. However, cyclists are also legally obligated to follow the law and take reasonable steps to protect their safety.
If a bicyclist breaks the law, the other party in an accident case may allege the bicyclist contributed to the cause of the bicycle accident. In these situations, contributory fault could reduce or bar the amount of damages a bicyclist receives for an accident claim.
What Should I Do if I’m Injured in a Bicycle Accident in Clearwater, FL?
A bicycle accident can cause devastating injuries for the cyclist. Common injuries include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), crushing injuries, spinal cord injuries, lacerations, and internal organ damage. A cyclist can receive economic and non-economic damages from the party who caused the bicycle accident.
The steps you take after a bicycle accident can impact the outcome of your personal injury claim. Steps to take include:
- Report the bicycle accident to the police by calling 911.
- Obtain immediate medical treatment for your injuries. See a doctor even if you believe your injuries are not severe.
- Document the bicycle accident scene by making a video and taking pictures.
- Ask witnesses for their names, cell numbers, and other contact information.
- Document your damages by keeping copies of all documents and proof of financial losses.
- Never admit fault for causing the bicycle accident or apologize for the accident.
Bicyclists may have the right to sue the driver or another party for damages. However, Florida insurance laws can be confusing and complicated. An experienced personal injury lawyer can explain your rights during a free consultation.
Get Help With a Bicycle Accident Claim in Clearwater, FL
You are not required to hire an attorney to file a bicycle accident claim. However, an attorney can help in many ways, including defending you against contributory fault allegations and gathering evidence to prove your case. Your attorney also determines the amount of your damages to ensure you maximize your settlement amount.
Call an experienced bicycle accident lawyer if you have questions about a case or need help filing a claim.
We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442