Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers | June 4, 2025 | Bicycle Accidents
The Riverwalk runs through the center of Tampa. It connects the Tampa Museum of Art, Curtis Hixon Park, the Florida Aquarium, and the convention center. You can walk to a concert, grab dinner, or catch a view of the sunset over the water.
The Tampa Riverwalk draws a steady mix of locals and tourists. It stretches along the Hillsborough River, linking parks, museums, and restaurants. People walk, bike, and ride e-scooters up and down it every day. However, that constant movement can lead to accidents if people aren’t paying attention.
You need to stay alert when you use the Riverwalk. Cars cross it at certain points; cyclists and pedestrians share the same space; and e-bikes sometimes move too fast. Without taking proper safety precautions, someone can get hurt.
Common Hazards for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Crashes happen when people stop paying attention or assume others will watch out for them. Some of the biggest issues include:
- Intersections: Cars don’t always stop at crosswalks.
- Crowds: Large groups can clog the path and block sightlines.
- Speed: Fast-moving cyclists or e-scooters can knock people over.
- Obstacles: Cracks, debris, or uneven bricks can cause falls.
Be aware of these hazards when you are bicycling or walking along the Riverwalk.
Safety Tips for Walking and Riding Along the Riverwalk
If you walk, bike, or ride along the Riverwalk, follow these basic rules:
- Use marked bike lanes.
- Slow down near crowds.
- Watch for cars turning.
- Signal before passing.
- Wear a helmet.
- Stay off your phone.
If you ride, make sure your brakes and lights work. If you walk, stay to the side. Don’t block the whole path.
City Regulations That Affect Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety
Tampa enforces rules to help keep everyone safe:
- Cyclists must yield to pedestrians.
- E-bikes must follow posted speed limits.
- Helmets are required for riders under 16.
- Certain areas limit bike and scooter use.
The city also updates signals and signs where needed. Still, you must follow the rules. These rules exist to prevent avoidable injuries and keep everyone safe.
Injuries Frequently Reported on the Riverwalk
The most common injuries include:
- Cuts and bruises from slips or falls
- Broken bones after bike crashes
- Head injuries from collisions
- Sprains from sudden impacts
Some injuries may seem minor at first, but symptoms can worsen over time if left untreated.
Liability for Accidents on the Tampa Riverwalk
Liability depends on what caused the crash. If a cyclist hits a pedestrian, the pedestrian could pursue a claim. If a driver runs a red light and strikes someone in a crosswalk, that driver is at fault.
In some cases, the city may share liability. That happens when poor lighting, broken pavement, or missing signs contribute to a crash.
An attorney can help figure out who is liable. They can also file a claim if you have medical bills or lost income.
Steps to Take After an Injury on the Riverwalk
If you get hurt on the Riverwalk, take these steps:
- Get medical help right away.
- Take photos of the scene.
- Collect names and contact info from witnesses.
- File a police report.
- Talk to a lawyer.
Don’t assume you’ll feel better tomorrow, as some injuries take days to appear. A report creates a record in case you need to file a claim.
Contact the Tampa Bicycle Accident Law Firm of Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer in Tampa. We have convenient locations in Florida: St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.
We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg Law Office
840 Beach Dr NE Suite 202
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Safety Harbor Law Office
202 9th Ave S Suite A-2
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 787-2500