Cycling is a common means for locals to get around and travel from one place to another with less hassle. The activity is also fun. Tourists in Florida also enjoy bicycle riding to explore towns, beaches, and scenic beauty. Keeping the joy aside, cyclists are the most vulnerable to road danger. As bicyclists do not have as much protection as those inside an enclosed car, when they are hit in an accident, they sustain serious injuries. If a collision occurs between a bicycle and a motor vehicle, the bicyclist is the one who actually suffers. Pain and trauma from physical injuries, mounting medical bills, lost income from missed working days, trouble in daily life, and emotional trauma take a toll on the injured bicyclist’s life.
A skilled Bicycle Accident Attorney in Winter Park guides an injured cyclist through the legal complexities and protects their right to compensation. These legal professionals are dedicated to serving injured cyclists in recovering them physically, emotionally, and financially.
How Florida Law Saves Cyclists
Under Florida law, bicycles share the same rights and responsibilities as other motor vehicles. Motorists must follow certain traffic laws when driving around bicyclists for the safety of both parties.
Some of these rules include:
- Motorists must allow a minimum of three feet of distance when passing a bicycle;
- Motorists must signal to bicyclists when making a turn;
- Motorists must not block bicycle lanes;
- All roadway users must exercise reasonable care to avoid causing an accident or injury to others on the roadway;
A motorist who has violated one or more of these rules is considered liable for damages caused in an accident due to the same violation. A Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Winter Park can help investigate the accident, collect evidence of negligence, and build a bicycle accident case based on the injuries and damages.
How Much Compensation Do Bicycle Accident Victims Deserve
If a cyclist is injured due to someone else’s reckless action while riding a bicycle in Florida, they can lawfully claim compensation for their injuries and losses. Compensation is available against –
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Lost wages and compromised future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Mental trauma
- Vehicle damages
- Problems doing daily life chores
- Permanent disability and scar
And many more.
Moreover, Florida follows a comparative fault system. According to the law, a certain percentage may be deducted from the victim’s compensation if the victim has been partially responsible for an accident. When the victim hires a Winter Park Bicycle Accident Attorney experienced in handling bicycle accident cases, they have the best chance of recovering their full entitlement to compensation.
Why A Bicycle Accident Case Needs an Attorney
Dealing with a bicycle accident injury claim often leaves the victim overwhelmed. On the one hand, the victim has to deal with their injuries and, on the other, they face the insurance companies that often undervalue the claim. A qualified attorney assists their clients with professionalism and compassion. The legal professionals –
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the accident
- Gather evidence such as police reports and witness statements
- Interview the witnesses
- Calculate an estimated compensation amount
- Negotiate with an insurance company
- Represent them in court, if necessary
An expert legal team tirelessly works to protect the victims’ legal rights and make the legal process easier, allowing them to devote the time necessary to recover from their bicycle accident injuries.
Quick Actions Can Protect the Victims’ Rights
The Statute of Limitations in Florida for personal injury cases is very strict. Accident victims usually have two years from the date of their accident to file a compensation claim. After the accident, if the victim waits too long, s/he may lose the opportunity to receive compensation for their injuries. The evidence fades with time.
The victim needs to consult with a Winter Park Bicycle Accident Attorney immediately after being injured in a bicycle accident.
What Steps to Take to Strengthen Compensation Claim
After being injured in a crash, a bicyclist must take a few steps immediately to support their accident claim. The victim’s immediate actions help safeguard their personal injury rights.
- Call 911
- Seek Medical Assistance
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene
- Talk to the eyewitnesses and collect testimonies
- Consult a bicycle accident attorney
- Don’t directly communicate with the motorist or insurer without the assistance of an attorney.
Get Trusted Legal Help with Abercrombie, P.A.
You do not have to deal with the consequences of your bicycle accident on your own. At Abercrombie, P.A., our experienced Winter Park Bicycle Accident Lawyer helps you secure the financial compensation you are entitled to.
For the best guidance on your legal issues and to provide you with the personalized support needed throughout your personal injury case, contact us and let the expert legal team advocate for you while you focus on recovering from your injuries.
