Floridians and vacationers alike enjoy the Sunshine State in many different ways. One popular activity is biking. Some people ride for leisure, others for exercise, and still others as a mode of transportation. Yet biking comes with many risks, especially in Florida. Out of all the states in the nation, Florida ranks the highest for bicyclist deaths. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 125 pedalcyclist fatalities were reported in Florida during 2017. In 2018, there were 6,568 bicycle crashes in Florida, which resulted in 161 fatalities and 6,175 injuries.
Florida is clearly not a safe place for bicyclists, with many accidents caused by driver negligence. If you were injured in such an accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to the skilled Boca Raton bicycle accident attorneys at Demand the Limits Personal Injury Attorneys.
Causes of Florida Bicycle Accidents
Many factors contribute to bike accidents in Florida. There are many bikers sharing the roads with motorized vehicles. Substantial tourism, inexpensive transportation, and beautiful weather along with bicycle-friendly communities increase the number of bicyclists on the road. Motorists contribute to these accidents with:
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued or drowsy driving
- Drunk driving
- Speeding
- Buzzed or drugged driving
- Road rage and aggressive driving
Sometimes government entities can be liable for bike accidents due to poorly maintained and designed roads. When you hire Boca Raton bicycle accident lawyers, they can investigate what caused your bicycle accident and hold them liable for your damages.
What to Do After a Florida Bicycle Accident
The first thing you should do after a bicycle accident with a motor vehicle is to call 911 to report it to the authorities. If you don’t go to the emergency room from the accident scene, don’t skip seeking medical treatment for your injuries. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s best to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Sometimes adrenaline from the accident can mask pain or other symptoms. Some conditions may not reveal themselves with signs until later.
To recover compensation from the negligent driver who caused your accident, you must have documentation of your injuries and damages. Be sure to save copies of all bills, invoices, and receipts related to your accident and injuries. It’s also advantageous to keep a journal to document your pain and suffering. Include information about your:
- Daily pain level
- Trouble or inability to perform tasks
- Changes in your personal relationships and life as a result of your injuries
You Can Rely on Our Boca Raton Bicycle Accident Lawyers
At Demand the Limits Personal Injury Attorneys, we’ve seen the devastating results of bicycle accidents firsthand. If you or a loved one was involved in one, our mission is to seek justice on your behalf. Just because these accidents happen frequently doesn’t mean they are acceptable. Call today to schedule your free consultation at 561-600-3555 or contact us online. During this consultation, you can ask questions and receive legal advice regarding a bicycle accident claim. Our Boca Raton bicycle accident attorneys will present your options, and you can choose the next steps.
