Florida Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Representing Injured Bicyclists Throughout the State

Bicycling has become a popular mode of transportation throughout the United States, and with great weather year-round, Florida is one of the best states for bicyclists. Sadly, there is a long way to go before it can say its roads are truly bicycle-friendly.

At the heart of this issue is the fact that drivers seldom share the road as they should. In 2018 alone, more than 850 bicyclists were killed in motor vehicle crashes, according to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Michles & Booth is committed to fighting for safer streets to reduce these tragic statistics. At our firm, we have advocated for the victims of negligence for more than 80 years combined. If you have been injured in an accident that was no fault of your own, our bicycle accident attorneys will fight to protect your rights and recover the compensation to which you are rightfully entitled. When it comes to your recovery, don’t settle for less.

To get started with a free consultation, contact Michles & Booth online today. Our bicycle accident attorneys are committed to serving injured individuals throughout Florida.

Do I Have a Bicycle Accident Case?

When you are injured in any type of accident, including a bicycle accident, due to the negligent actions of another party, the law grants you the option to recover compensation for any damages incurred, such as medical bills, physical/occupational therapy, mental anguish, pain and suffering, lost wages, and missed time from work/school, among others. You will have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that negligence did occur to be able to obtain compensation.

Some examples of driver negligence that could lead to a bicycle accident include:

• Distracted driving
• Reckless driving
• Driving while under the influence
• Driving while drowsy/fatigued
• Passing cyclists illegally
• Failing to yield the right of way to cyclists
• Failing to share the road with a lawful cyclist
• Changing lanes or turning without checking for cyclists

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

At Michles & Booth, we have fought on behalf of clients injured in a range of bicycle accidents. A few of the injuries for which we have helped clients recover damages include but are not limited to:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Broken or fractured bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Partial or full limb loss
• Abrasions (e.g. road rash)

Florida Bicycle Laws

Per law, bicycles are vehicles, and therefore, cyclists have the same rights as motorists. They must also follow all the same traffic laws and rules of the road, such as stopping at red lights, signaling when turning, and yielding the right of way to pedestrians. In addition, cyclists must adhere to the following laws:

• They cannot carry more bicyclists than they have seats for;
• They must ensure that their bicycle is well maintained;
• They must use proper bike lights, if riding at night; and
• They must use the bike lane when one is present, unless they are traveling at the same speed as the other vehicles on the road.

Does the Bicyclist Always Have the Right of Way?

In most cases, bicyclists have the right of way, but there are some instances in which the right of way belongs to motorists (such as if a bicyclist ventures outside of the bike lane unsafely, runs a stop sign, etc.). Usually, bicycle accident cases are very concerned with the issue of who had the right of way at the time of the crash.

Can Partially Liable Bicyclists Recover Compensation?

Florida is a comparative negligence state. This means that partially liable plaintiffs can still sue the party who was majorly at fault for the accident, but any compensation will be reduced accordingly. Thus, while bicyclists may be partially liable for an accident if they failed to yield when they were supposed to or committed another act of negligence, they may still qualify to file a claim. Consult a lawyer to find out if you still have a case.

Michles & Booth Is Here for You

At Michles & Booth, our innovative approach to legal representation is tailored to suit each of our client’s unique needs. A full-time investigator and medical doctor are key members of our award-winning legal team, which allows our firm to accept cases at a minimal cost to our clients. Our track record of success, accolades, and years of experience speak for themselves. Put highly skilled, seasoned attorneys on your side.

Call Michles & Booth at 850-438-4848 today. Our Florida bicycle accident lawyers in Pensacola, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, and Tampa have the skills to fight for you.