Bicycle Safety in North Florida: A Deep Dive into Accident Data

Bicycle riding in North Florida is a beloved activity, offering scenic routes and opportunities for exercise. However, sharing the road with motor vehicles can sometimes lead to accidents, resulting in serious injuries to cyclists. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in North Florida, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, call experienced personal injury attorneys at Barnes Cohen & Sullivan.

Understanding Bicycle Accident Laws in North Florida:

In North Florida, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists when sharing the road. Florida law requires drivers to maintain a safe distance when passing cyclists and to yield the right-of-way when necessary. Unfortunately, not all drivers adhere to these laws, leading to collisions with cyclists. As stated by the Florida Highway Safety Motor Vehicle Department (FLHSMV), 8,396 bicycle crashes occurred in the state of Florida in 2023. Of the 8,396 crashes, 225 were fatal. The FLHSMV also found eighteen (18) people on average are in a bicycle crash every day. Per capita, Florida leads the nation in bicycle accident deaths.

Common causes of bicycle accidents: Bicycle accidents in North Florida can occur due to several factors including:
  1. Distracted Driving: Driver’s texting, talking on the phone, surfing the internet, etc. may not see a cyclist until it’s too late.
  2. Failure to Yield: Drivers failing to yield to cyclists at intersections or turns can cause collisions.
  3. Aggressive Driving: Driving too close to cyclists or honking excessively.
  4. Speeding or traveling too fast for certain conditions.
  5. Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
  6. Driving Under the Influence
After being involved in a bicycle accident, it’s essential to take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
  1. Seek medical attention promptly even if you don’t think your injuries are severe.
  2. Document the scene. If possible, gather evidence at the scene of the accident.
  3. Obtain witness information if applicable.
  4. Report the Accident with local law enforcement and obtain a copy of the police report.
  5. Consult with an attorney who specializes in personal injury law.

Bicycle accidents can result in devastating injuries, but cyclists in North Florida & South Georgia have legal rights and options for seeking compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you pursue a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance company or, if necessary, file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified personal injury attorney for assistance. Call Barnes Cohen & Sullivan for a free consultation at (904) 396-5181 or contact us through our website.