South Florida is regarded as one of the most hazardous places for cyclists. In Florida, over 120 people are killed in bicycle accidents each year. Florida has twice the average rate of bicycle fatalities, which is 2% in the United States. Seventy-five percent of all serious bicycle accidents occur in urban areas. Most of these incidents happen in broad daylight. The Sunshine State also has the highest number of child bike accidents in the country.
Fort Lauderdale bicycle accident attorneys can help you with your case. When filing a claim, you will need to provide evidence to show that the accident was caused by the other driver or an entity such as the city transportation facility or manufacturer of the vehicle. Here are a few examples of negligence that can lead to a bicycle accident.
Careless Driving
* Distracted driving
* Red light/ stop sign running
* Drivers failing to give cyclists enough space
In general, anyone who has been injured in a bicycle accident can take legal action within four years. The statute of limitations is only two years for wrongful deaths. It is important to realize that you have a much shorter deadline than you might think, particularly when there are government employees or agencies involved. You must act quickly. It is important to note that your actions after the accident will determine whether or not you receive the full compensation.
What Should you do after a bicycle accident?
If you’ve been in a Florida bicycle accident, it is important to consider these tips.
* Always carry emergency information: As a cyclist you should always have your emergency contact details, ID and smartphone with you. This includes your emergency contacts, your ID and your smartphone. Although it’s quite common for people to carry these items, they’re necessary in the event of an accident. Witnesses and health professionals can contact your family in the event that you are unconscious because your ID card is present. Before they can treat you, they will also learn more about your past.
* Call 911: If the incident has left you conscious, call the police. You should also contact an ambulance. If you are unable to call 911, ask someone nearby to assist you. Even if you do not feel seriously hurt, you should still see a doctor. You can use the documentation to prove your injuries in court.
* Do not make any decisions until the police arrive to give an official report. When there is a collision, documentation from the police is vital. The attorney will use it to defend your case.
Document everything: Take pictures and video to capture every detail. Write about your experience to help you remember it all.
Avoid rushing to your bicycle or fixing it: You should avoid moving the bike or getting it repaired until the police arrive at your destination. You should only move the bike if it would be dangerous to leave it on the road. Your lawyer should also approve any repairs to your bike.
Ask for the contact information of any witnesses you need to speak with. You will require their testimony in order to prove your case.
You should not negotiate with the other party, regardless of who is at fault. It is not your responsibility. Your attorney will handle this for you. You will need to find out the name of the driver, the insurance information, and any passenger names. You should be able collect compensation if the driver is insured. You have nothing to worry about.
Avoid speaking with the Insurance Company Without Your Lawyer Present. To avoid making a mistake that could affect the outcome of your case, it is best to speak with your attorney first and make sure that they are there when you talk with the Insurance Company.
Choose a Reputable Fort Lauderdale Accident Lawyer
You should not handle a bicycle accident on your own. You should hire a personal injury attorney to guide you through the process. You only need to schedule a free consultation with us.