Thanks to bike lanes, improved laws, and a better awareness of traffic regulations, drivers are sharing the road with bicyclists in Clermont and throughout most of Florida. Unfortunately, accidents still happen. When cars and bikes collide, the bicycle usually gets the worst of it, but cyclists still have to obey the rules of the road.
If you were involved in an auto vs. bicycle accident, you may wonder who is more liable, and the answers may surprise you. In any vehicle accident, both sides must act reasonably and according to the law. At Largey Law Firm, our talented bicycle accident attorneys help our clients get the insurance settlement they deserve after an accident, whether they had two wheels or four.
What Are the Traffic Laws for Bicycles?
It surprises people to learn that bicycles must follow the same traffic laws as any other vehicle, with a few exceptions. Bicycles in Clermont must travel in the same direction as traffic, in the right lane, and must use a bike lane if it is available. If not, bicycles must stay to the right, unless they are turning left.
Some bicycle-specific laws include:
- Bikes must have brakes that let the cyclist stop within 25 feet when traveling at 10 mph on a dry road
- Bikes cannot use the sidewalk unless it is marked for bicycle use. That includes children on bicycles
- Cyclists must use hand signals to turn and stop
Bike riders cannot wear headphones or other listening devices while riding. It’s also not a good idea, since you won’t be able to hear anyone behind you until it’s too late.
Traffic Laws for Motorists Sharing the Road
Bicycles on Clermont roads are considered vehicles and share the same rights as other motorists. Drivers must yield the right of way to cyclists as they would to any vehicle. Under Florida law, motorists must provide a three-foot buffer when no marked bike lane is present.
When sharing the road with cyclists, motorists must also:
- Check their blind spots before making any turns
- Pass safely and only when there is room to do so
- Obey the marked speed limit and clearly signal turns and stops
Although bicycles are vehicles under the law, they are also smaller and give their riders much less protection. Motorists should exercise patience when sharing the road with cyclists.
Legal Advice for Sharing the Road With Bicyclists in Clermont
Florida is a no-fault state, which means drivers must first submit accident claims to their own insurance companies. In most cases, an automobile policy will cover injuries sustained in a bicycle accident as it would in an auto accident. While opposing counsel cannot argue that the absence of a helmet constitutes negligence, other violations of traffic laws may be used as evidence.
If your insurance will not cover all your damages, you may need to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party for the rest of your medical bills or lost wages. In that case, you need legal representation that can help show you understood the traffic laws about sharing the road with bicyclists in Clermont. That means you need advice from the Largey Law Firm.
Whether you are the cyclist or the motorist, we will help you file your insurance claim and ensure you have the evidence you need to get the settlement you deserve after your accident. Contact us today for your free and confidential consultation.
