Traffic accidents are dangerous enough even when everyone involved benefits from the safety and protection of a passenger car. But when cars, trucks or other motor vehicles strike a bicycle, the results can be devastating. In many different cities nearby, bicyclists enjoy riding in the rural areas with the hills and lakes. Unfortunately, distracted or impatient drivers fail to recognize the rights of bicyclists and as a result, collisions with cyclists are increasing. If you or a loved one was injured in a cycling collision, a Mount Dora bicycle accident lawyer could offer the guidance and legal assistance you need. Our skilled injury attorneys could explain cycling laws, investigate the drivers’ actions, and maximize the impact of your case.
How Common are Bicycle Accidents and Cycling Injuries?
Bicycle injury statistics tend to fluctuate from year to year, but the numbers we see published do not paint the whole picture. According to research into hospital records, possibly as few as 10 percent of bicycle accidents are recorded by the authorities.
But even the numbers we have portray a sobering picture. In a recent calendar year, National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration statistics show:
- 677 bicyclist fatalities
- 38,000 bicyclist injuries
Bicycle Laws and Helmet Regulations Explained
Not every injury leads to a personal injury settlement or case. As our reputable attorneys can explain during your free initial consultation, any successful injury claim requires proof that negligence occurred. In many cases, that negligence stems from violation or ignorance of certain traffic laws. These laws are sometimes ignored by either the motorist or the cyclist.
For example, according to Section 316.2065, F.S.:
- Cyclists must obey all traffic signals and controls.
- Bicycles must have brakes that allow stopping within 25 feet when traveling at 10 miles per hour on a dry, level, clean road.
- Bicycles can only carry the number of people they are designed to carry.
- Cyclists must signal turns and use the bike lane or right-most position of the road in most situations.
- Cyclists may not wear headsets, headphones or other listening devices while riding.
Motorists also need to know the law. They must give cyclists who are lawfully using the roadways the same rights and considerations as they do other motorists, or they risk legal liability should an accident result. When a driver fails to treat bicyclists with the respect they deserve, a tenacious lawyer in Mount Dora could pinpoint the source of the accident and hold the defendant accountable for their recklessness.
Reach Out to a Mount Dora Bicycle Accident Attorney for the Guidance you Need
Bicycle accidents can lead to serious injuries and long, expensive recoveries. They might leave you with growing hospital bills, emotional trauma, or a long list of required legal actions. Therefore, if you or a family member has been hurt in a cycling wreck, a Mount Dora bicycle accident lawyer should take over the details of your case. Call today to learn more about how they could help. Se habla español.
