Boca Raton Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycling around Florida is one of the most scenic, beautiful ways to get exercise and take in the enjoyable weather. Communities throughout the state pride themselves on being bike-friendly. Florida has a large number of bicyclists who depend on this form of transportation. 

Even if these cyclists are safe and follow the necessary bike laws and safety regulations, accidents happen, and they can have serious repercussions. Bicyclists are vulnerable to drivers on the roads. With minimal protection, injuries can be substantial. 

If you’ve been in an accident with motorists on Florida’s roadways, it is important to protect your rights as a pedestrian. An attorney from Dyson Law, PLLC can help you seek necessary compensation for your injuries, lost wages, bicycle damages, and more. If you’re struggling to recover from your crash, reach out to a Boca Raton bicycle accident lawyer.

Bicycle Accident Claims in Boca Raton

Your first step after a bicycle accident is to file an insurance claim with the responsible party’s auto insurance company. The bicyclist’s own auto insurance policy may also help provide coverage for some of the injuries sustained.

Florida is a no-fault state with regard to accident claims. That means your insurance company should cover your losses regardless of who’s at fault. You are expected to use your own auto insurance policy for medical coverage. If your injuries are more severe than your insurance covers, or if insurance coverage isn’t an option, you’ll need to file a lawsuit. 

Once the claim is opened, it is brought to the attention of an adjuster. They work for the auto insurance company and represent their best interests. This means they want to settle the claim for as little as possible. Keep this in mind and have your Boca Raton accident attorney negotiate for the settlement you’re due, not just what they’re willing to pay.

Florida’s Bicycling Laws 

As a bicyclist riding in Boca Raton, you need to be aware of Florida laws. Here is a quick overview of the bicycling laws that currently stand within the state to keep bicyclists safe:

  • Bikes on the roads are treated as vehicles
  • Cyclists have to use a fixed seat for riding
  • Bikes have to be equipped with a light when operating between sunset and sunrise
  • You cannot carry passengers on a bike that is meant to carry only one person
  • Bicyclists must use designated bike paths when they are available and travel at the same speed as other traffic in the area
  • Anyone operating a bicycle must obey all traffic signals and controls
  • If riding on a sidewalk, bicyclists have the same rights and duties as a pedestrian on the sidewalk would
  • The bike must be equipped with a braking system
  • Parents of minors riding bicycles must teach and not allow violations of any of Florida’s bike laws

Florida’s bicycle traffic laws help protect you on the road, but even the best bicyclist can fall victim to a careless driver. Luckily, proving with a lawyer’s help that you were obeying all these laws can help secure the compensation you’re due. 

Compensation for Damages in a Bicycle Accident 

Any bicyclist injured in an accident can request compensation for the damages sustained. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering that arose from the accident. 

There is also a statute of limitations for personal injury claims. The claim has to be filed four years from the date of the injury. If you don’t file in time, your claim may be dismissed, leaving you without compensation for your injuries. 

If the claim is against the state, city, or county then a 180-day investigatory period is necessary along with a three-year statute of limitations. This limit is reduced to two years if the claim is for wrongful death.

What To Do After a Boca Raton Bicycle Accident

When you’re hurt in a Boca Raton bike accident, you need compensation for your damages, or the costs, losses, and suffering you experienced because of the accident. These damages cover both the economic, or financial, part of your damages, as well as your mental and emotional pain and suffering. 

To receive compensation for damages, there is a process you should adhere to after being in an accident. Protect your rights and build a strong case when you follow these steps:

  • Call the police, who will write up a report of the accident documenting fault
  • Collect insurance and contact information of the motorist and any witnesses
  • Take pictures of the scene, injuries, damages, and weather conditions
  • Seek medical assistance as soon as you can for injuries
  • Keep any documentation that is provided to you, such as medical treatments or police reports

Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Boca Raton

Contacting a Boca Raton bicycle accident lawyer that is experienced in bicycle accidents and licensed in the state is important. You should contact them as soon as possible after the accident. They can help you handle the entire case, including representing you in the courtroom. 

If you’ve been in a bicycle accident in Florida, have an experienced law office on your side. Give the professionals at Dyson Law, PLLC a call for a free consultation. They can offer more insight into your options and rights. When you’re ready, call 561-498-9979 or fill out the following online contact form.

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