Wesley Chapel Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Generally speaking, bicyclists are permitted to use sidewalks in the state of Florida. However, bicyclists who opt to use a sidewalk will be held to the same standard of care as a pedestrian.
Bicyclists must ensure to adhere to all the traffic signals and must use crosswalks where required. Even the most experienced of bicyclists can be involved in an accident, it is important to always be aware of one’s surroundings and exercise caution. That being said, a bicyclist can be as careful as possible and still get into an accident due to the negligence of others.
A Wesley Chapel bicycle accident lawyer can help you hold the negligent and responsible parties accountable. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Wesley Chapel or the surrounding areas, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case.
Biking at Night
Many factors can contribute to nighttime bicycle-related accidents. Motorists are wearied after a long day’s work and less attentive. Visibility is low. There are other motorists on the roads using headlights. Bicyclists who choose to ride at night should exercise caution when navigating the streets and sidewalks.
- Ensure all parts of the bicycle are tightly fastened
- Use proper safety equipment
- Wear reflective clothes
- Make use of a front and rear light
- Install reflectors on the wheels of the bicycle
- Avoid dark or poorly lit areas
- Obey all traffic signals
- Refrain from making erratic movements – drive predictably
- Avoid using headphones or keep music on a very low volume
- Carry any items in a backpack or bag that is strapped to the bicycle
- Tie shoelaces and tuck them into shoes
- Plan the route and be aware of potential detours
Recovering for Damages Suffered
If a cyclist is involved in a bicycle related incident, a Wesley Chapel bicycle accident lawyer can help them recover for damages suffered. If the bicycle itself is damaged in the accident, the individual may be able to recover for damages to their personal property.
If the individual is physically injured in the incident, they can recover for things like medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages if the injury resulted in the bicyclist being unable to work. In cases that involve serious, permanent injuries, the bicyclist may be able to recover for future losses. For instance, an individual who may never be able to walk again as a result of a bicycle-related accident may be able to recover for future losses for loss of quality of life.
Damages need to be proven and properly documented which can be accomplished by keeping all medical bills incurred as a result of the injury. The injured bicyclist should also keep track of any other expenses incurred as a result of injuries sustained because they too may be worthy of recovery.
Talk to a Wesley Chapel Bicycle Accident Attorney
Bicycle related accidents can be devastating. Unlike motorists, bicyclists do not enjoy the luxury of having a sheet of steel separating them from the open world. It is critical that a bicyclist make use of the proper safety gear when navigating the roads. The difference between wearing a helmet and not wearing a helmet can be a matter of life and death.
If you have been in a bicycle accident, do not hesitate to call a Wesley Chapel bicycle accident lawyer who can review your case and determine how to properly recover for losses.