According to the NHSTA, in many of the cases, the bicyclist is not the person at fault. In 2011, the NHTSA reported that of 677 deaths and 48,000 in bicycle-related accidents in most cases, the motor vehicle operators were to blame.
Bicycle accidents happen due to the following reasons most commonly:
In many instances, drivers park and open their doors into a rider lawfully using the road or bike lane. Usually, this is because they do so without looking in their rearview mirrors. Another not-uncommon incident is the infamous “Florida Stop.” This takes place when a car slows but does not stop at a stop sign.
Other cases include drivers making sharp turns into the path of an oncoming bike obscured by the sun. Some drivers brush or sideswipe riders off the road. In some instances, these cars run into another vehicle or person on foot.
There are also cases where drivers are DUI or driving while under the influence of drugs. People in these conditions can often drive impulsively – pulling out backward and forwards, from driveways and alleys too fast, without looking both directions and putting bicyclists and others in danger.
If you’ve been hurt or injured while riding your bike as a result of someone else’s negligence, call 888-888-5666 to speak with a Florida bicycle accident lawyer at Madalon Law. Call now for a free consultation.
Most people are not aware of how the law works, the rights they have and the amount of compensation they can be entitled to after they have been injured in an accident that was the result of another party’s negligence. The obstacles and confusion that follow an accident and an injury can seem overwhelming.