With its year-round warm temperatures and breathtaking ocean views, Florida is home to an increasing number of bicyclists. For some, it is a means of transportation or a way to stay active. For others, it is a lifestyle. No matter which one of these categories applies to you, if you are a cyclist, you know the unparalleled joy of riding on the open road.
You may also be well aware of the dangers that motor vehicles pose to bike riders and how easy it is to get seriously hurt if you are in a collision. A DeLand bicycle accident lawyer at Colling Gilbert Wright has the experience to help you recover financial compensation from the negligent driver if you suffered harm in a crash. Contact our skilled personal injury attorneys at The Florida Firm today for a free consultation.
What Are Your Rights as a Cyclist?
In most states, a bicycle is considered a vehicle on the road, and anyone riding a bike has all the same rights and responsibilities applicable to drivers. This means that you must follow all traffic rules as if you were in a car, including using your hand to make turn signals and stopping at red lights. Riding a bike while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also illegal.
Additionally, you must ride in the same direction as the flow of traffic and in a designated bike lane or as close to the right-hand side as reasonably possible if there is no such lane. There are special rules that apply only to bikes that you should know. Specifically, you may ride side by side with another bike, but no more than two, and you may not grab onto any vehicle while riding.
Since your bike must follow the same traffic laws as a vehicle on Florida roads, many of the same rights apply if you are in a collision with another vehicle in DeLand, and our attorneys could help you understand your legal options. You may be able to recover financial compensation for your medical bills, lost time at work, and pain and suffering.
Common Causes of Bicycle Crashes
Although both cyclists and motorists must share the road, many drivers see bikes as a nuisance and may ignore their rights. Combined with bikes being smaller and more difficult to see from inside a vehicle, crashes are more common than you may expect.
Many of these collisions occur because drivers are simply not paying attention to their surroundings and failing to see a biker before making a turn or opening their doors while parked on the street. Cars must also allow enough space when overtaking a bike, and passing too close could force the rider to veer off the road or risk getting hit.
Unfortunately, riders are at a significant disadvantage because their bikes do not have a protective frame or seat belts to prevent them from being thrown off. As such, there is a very high risk that you could be seriously hurt in a collision, including traumatic head injuries, broken bones, and damage to your back and spine.
If you have been hit by a car in DeLand while out cycling, it is vital to first seek medical attention and then contact our lawyers for guidance. Our team could help determine the cause of the crash and work toward getting you the compensation you deserve to heal and move forward with your life.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney in DeLand for Help With Your Case
Cycling is a great way to enjoy the sun and warmth of the southern climate, but it also has a high risk of injury against a larger motor vehicle. If you suffered injuries in such a crash, speak with a DeLand bicycle accident lawyer at Colling Gilbert Wright about your legal options.
Our firm has a proven record of success, and we get many new clients from other law firms and former client referrals. Call today to schedule a free case evaluation with a member of our team.