Pensacola Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Pensacola, FL

For cyclists, the fear of being hit by a vehicle is particularly daunting. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents occur daily across the U.S., with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicating that these incidents account for over two percent of all traffic-related fatalities. In Florida, fatal collisions involving bicycles are particularly prevalent. When a cyclist is involved in an accident through no fault of their own, accountability is key. At Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner, PA, our bicycle accident lawyers are dedicated to investigating your case and helping you file a claim for damages. We are committed to representing injured cyclists in their quest for justice. We are experienced trial lawyers ready to pursue your case in court is your settlement offer is a less than adequate offer

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in Pensacola, navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. Understanding your rights and knowing what steps to take next are crucial for your recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially. Our experienced legal professionals specialize in representing injured cyclists, advocating for fair compensation, and holding negligent parties accountable. Whether you were struck by a vehicle, suffered injuries due to hazardous road conditions, or experienced a collision involving another cyclist, we are here to provide guidance and support every step of the way.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

As with most traffic incidents, bicycle accidents can be avoided and typically arise from the negligence of one or both parties. While cyclists can sometimes be at fault, including unsafe maneuvers like weaving through traffic or neglecting stop signs, motorists are frequently liable for the harm caused to cyclists. Primary causes of bicycle accidents include:

• Failure to scan when turning right. A common scenario occurs when a driver makes a right turn while a cyclist is proceeding straight through an intersection, unnoticed and subsequently struck.
• Neglecting to yield when turning left. Another frequent cause is when a motorist fails to yield to a cyclist going straight while making a left turn, often because cyclists are less visible due to their size.
• Dooring collisions. These incidents happen when a cyclist is riding alongside parked vehicles and a door unexpectedly swings open, potentially striking them or forcing the cyclist into traffic.
• Negligent behavior. Any time a driver behaves irresponsibly near a bicyclist, the potential for an accident increases. Common negligent actions include speeding, distracted or impaired driving, aggressive tailgating, illegally merging, and failing to yield.

Injuries from Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can lead to serious and sometimes fatal injuries. Even non-fatal injuries may be severe enough to keep a cyclist from returning to their normal life or riding again. As experienced personal injury attorneys we have handled 1000’s of injury claims involving cars, truck, motorcycles, pedestrian and bicycle victims injured at the negligent hands of others. Typical injuries include:

• Road rash/road burn. Cyclists who fall due to a collision frequently suffer painful road rash injuries that can be disfiguring, depending on their severity and location.
• Fractures. Bone fractures are common, especially collarbone and wrist injuries that typically occur when cyclists instinctively extend their arms to break their fall. Other fractures, including spinal injuries, are also possible.
• Head and brain injuries. The brain is vulnerable, and if a cyclist’s head strikes a solid surface during an accident, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) may occur, particularly if they aren’t wearing a helmet.
• Spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord damage can lead to life-changing consequences, including partial or total paralysis. These injuries are permanent and cannot be reversed.

Additional injuries may encompass internal trauma, soft tissue injuries, external wounds (such as cuts and bruises), and psychological trauma. Physical and mental injuries can significantly affect one’s ability to work, care for themselves, and more. A seriously injured cyclist may face both economic and non-economic losses.

Steps to Take Following a Bicycle Accident in Florida

Call 911

The top priority after a bicycle accident or any traffic incident is ensuring everyone’s safety. Therefore, the first action should be calling 911 to request medical assistance for everyone involved. Remember, Doctor, Lawyer Second.

Gather Information at the Scene

While the police will compile an official report, it’s also wise to gather your own information. Share contact and insurance details with others involved and take numerous photos of the scene and your injuries. Additionally, check for any nearby traffic cameras that may have recorded footage.

Be Careful What You Say About the Accident

When speaking with others at the scene, stay polite but avoid apologizing or admitting fault. In Florida, acknowledging any fault can reduce your compensation for injuries. Keep comments to a minimum and let experts determine responsibility.  After an accident, emotions often run high, and it can be tempting to apologize or accept blame in an attempt to smooth things over. However, it’s crucial to refrain from making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault, as this may impact your ability to recover compensation later on. Respond to questions factually, but do not speculate or offer opinions regarding what caused the accident. This is also true when speaking to an insurance underwriter. Let the PI attorneys at Whibbs Stone handle any direct correspondences with adjusters or insurance personnel.

See a Doctor as Soon as Possible

Although first responders will check you at the scene, some injuries may go unnoticed until later when adrenaline subsides. Thus, obtaining a thorough medical evaluation soon after the accident is crucial for diagnosing and treating injuries swiftly.

Call the Police

It’s important to have the police present at any accident scene, even for minor injuries. They will help manage the situation, keep traffic clear, and generate an official accident report.

Your Rights if Hit by a Car

You are entitled to full compensation for injuries you sustain when a motorist hits you. If you’ve been injured, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance or directly sue the driver. This allows you to seek full compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other losses. You also have the right to competent legal representation throughout this process.

Bicycle Accident Statute of Limitations

The state of Florida mandates that if you are going to file a civil action for recovery after an accident based on negligence, you file the suit within four years from the date of the cause of action. If you fail to act within this statute of limitations, you will be barred from recovery indefinitely.

How Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers Can Help

Riding a bike can feel like a risk every time you take to the road, and indeed, many accidents are reported annually. However, our lawyers are ready to help you seek the compensation you need if you experience a crash. When you contact Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner, P.A., our Florida injury attorneys will immediately begin working on your case. We are skilled in investigating bicycle accidents to establish fault and negligence, as well as negotiating effectively with insurance adjusters to secure maximum settlements. Research shows that by hiring an experienced and skilled personal injury attorney, injured victims can receive 3 to 4 times the amount of compensation for their injuries than going it alone. There are no fees or costs associated with any injury case unless financial compensation is recovered for the victim.

For further details on how we can best assist you, reach out for a free consultation. Make Your First Call, Your Best Call. Give one of our injury attorneys a call us at 1-850-500-1111 or visit our office in person today!