Here in Jacksonville and around the state of Florida, many cyclists enjoy riding their bikes, and for a number of reasons. They’re economical, they provide exercise, and they’re a great way to experience the sights and sounds of our beautiful state. Unfortunately, when cyclists are involved in accidents with other motorists, they are often critically injured as a result. Please continue reading and contact a Jacksonville personal injury lawyer from Ansbacher Law to learn more about the most common causes of bicycle accidents and how our legal team can help if you’ve been injured in one. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What causes bicycle accidents?
Bicycle accidents happen for several reasons, including poor road conditions, inclement weather conditions, negligent signage, and more, however, they are most commonly a result of driver negligence. Some of the most frequent types of driver negligence that we see lead to bicycle accidents are as follows:
- Opening car doors into passing cyclists
- Tailing cyclists too closely
- Motorists driving in bike lanes
- Trying to overtake cyclists by crossing double-yellow lines
- Driving while intoxicated
- Driving while fatigued
- Texting while driving
- Failure to yield the right of way
What should I do if I was hurt as a cyclist in an accident?
If you’re injured in a bicycle accident as a cyclist, the most important thing is to seek immediate medical treatment. You can do so by calling emergency services to the scene of the accident. You should also work to document the incident, such as by taking pictures, videos, and gathering witness contact information. It’s a great idea to wear a GoPro while cycling as well, as having this camera on your person will likely record the direct cause of your accident. Finally, once your injuries are treated and you’ve obtained copies of all medical documentation/bills associated with your injury, you should hire a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can file an injury claim on your behalf.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Florida?
In the state of Florida, accident victims are generally granted four years from the date of their injury to take legal action against the party responsible. This timeframe is known as the statute of limitations. If you wait past the statute of limitations to sue, you’ll likely permanently lose your right to do so. Give us a call today or contact us online so we can get working on your case.
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Ansbacher Law is composed of knowledgeable attorneys who are ready to assist clients with various legal matters throughout North Florida. Please contact our office for an initial consultation today.
