Bicycle Accident? Here Is What You Need To Know To Pursue Compensation

There are over 51 million cyclists across the 50 US states. But of all the places, Florida is arguably the most dangerous state for cyclists. To put this into perspective, the cyclist accident fatality rate is 2 percent nationally. But in the Sunshine State, it is double the national average. 

Therefore, as cyclists criss-crossing the warm roads of the Sunshine State, you must be aware of what an accident means for you and what measures you should take afterward. Read on below for more information. 

Understanding Florida Cyclist Accidents

Every year, more than 120 people die in bicycle accidents in Florida, a staggering figure. Unsurprisingly, most of these accidents happen in urban areas and in broad daylight.  Additionally, driver negligence is the number one cause of bicycle accidents. Behaviors known to cause these types of crashes include:

• Careless driving 
• Distracted driving 
• Red light/ stop sign running 
• Failure to yield on the part of the driver

As a victim of a Florida bicycle accident, the statute of limitations allows you up to four years to seek compensation from the at-fault party. However, if the accident resulted in wrongful death, the window of compensation is narrow for the victim’s family. How narrow? They have two years from the date of the incident to file a suit. The window becomes even narrower if the accident involves government agencies.

Next Steps After the Crash

As a cyclist, here is what you should do in the event of an accident:
Always Carry Emergency Information With You

While most people carry their emergency contacts with them at all times, their importance becomes apparent when you are knocked unconscious in a bicycle accident. Witnesses and emergency response will use this information to contact your emergency contact. 

Call 911

If you are conscious after the accident, you should first call 911. If you are not in a position to do so, request anyone close to you to help you out. Granted, you may feel fine after the incident, but even then, you should still see your doctor for a comprehensive check-up. 

Tell the Police Everything

Once the police arrive, be sure to narrate the events that led to the crash. This will give them ample information to include in the official report, which will be useful when seeking compensation. 

Gather Evidence

If you are in a position to do so, gather evidence of the crash scene. Capture pictures and videos of the vehicle, your bicycle damage, and any visible injuries you may have sustained. If there are any witnesses present, get their contact details as well. Wait until law enforcement arrives before moving your bicycle.

Avoid Negotiating With the Other Party

Negotiating liability with the other party is not your responsibility. In fact, it may do more harm than good. Just get their contact details as this is all that you need at the moment. 

Do Not Negotiate With Insurance Companies Without a Lawyer

“When pursuing compensation from the at fault party’s insurance company, you must understand that you are not part of their team. They will be looking for vulnerabilities to undermine your claim. Even one wrong statement can sell you out, “ says personal injury attorney Christopher Largey of Largey Law. 

Consult a qualified personal injury attorney. They will be your partner in the path to compensation, advising you on the best course of action to get maximum compensation.