Tarpon Springs Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Were you injured in a bicycle accident in Tarpon Springs? Bicycles are a popular form of transportation, exercise, and recreation. However, cyclists often face risks on the road due to negligent motorists. You deserve to pursue compensation for injuries and losses from a bike accident caused by a negligent driver.

If you suffered injuries in a bicycle accident involving a motorist, turn to Zervos & Calta, PLLC for help seeking compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact our firm today for a free initial claim evaluation with our Tarpon Springs bicycle accident lawyers.

How Common Are Bicycle Accidents in the Tarpon Springs Area?

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were approximately 550 bicycle accidents in Pinellas County in one recent year – resulting in 16 bicyclist fatalities and injuries to more than 500 bicycle riders. Unfortunately, the rate of injuries and fatalities due to bicycle crashes is increasing.

What Causes Most Bicycle Accidents?

Many bicycle accidents occur because drivers fail to share the road safely with cyclists.

Some of the most frequent causes of bicycle accidents include:

• Speeding
• Tailgating
• Passing a bicycle too closely
• Reckless driving
• Aggressive driving and road rage
• Turning or changing lanes without checking mirrors or signaling
• Disregarding traffic signs and signals
• Failing to yield the right-of-way
• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Drowsy driving
• Driver inexperience
• Backing up without looking
• Opening doors on street-parked cars without checking for oncoming cyclists

What Are the Most Frequent Injuries in a Bicycle Accident?

Because bicyclists have little protection in collisions with motor vehicles, cyclists tend to suffer severe injuries in these accidents.

The most common injuries in bicycle accidents include:

• Lacerations
• Abrasions and road rash
• Degloving injuries
• Burns
• Dislocated joints
• Strains, sprains, or tears
• Broken bones
• Nerve damage
• Whiplash
• Herniated spinal discs
• Crush injuries
• Internal organ injuries and internal bleeding
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Facial injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Amputation and limb loss

Are There Steps I Can Take to Reduce My Chances of Being in an Accident?

Although motorists should exercise caution when driving around bicycles, cyclists can take steps to help reduce their risk of getting into accidents.

You should do the following to keep yourself safe:

• Wear clothing that makes you more visible to drivers, including bright clothes with reflective strips.
• Install reflectors, a front white light, and a red rear light on your bicycle or helmet.
• Always keep both hands on the handlebars unless signaling a turn.
• Ride a bike that fits your height.
• Keep your bike in good condition, especially the tires and brakes.
• Plan your route, ideally on roads with less traffic, slower speeds, and dedicated bike lanes.
• Ride in the same direction as vehicular traffic.
• Obey all street signs and traffic signals.
• Ride defensively, which means assuming other drivers don’t see you.
• Avoid using a cell phone or listening to headphones while riding.

What Should I Do If I Am in a Tarpon Springs Bicycle Accident?

After a bicycle accident in Tarpon Springs, you can take steps to protect yourself and your legal rights, including:

• Report the accident to law enforcement.
• Obtain copies of any police accident reports.
• Seek prompt medical attention to check for injuries you suffered in the crash.
• Request copies of medical records from your treatment.
• Notify your auto insurance provider if you have a policy.
• Gather any bills, invoices, or receipts for expenses from the accident.
• Gather your pay stubs and income statements if you miss work or suffer a reduction in your earnings.
• Contact a Tarpon Springs bicycle accident lawyer from Zervos & Calta, PLLC to start your compensation claims.

How Can Fault Be Proven in a Bicycle Accident?

Drivers who hit cyclists often deny fault for bicycle accidents. You may need substantial evidence to prove the driver’s liability for your injuries.

Some examples of evidence attorneys use to prove fault for a bike crash include:

• Police accident reports
• Accident scene photos and videos
• Surveillance and traffic camera footage
• Dashcam and helmet cam footage
• Eyewitness statements
• Cell phone records
• Vehicle event data recorder logs
• Accident reconstruction expert reports

Can I Receive Compensation for My Injuries?

A bicycle accident claim can compensate you for financial expenses and personal losses you suffer due to the accident.

You could be compensated for the following losses:

• Medical treatment and physical rehabilitation expenses
• Long-term care expenses if you need support for permanent disabilities
• Lost wages or income
• Lost future earning capacity and employment benefits if you develop a permanent impairment
• Physical pain and emotional distress
• Lost quality of life caused by disabilities or disfigurement and scarring

What Happens If I Am Partially to Blame for the Bicycle Accident?

If you share some blame for the bicycle accident that caused your injuries, you may still have the right to pursue compensation against the driver who hit you. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule when determining liability and compensation.

Under this rule, a plaintiff may seek compensation for their injuries if their share of fault for the accident is not more than 50 percent. However, a judge or jury can reduce a plaintiff’s compensation in proportion to their percentage of fault for the accident. For example, if a person suffers $50,000 in losses from a bicycle accident and bears 10 percent responsibility, the court may reduce their compensation by $5,000 to reflect their share of fault for the accident.

Does Florida Have a Statute of Limitations for Filing an Injury Claim for My Accident?

Under Florida’s statute of limitations, you usually have only two years to file a bicycle accident lawsuit against the driver who hit you. If you wait until the deadline passes, you risk losing the opportunity to seek accountability and compensation in civil court. Speaking with a Tarpon Springs bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible is crucial to protecting your right to compensation.

Contact a Tarpon Springs Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you suffered catastrophic injuries in a Tarpon Springs bike accident, get legal help to maximize your compensation. Contact Zervos & Calta, PLLC today for a free no-obligation consultation with an experienced Tarpon Springs bicycle accident lawyer.

Visit Our Tarpon Springs Bicycle Accident Law Offices

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