Florida Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Injured in a Bike Accident Caused by a Negligent Motorist in FL?

Our team at Burnetti, P.A. understands that bicyclists have the same rights on the road as cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles, and fight for the legal rights of bicyclists injured by negligence. If a bicyclist suffers a head injury, spinal cord injury, broken bones, or other serious injuries in an accident caused by the negligence of another driver, they may be able to file a personal injury claim with a Florida bicycle accident attorney.

If you have been injured in a Florida bicycle accident and believe you may have a claim, fill out the free case evaluation form or call (888) 444-8508.

Causes Of Bike Accidents

There are many factors that may contribute to a bicycle accident, including:

• Reckless driving
• Driving under the influence
• Careless driving
• Texting while driving
• Distracted drivers
• Changing the radio
• Running a red light or stop sign
• Speeding
• Failure to obey a traffic control device
• Improperly switching lanes
• Making an illegal turn

Florida Bicycle Laws

Riding with Traffic

Always ride with traffic, not against it. Riding against traffic makes crashes 2–4 times more likely. Drivers don’t expect cyclists coming from the wrong direction at intersections or driveways.

Night Riding

Bicycles must have front and rear lights after sunset:

• White light visible from 500 feet in front
• Red light and reflector visible from 600 feet behind

Most fatal bike crashes in Florida happen at night, so lights are critical.

Position on the Road

Ride on the right side if moving slower than traffic, unless:

• Passing another vehicle
• Turning left
• Avoiding hazards
• The lane is too narrow to share safely
• Stay predictable—don’t swerve suddenly

Sometimes moving left helps drivers judge safe passing space.

Sidewalks & Crosswalks

Cyclists on sidewalks/crosswalks have the same rights and duties as pedestrians. Local cities/counties may regulate sidewalk riding or require bike registration.

Penalties

Bicycle law violations can lead to civil fines. No driver’s license points are given for bicycle violations.

Equipment Rules

Bikes must have brakes that can stop within 25 feet at 10 mph. Carry only as many passengers as the bike is designed for (child seats/trailers are allowed).

Helmets

Riders and passengers under 16 must wear a helmet that:

• Fits properly
• Is securely fastened
• Meets federal safety standards (Consumer Product Safety Commission)

Helmets significantly reduce head and facial injuries.

Headset Not To Be Worn

A cyclist may not wear a headset, headphone, or listening device, other than a hearing aid, while riding. Loud headphones can damage hearing and shut out the outside world. However, no cyclist should depend on hearing before turning or changing lane position.

Overtaking And Passing A Vehicle

The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other non-motorized vehicle must pass the bicycle or another non-motorized vehicle at a safe distance of not less than three feet between the vehicle and the bicycle or other non-motorized vehicles.

Common Types of Bicycle Accident Injuries

Because bicycles offer little protection in a crash, cyclists often sustain catastrophic injuries. Common injuries include:

• Head and brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal injuries conditions
• Road rash
• Soft tissue injuries

These injuries often require extensive medical care, long recovery times, and can have lifelong effects on victims and their families.

Compensation from a Bike Accident Claim

If you were injured due to a negligent driver, a successful personal injury claim can help you recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses – hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages – including future lost earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from working
• Pain and suffering – physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
• Property damage – repair or replacement of your bicycle and gear
• Wrongful death damages – if the accident tragically results in the loss of a loved one

At Burnetti, P.A., our goal is to maximize your recovery so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal process.

FAQs About Bicycle Accident Claims in FL

What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Florida?

After a bicycle accident in Florida, the first priority is to ensure safety. Move to a safe location if possible, and call 911 to report the incident, especially if there are injuries. Seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t feel seriously injured, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bike. Gather contact information from witnesses and the driver involved, if applicable. Document everything for your insurance claim or potential legal action. Filing a police report is crucial for creating an official record of the accident.

Can I file a personal injury claim for a bicycle accident in Florida?

Yes, you can file a personal injury claim if you are injured in a bicycle accident in Florida. Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning that you typically need to first file a claim with your own insurance company for medical bills, even if the accident was caused by another party. However, if your injuries are severe and meet specific thresholds set by Florida law, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party for additional damages, including pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical expenses.

How does Florida’s no-fault insurance law affect bicycle accident claims?

Florida’s no-fault insurance system applies primarily to motor vehicle accidents, and it requires drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. However, bicyclists who are injured in an accident involving a motor vehicle may need to file a claim with their own PIP insurance if they have it, regardless of who caused the accident. If you don’t have PIP coverage, you may need to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance or pursue a personal injury lawsuit, depending on the severity of your injuries. Florida law allows for a personal injury claim if your injuries are serious and meet the legal thresholds.

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Florida?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a bicycle accident is generally four years from the date of the accident. This means you must file a lawsuit within four years if you want to pursue compensation for your injuries. However, there are exceptions that could shorten this period, especially if you are filing a claim against a government entity. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident to ensure that you don’t miss any deadlines that could affect your claim.

What if the driver who caused the bicycle accident doesn’t have insurance?

If the driver who caused your bicycle accident in Florida doesn’t have insurance, you may still have options for recovery. If you have uninsured motorist coverage as part of your own car insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company. Alternatively, if you don’t have such coverage, you may be able to pursue a claim directly against the driver if they have assets, or file a claim with your health insurance to cover medical expenses. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand your legal options in such cases.

Do I need an attorney for my bicycle accident claim in Florida?

While it’s not mandatory to hire an attorney for a bicycle accident claim in Florida, it is often advisable, especially if the accident resulted in significant injuries or if liability is disputed. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of Florida’s insurance laws, deal with insurance companies, and maximize your compensation. If your injuries are severe, or if you are pursuing a claim against an at-fault driver, having an attorney ensures that your rights are protected and that you don’t inadvertently settle for less than you are entitled to.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Cyclists should not have to pay the price for careless or reckless drivers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, let Burnetti, P.A. fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Our team investigates clients’ bike injury claims to determine liability by analyzing evidence, including:

• Photos
• Road conditions
• Construction site data
• Property damage
• Police reports

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle-bicycle accident, a negligent driver may be liable for paying for damages.

If you believe you have a claim for your bicycle accident injuries, contact us at (888) 444-8508to schedule a free case review.