In 2018, the total number of bicycle accidents with injuries reported in Florida was 6,183. Five years later, in 2023, the number of reported bicycle accidents statewide grew to 8,394.
This growth of nearly 26% has been met with concern statewide, as many wonder what is driving the unexpected increase in the number of bicycle injuries and fatalities reported across the state.
Our Florida personal injury lawyer is here to explain why the number of bicycle accidents reported across Florida is significantly increasing.
Contributing Factors to the Increase
Bicycle accidents in Florida have been on the rise, with a significant increase over the past five years. Several factors contribute to this alarming trend. These include:
- Population Growth: Florida’s population has steadily increased over the years, leading to more vehicles on the road and greater congestion. With more cars, trucks, and bicycles sharing the road, the likelihood of accidents rises accordingly.
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving has become a pervasive issue statewide. Drivers often engage in activities such as browsing social media, texting, or using GPS while behind the wheel, diverting their attention from the road and increasing the risk of collisions with cyclists.
- Lack of Bicycle Infrastructure: Despite efforts to improve bicycle infrastructure, many parts of Florida still lack dedicated bike lanes, paths, and safe crossing points. Cyclists are often forced to share the road with fast-moving vehicles, exposing them to greater danger.
- Inadequate Enforcement of Traffic Laws: Enforcement of traffic laws, particularly those related to yielding to cyclists and maintaining safe passing distances, may be lacking in some areas. Without strict enforcement, drivers may disregard the rights of cyclists, leading to more accidents.
- Cycling Popularity and Tourism: Florida’s warm climate and scenic routes make it a popular destination for cyclists, both residents and tourists alike. The increasing popularity of cycling means more riders on the road, which can contribute to higher accident rates, especially in areas with heavy tourist traffic.
To address this issue effectively, authorities must prioritize cyclist safety through improved infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and stricter traffic law enforcement.
Cyclists must also take proactive measures such as wearing helmets, using lights at night, obeying traffic signals, and staying vigilant while riding. When bicyclists are harmed in accidents due to the negligence of others, a bicycle accident attorney in Florida can help them recover compensation to alleviate the costs of medical expenses and more.
Common Injuries to Bicyclists
Bicyclists involved in auto accidents are extremely vulnerable. As a result, they are likely to suffer serious injuries that require extensive medical care. Common injuries include:
- Head Injuries: Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, are common among cyclists involved in accidents, often resulting from impacts with vehicles or the ground.
- Fractures: Cyclists frequently suffer fractures to the arms, legs, wrists, and collarbones due to the force of impact during accidents.
- Road Rash: Road rash occurs when a cyclist’s skin scrapes against the road surface during a fall, resulting in abrasions, lacerations, and sometimes deep wounds.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and contusions, affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons and cause significant pain and discomfort.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis or loss of sensation and motor function below the site of the injury, leading to long-term disability and impairment.
- Facial Injuries: Facial injuries, including cuts, bruises, fractures, and dental trauma, commonly occur when cyclists make direct contact with the ground or objects during accidents.
- Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as internal bleeding, organ damage, and punctured lungs, may occur due to blunt force trauma sustained in bicycle accidents.
- Nerve Damage: Nerve damage can result from compression, stretching, or laceration of nerves during accidents, leading to numbness, weakness, or loss of function in affected areas.
After a bicycle accident, injured parties can seek help from a Florida personal injury lawyer to sue the responsible party.
Legal Rights of Cyclists After Collisions
Cyclists have legal rights under Florida law, and those injured in accidents caused by the negligence or recklessness of others may be entitled to compensation. These rights include the right to:
- Seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
- Hold negligent drivers accountable through civil lawsuits for personal injury or wrongful death.
- Assert their right to use the road and demand respect from motorists, including the right to occupy an entire lane when necessary for safety.
However, going through the legal process can be extremely confusing, especially for cyclists unfamiliar with the legal system. Working with an experienced bicycle accident attorney in Florida can help injured cyclists protect their rights and pursue fair compensation.
Call Our Florida Personal Injury Lawyer Today
At Zimmet & Zimmet, we are dedicated to advocating for our clients and helping them navigate through this difficult time. With our complimentary consultation and no fee, unless we win policy, there is no risk in contacting us for assistance. Get started today by calling our bicycle accident attorney in Florida so that we can begin protecting your rights.
