Bicycle Accidents at Crosswalks
Bicyclists share the roadways with motor vehicles that are significantly larger and heavier than them. It only takes a few seconds of carelessness for a driver to cause a bicycle accident that results in catastrophic injuries and devastating financial losses.
Bicycle accidents are especially common in Florida, where many ride a bicycle to take advantage of the beautiful weather. A large number of bicycle accidents occur in crosswalks. Individuals in Lakeland, FL, Winter Haven, FL, and surrounding areas who are injured in bicycle accidents in crosswalks can work with lawyers at Moody Law to establish liability and pursue compensation for accident damages.
Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Crosswalks
Drivers have a duty of care to other vehicles and pedestrians on the road, and this includes bicyclists. Unfortunately, some drivers neglect to take the precautions necessary to protect the safety of others. When drivers fail to practice proper care and attention, bicyclists can become the victim of an accident, many of which have catastrophic or fatal consequences.
Crosswalks are designated areas for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross over two or more lanes of traffic. Most crosswalks are clearly marked, and are controlled by a series of traffic lights or signs. Crosswalks are designed to keep drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians safe, but crosswalk accidents are not uncommon. Unsafe driving practices that are often noted as the cause of bicycle accidents in crosswalks include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Driving under the influence
- Failure to use turn signals
- Aggressive driving
Bicycle Accident Damages
Bicycles weigh significantly less than even the smallest motor vehicle, and they do not provide any protective structure to riders. Because of this, bicycle accidents can cause substantial damages for bicyclists.
Personal injuries are extremely common following a bicycle accident. Cyclists may suffer injuries such as:
- Severe contusions and lacerations
- Broken bones
- Concussion
- Head and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
Beyond the injuries of a bicycle accident, our Lakeland clients may suffer economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Cost of ongoing therapy and/or rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Diminished wage earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Bicyclists and the Right of Way: Establishing Liability
If a reckless or careless driver is responsible for a bicycle accident, they should also be held liable for the damages caused by the crash. Florida has clear laws to protect pedestrians and bicyclists. These laws make it easier to establish liability so that accident victims can be compensated for their losses.
Florida law clearly allows bicyclists to utilize sidewalks or crosswalks to ride a bicycle. Furthermore, the law states that any vehicle propelled by human power (including bicycles) has the same rights and duties as a pedestrian when traveling along a sidewalk, roadway, or crosswalk. Under the terms of this law, drivers have a duty to yield the right of way to bicyclists in a crosswalk, just as they would pedestrians.
Contact Us
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, the lawyers at Moody Law can help you hold liable parties accountable for resulting damages. To discuss your case with one of our knowledgeable bicycle accident attorneys, contact our law firm online, or call (863) 284-9090.
