Brooks Law Group works with many Tampa bicycle accident victims, filing lawsuits to help them get the justice and compensation they deserve. Areas like the Riverwalk, Town-N-Country Greenway, the Upper Tampa Bay Trail, and Courtney Campbell Trail are all popular spots for bicyclists in Tampa Bay. Overall, bicyclists consider our city safe. Experts named Tampa a Bicycle Friendly Community in 2016 and it is ranked in the Top 50 Best Cities in the US for cyclists. Even with the many trails, bicycle lanes on main roads, and downtown biking paths though, accidents can and do happen. Victims in these accidents often require representation to get the help they need.
If you have suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, legal action may be a viable option to claim compensation for damages. Negligence from motor vehicles, other cyclists, pedestrians, or poor road conditions and inclement weather can lead to such accidents. Medical expenses, loss of wages, property damage, and pain and suffering are some of the damages that may be included in the compensation sought through lawsuits. However, it’s crucial to note that bicycle accident lawsuits’ specific requirements and details may vary depending on the state, as laws differ across jurisdictions. You must have a lawyer who knows these laws’ nuances and how to best approach them in your case.
However, the causes of bicycle accidents tend to trend the same way across all state lines.
What are some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents?
Bicycle accidents happen for a variety of reasons, including:
Motor vehicle collisions
One of the most common causes of bicycle accidents is collisions with motor vehicles. This can occur due to driver inattention, failure to yield right-of-way, speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, or aggressive driving.
Dooring
Dooring accidents happen when a parked car’s occupant opens the door without checking for approaching vehicles (or cyclists). This often results in a cyclist colliding with the open door or swerving into traffic to avoid it.
Poor road conditions
Hazards on the road, such as potholes, debris, uneven surfaces, or inadequate signage, can cause bicycle accidents. These conditions can lead to loss of control, falls, or collisions with other objects. Often, the law holds local governments, or individuals/businesses who own the property, liable for accidents caused by poor road conditions.
Lack of visibility
Low visibility is a significant problem for bicyclists, especially during nighttime riding or riding in inclement weather. Insufficient lighting on bicycles, lack of reflective gear, or failure to use proper safety equipment like lights and reflectors can make it difficult for motorists to see cyclists, resulting in more frequent collisions.
Aggressive motorists
Aggressive driving, such as tailgating, honking, or passing too closely, can intimidate cyclists and potentially lead to accidents. Similarly, reckless cycling behavior, such as weaving through traffic or disregarding traffic rules, can increase the risk of collisions.
Who’s at fault in a bicycle accident?
Fault determination in an accident depends on the circumstances. If the accident was caused by aggression, dooring, or drunk driving, it’s clear that the other party is responsible. If poor visibility or road conditions play a role, your lawyer must thoroughly examine evidence to construct a strong case.
What should I do if I’m injured in a bicycle accident?
First, call for help and get any needed medical attention right away. Following treatment, you need to call your lawyer. Legal experts walk you through the steps of building your case and will answer your questions, make sure you get important documentation and provide support.
Dealing with insurance companies is often a part of bicycle accident lawsuits as well. Victims may need to file a claim with their own insurance company or negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company. This is another fight your legal team will pick up on your behalf, making sure you get the help you need.
Brooks Law Group has years of experience representing victims of bicycle accidents in the Tampa Bay area. Our free consultations are the perfect time for you to ask questions, learn more about how we fight on your behalf, and meet the members of our legal team. You don’t pay unless we win, so you can feel confident in our services and our dedication to getting the best possible outcome for you. Book your appointment today and see why Tampa bikers always Look to Brooks.
