Accidents involving bicycles can result in catastrophic injuries for the victims. Many who survive these tragic accidents will need years of special medical attention like skin grafts, regular scans, and physical therapy. Of course, bicycle accidents can be prevented with the help of responsible drivers and riders. But there are times when city roads are simply too narrow for riders. Absent bike lanes, summer long construction zones, and traffic congestion further complicate bicyclists’ mode of transportation and ultimately put them at risk. So, what’s a city to do?
DEVELOPING SAFER OPTIONS FOR BICYCLISTS
Last year, Tampa completed phase 1 of what they are calling the “Green Spine” project. The idea of Green Spine is to create a separate cycle track which would allow bicyclists to have protective spaces to use for transportation and subsequently cut down on Tampa traffic. The project is expected to cost the city nearly $3.5 million upon completion and will span the city from east to west, covering just over three miles.
Cities elsewhere, like New York City and Chicago, have also taken serious strides in recent years to combat the lack of safe cycling opportunities. Miami, among the most dangerous cities for bicyclists in the nation, may want to follow suit with a plan of their own to see that their riders are protected from injuries and their drivers are protected from lawsuits and other serious consequences. Between medical bills and lost working hours, the ensuing losses for bicyclists injured in an accident can be devastating.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE BEEN IN A BICYCLE ACCIDENT?
If you have been in a bicycle accident, you should first make sure you have moved to a safe area if possible, then:
- Contact 911 to report injuries and reach out to authorities
- Make sure you seek medical attention as necessary and inform the doctor of areas of pain or concern
- Collect contact and insurance information from involved drivers
- Also obtain contact info from potential witnesses in the area
- Contact the necessary insurance companies to report the incident
Also understand that providing as many details as possible to police officers and physicians will help you establish the evidence necessary for recovering damages.
Then, as soon as you are able, contact an attorney to discuss your options prior to settling with an insurer. A bicycle accident lawyer will have an idea for what your claim is worth and will help you recover what you need.
Am I Covered by My Car Insurance Company for Bicycle Injuries?
Ideally, your auto insurance company will cover you if you are the victim of a bicycle accident. Note also that Florida is a no-fault state, which means you must first make a claim with your own insurer prior to seeking recovery from an at-fault driver or via lawsuit.
HOW CAN A LAWYER HELP ME AFTER A BICYCLE ACCIDENT?
An experienced lawyer knows how to thoroughly investigate the details surrounding your accident. Not only that, but personal injury attorneys are experienced in handling insurance companies and pursuing the most possible compensation for their clients.
It’s not uncommon for accident injury victims to have losses that go well beyond medical expenses. At the same time, it’s the insurer’s goal to see that victims receive the bare minimum in financial recovery. Lawyers know the scope of injury-related losses and the areas of life your injury will affect – they know how the insurance game works and how to fight on your behalf.
Damages other than medical expenses can include lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in cases of serious injury or wrongful death, victims’ loved ones may pursue financial compensation for missed milestones. Many injury attorneys will also represent you in court if that is what it takes to see you recover personal injury damages.
START YOUR CASE BY CALLING Aigen Injury Law – FREE CONSULTATIONS
While Miami is a little behind on the bike safety front, riders are not without options in the event of an accident. At Aigen Injury Law, we represent personal injury clients in a wide range of accident cases. Whether a car, a rideshare driver, or a truck was involved, attorney Scott Aigen, Esq., has the experience and resources necessary to diligently represent you in and out of the courtroom.
Aigen Injury Law serves clients throughout South Florida. We also provide free consultations for prospective personal injury clients and our legal fees are on a contingency basis – meaning you don’t pay unless we recover your compensation. Contact our office to learn more about what Aigen Injury Law can do for you.