Naples Bicycle Accidents: Take Precautions To Reduce Your Risks

Riding a bike is an inexpensive form of transportation, good for your health, and generally a lot of fun, but bicycle accidents in Collier County pose risks, particularly in the aftermath of recent storms. Being involved in this type of crash can cause catastrophic injuries.

Our Naples bicycle accident lawyer provides experienced, local legal help to victims and their loved ones in the aftermath. While dangerous road conditions can be a contributing cause, these crashes generally happen due to reckless drivers. Find out precautions you can take to reduce the risks.

Reckless Driving Increases Risks Of Bike Accidents In Naples

Residents of Collier County are still dealing with damages due to three major storms during the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. The most recent was Milton, a CAT3 hurricane that made landfall in Siesta Key, just 2 hours north of Naples. It impacted residents along the Gulf Coast and across Central Florida.

Widespread evacuations before the hurricane caused a run on gasoline, resulting in fuel shortages. According to an October 14, 2024 CBS News report, nearly half of all service stations in Naples and surrounding areas remain closed and it could take some time to replenish to pre-storm levels.

Biking has always been a popular hobby, particularly along local beaches and among students and fitness buffs. However, since the storm, others are ditching the long lines at local gas stations in favor of traveling on two wheels.

Whether you ride as a hobby, to get around town, or as part of your commute, be aware of the potential risks. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, nearly 150 bicycle accidents in Collier County happen annually, and reckless drivers are often responsible. Dangerous behavior on their part that puts you at risk includes:

• Speeding;
• Failing to stop at red lights;
• Failing to yield at crosswalks;
• Tailgating;
• Distracted driving;
• Driving under the influence.

Biking In Naples? How To Protect Yourself On The Road

Whether you are an avid cyclist or just recently began biking to deal with storm impacts, be aware of how Naples bike accidents happen.

The Collier County Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan calls for increasing bike lanes, installing more traffic signals, and other steps to reduce the risks. Take these precautions to protect yourself:

• Keep your bicycle well-maintained;
• Wear an approved safety helmet;
• Wear light, bright colors to increase visibility;
• If you bike at night, install headlights and reflectors;
• Follow traffic signs and signals;
• Never automatically assume a driver sees you or will yield;
• Be particularly cautious in the aftermath of storms, as damage and debris are common problems on local roads.

To Make The Maximum Recovery, Contact Our Naples Bicycle Accident Lawyer

At-fault drivers can be held liable when bike accidents in Naples cause you or a loved one harm. Cardinal Law, P.A. provides the highly skilled and experienced legal help you need to make the maximum recovery in a claim. To schedule a consultation, contact our Naples bicycle accident lawyer today.

Sources:

cbsnews.com/news/florida-gas-supply-gasbuddy-milton/

flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2020.pdf

colliermpo.org/wp-content/uploads/V12-Chap-2.pdf