Naples Bicycle Accidents: Protecting Your Safety And Your Rights This Spring
As spring arrives in Collier County, more cyclists take to the roads to enjoy the longer days and warmer weather. Whether biking along Gulf Shore Boulevard, through local parks or commuting on city streets, be aware of potential risks.
Bicycle accidents in Naples can result in devastating injuries, and reckless drivers are often to blame. Our Naples bicycle accident lawyer explains how to protect your safety this spring, what to do if you are injured, and your rights to compensation.
Reckless Driving Increases Naples Bicycle Accident Risks
Florida has one of the highest rates of bicycle accidents in the country. An average of 150 bicycle accidents in Collier County happen each year according to reports from Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Unfortunately, these crashes can leave victims with potentially life-threatening injuries.
Reckless driving increases the risks. Common types of dangerous driving behaviors that cause Naples bike accidents include:
- Distracted driving, including texting, talking on cell phones, and eating behind the wheel;
- Failure to yield, especially at intersections or crosswalks;
- Unsafe passing, with drivers failing to leave at least three feet of space for cyclists, as required under the Florida Statutes;
- Speeding and aggressive driving, which increases the severity of crashes;
- Drunk or impaired driving, a frequent cause of fatal bicycle accidents.
When cycling this spring, take precautions to reduce your risks. Wear a helmet, light colors, and the appropriate footwear. Ride in the direction of traffic, cross only at designated intersections, and never assume a driver sees you or will stop.
Protecting Your Rights: What To Do If A Naples Bicycle Accident Happens
Bicycle accidents in Naples can cause devastating harm. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries, such as concussions or internal trauma, take days for symptoms to appear. To protect yourself and your legal rights in a claim, follow these steps if involved in any type of collision:
- Call 911 to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance;
- Get contact information from the driver, any witnesses, and responding officers;
- Gather evidence, including photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries;
- Get medical attention, even if you do not have visible injuries;
- Avoid speaking to insurance companies until you consult with a lawyer.
Florida law allows bicycle accident victims to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, but insurance companies tend to minimize or deny claims. Our experienced Naples bicycle accident lawyer protects your rights. We negotiate on your behalf and fight to get the maximum amount you deserve.
Injured in a Crash? Contact Our Naples Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
Springtime cycling should be safe and enjoyable, but negligent drivers put bicyclists at risk. If you or a loved one gets hurt in a Naples bicycle accident, Cardinal Law, P.A. is here to help.
We provide the trusted, professional legal help needed to hold those at-fault accountable and fight to get you the maximum compensation. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Naples bicycle accident lawyer.
Sources:
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.083.html
