Brandon Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Protecting Injured Cyclists Across Brandon, FL

Did you know that Florida is the deadliest state for cyclists? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 1/7 of all accident-related bicyclist deaths in 2017 happened in our state. Cyclists are exposed, so any crash involving another vehicle will likely lead to serious, if not fatal, injuries.

We know that losing a loved one or recovering from a severe collision can be physically, financially, and emotionally devastating. That is why the compassionate, skilled Brandon bicycle accident attorneys at The Florida Law Group will guide you through every step of the claims process and advocate for your best interest so you can focus on healing.

Call (833) 899-0310 today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.

Florida Bicycle Laws

In Florida, bicycles are legally considered vehicles, and cyclists have many of the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Understanding these laws is critical for both cyclists and motorists to ensure safety and determine fault in the event of a crash.

Key Florida bicycle laws include:

• Right to the Road: Bicyclists have the legal right to use most roadways (excluding expressways and interstates).
• Lane Positioning: Cyclists must ride as far to the right as practicable, except when making a left turn or avoiding hazards.
• Bike Lanes: Where available, cyclists are required to use designated bike lanes.
• Helmet Laws: Riders under 16 must wear helmets that meet federal safety standards.
• Lighting Requirements: Bicycles used between sunset and sunrise must have a front white light and a rear red reflector or light.

When a driver violates a traffic law or fails to yield to a bicyclist, it may constitute negligence under Florida law. If you've been injured due to a driver’s failure to follow these rules, contact The Florida Law Group to speak with a knowledgeable Brandon bicycle accident attorney today.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents are often caused by driver inattention, impatience, or failure to share the road safely. Some of the most common causes of bicycle collisions in Brandon include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or using in-car entertainment systems can lead to drivers failing to see cyclists.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers may not yield the right-of-way at intersections, crosswalks, or bike lanes.
• Turning Accidents: "Right hook" accidents happen when a car turns right in front of a cyclist going straight. "Left cross" collisions occur when a vehicle turns left across a cyclist’s path.
• Dooring: When a parked car’s door is suddenly opened in front of an oncoming cyclist.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of a crash.
• Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers pose a significant threat to everyone on the road, including bicyclists.

If your accident was caused by any of these behaviors, our legal team can gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case for you.

Recovering Compensation After a Bicycle Accident

Florida law allows injured bicyclists to seek compensation for their losses when another party is at fault. These damages can include:

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
• Property damage (bike repair or replacement)

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or disfigurement

Wrongful Death

If a loved one died in a bicycle accident, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim, including funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.

At The Florida Law Group, our Brandon bicycle accident attorneys will aggressively pursue the maximum compensation available under the law. We handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing parties so you can focus on healing.

Bicycle Accident FAQs

Do I need an attorney for a bicycle accident claim?

While you can file a claim on your own, having an experienced attorney significantly improves your chances of receiving full compensation. Insurance companies often undervalue bicycle injury claims or try to shift the blame onto the cyclist.

What if I was partially at fault?

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Florida?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Florida is two years from the date of the accident (as of 2023). Failing to file within this time may prevent you from recovering compensation.

What should I do after a bicycle accident?

• Call 911 and report the accident.
• Get medical attention immediately—even if injuries seem minor.
• Collect contact info from the driver and any witnesses.
• Take photos of the scene, your bike, and your injuries.
• Contact a Brandon bicycle accident attorney at The Florida Law Group as soon as possible.

How We Can Help

If you were hit by a car while riding your bicycle in or near Brandon, your life could potentially be forever changed. You may sustain significant injuries that require hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, imaging tests, and more – all of which can costs hundreds of thousands of dollars. The sad truth is that you may sustain injuries that will never fully mend. You have no control over your injuries, but you do have control over the quality of your future!

Get in touch with a reputable local attorney who will help you stand up to stingy insurance companies, hold the negligent driver responsible, and fight for the maximum financial compensation you need to heal. All of our experienced lawyers at The Florida Law Group are committed to recovering damages for our clients, and our firm has won numerous awards for our legal work. Trust our specialized Brandon bicycle accident attorneys to win your case!

Schedule a free consultation today by reaching out to our team at (833) 899-0310.