The rate of road accidents in Florida is higher than in any other state, and unfortunately, bicycle riders are badly affected. Bicyclists are being killed and injured in Florida at an alarming rate. This is why Florida has been branded “the killing field for cyclists.” The worst aspect is that cyclists usually encounter more injuries when an automobile collides with a cyclist regardless of who is at fault.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Experienced personal injury attorneys have typically handled numerous injury cases, and have become an authority in the field of injuries caused by accidents, including bicycle accidents. Nationwide, 840 cyclists were killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2016 alone. That was the most since 1991, and was a nearly 35 percent jump from 2010. What makes it even more worrisome is that there is no sign that the trend will reverse anytime soon. In fact, the rate of accidents is on the rise.
Unfortunately, kids below the age of 15 are not spared from these awful statistics. These young bicyclists account for 9% of bicyclist fatalities in motor vehicle crashes. The most common causes in Florida when cyclists are knocked down are due to the following:
- Elderly drivers with weak sight and not-so-sharp reflexes;
- Dense population in Florida causing busy roads;
- Cases of DUI; and
- Texting while driving.
Why You Need To Involve A Personal Injury Attorney
These crashes often result in paralysis, disfigurement, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken limbs, road rash, and even death. These accidents can render victims incapacitated for months, years, or for the remainder of their lives. Add the medical bills which typically involve thousands of dollars to the equation, and you will understand how serious the issue is.
People who are significantly injured often can no longer work. This affects the victim and their entire family. If a reckless driver confines you to a wheelchair for the rest of your life, how much compensation do you think you should get from him or his insurance company? This is exactly why you should involve a personal injury lawyer.
He or she will assess the situation, calculate all your losses and fight to get you the justice you deserve. Unfortunately, insurance companies try to avoid paying just compensation when they can. They often attempt to dodge paying a victim or shortchange them. They could use your words against you, and they could portray you to be the cause of the accident. This is why it is not advisable to talk to an insurance company before you consult with your own attorney. Let your attorney communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. This is why it is crucial to have a personal injury lawyer when you or any of your loved ones becomes a victim of an accident.