Getting outdoors to ride a bike can be a great way to get some exercise, enjoy or leisurely day, or even as an alternative means of commuting to work. However, while cars, trucks, and other motor vehicles have improved their safety standards, bicycles remain just as dangerous for their riders in the event of an accident as ever.
If you or a loved one were injured due to the negligent actions of another while riding your bike, speak with a New Port Richey bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney could help you understand your rights and advocate on your behalf. With a lawyer dedicated to you and your case, you may be more likely to achieve a positive outcome in the matter.
Rules of the Road for Bicyclists
First and foremost, bicyclists are not treated as pedestrians by the law. Under Florida Statutes §316.2065(1), the operator of a bicycle is subject to all the same traffic laws that apply to motor vehicle drivers. The primary rule is that bicyclists must obey all traffic signals.
Other laws that bicyclists are obligated to follow under the law are:
- There is a maximum limit of one person per bicycle
- The bicycle must be equipped with brakes capable of stopping within 25 feet while traveling at a speed of ten miles per hour
- A rider under 16 must wear a helmet
- A bicyclist riding slower than the speed of traffic must either use the bike lane or as close as practicable to the curb
While the rules governing bicyclists are clear, every case is unique and can present different scenarios for which may or may not be applicable. Injured claimants should speak to a seasoned New Port Richey bicycle accident attorney to learn about how the laws could impact their case.
Time Limit to File a Lawsuit
A bicycle accident case is subject to a four-year statute of limitations under Fl. Stat. §95.11(3)(a). If the lawsuit is not brought before this time limit expires, the case may likely be dismissed.
The sooner the plaintiff speaks to a bicycle accident attorney from New Port Richey, the sooner they could get started building a case.
Damages for a Bicycle Accident
The two major types of damages that a bicyclist could pursue in a lawsuit are economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are based upon material costs related directly to the injury itself. For example, if the rider were hospitalized, missed work, and sustained an injury that limited their ability to work in the future, all those expenses would be considered economic damages.
Non-economic damages are injuries such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment and consortium, disfigurement, humiliation, and other physical detriments. These damages are more difficult to quantify and should be discussed one-on-one with the plaintiff’s New Port Richey bicycle accident attorney.
Contact a New Port Richey Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
While we all love the activity, mobility, and exercise a bicycle brings, sharing the road with drivers does not come without risks. If you are injured from an accident, a New Port Richey bicycle accident lawyer may be able to advocate for a more favorable outcome to your situation on your behalf. Call today to schedule a consultation.
