Hawthorne Bike Accident Attorneys

Serving Bicycle Accident Victims in Hawthorne, FL

Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation and recreation in Hawthorne, Florida. However, with the increase in bicycle traffic comes a heightened risk of accidents. If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, the experienced attorneys at Schackow & Mercadante are here to help. As your trusted Hawthorne bicycle accident attorney, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at (352) 261-6767 to schedule a free case review.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Unfortunately, bicycle accidents are often the result of negligence. Some frequent causes include:

• Driver Negligence: Many bicycle accidents occur because of distracted or careless drivers who fail to see cyclists or do not respect their right to share the road.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris can create hazardous conditions for cyclists.
• Dooring Accidents: These happen when a parked car's door is opened into the path of an oncoming cyclist, causing a collision.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections, leading to serious accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speed by motorists reduces their reaction time, making it difficult to avoid a collision with a cyclist.

Florida Bicycle Laws

Florida has specific laws designed to protect cyclists and ensure their safety on the road. Key laws include:

• Bicycle Equipment Requirements: Bicycles must be equipped with a white front light and a red rear light/reflector if ridden between sunset and sunrise.
• Helmet Laws: Cyclists under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet.
• Bike Lane Usage: Cyclists must use bike lanes when available but are also allowed to ride on the road and have the same rights and duties as motorists.
• Passing Distance: Motorists must maintain a minimum of three feet distance when overtaking a cyclist.

Liability for a Bicycle Accident in FL

Determining liability in a bicycle accident is crucial for pursuing a personal injury claim. Several parties can be held liable, including:

• Negligent Drivers: If a motorist's careless or reckless behavior caused the accident, they could be held liable for the cyclist's injuries.
• Government Entities: If poor road maintenance or hazardous conditions contributed to the accident, the local government might be held responsible.
• Bicycle Manufacturers: In cases where a defect in the bicycle caused the accident, the manufacturer could be liable for damages.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, taking the following steps can protect your rights and strengthen your case:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Report the Accident: File a police report to document the incident officially.
3. Collect Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle. Gather contact information from witnesses.
4. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. It's best to consult with an attorney before making any statements.
5. Contact Schackow & Mercadante: Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.

Why Choose Schackow & Mercadante

At Schackow & Mercadante, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bicycle accident can take on you and your family. Our team is committed to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation. We have a proven track record of successfully handling bicycle accident cases and securing favorable outcomes for our clients.

Our services include:

• Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident to build a strong case.
• Aggressive Representation: We negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, take your case to court to ensure you receive your entitled award or settlement.
• No Upfront Fees: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay unless we win your case.

Call (352) 261-6767 or fill out our online contact form today to learn more about our team.