Williston Bicycle Accident Attorney

Injured in a Bike Accident in Williston, FL?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident in Williston, FL, Schackow & Mercadante is here to help. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of bicycle accident cases and are dedicated to securing the award or settlement you deserve. Our Williston bicycle accident lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through the legal process with compassion and expertise.

Call (352) 261-6767 or contact us online today for a free case evaluation with our team.

Florida Bicycle Laws

Florida law recognizes bicycles as vehicles, granting cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. Some key laws include:

• Helmet Requirements: Cyclists under the age of 16 must wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards.
• Lighting Requirements: Bicycles must be equipped with a white front light and a red rear light/reflector when ridden between sunset and sunrise.
• Lane Use: Cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes when available. If no bike lane is present, they should ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
• Right-of-Way: Cyclists have the right-of-way when in a bike lane or crosswalk, and motorists must yield.

Violations of these laws by either party can significantly impact the outcome of a bicycle accident case.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, often involving negligence on the part of motorists. Common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Motorists who are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted may fail to notice cyclists.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who do not yield to cyclists at intersections or when turning can cause serious accidents.
• Dooring: This occurs when a motorist opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, leaving little time to react.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver's ability to react in time to avoid a collision with a cyclist.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have impaired judgment and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.

Who is Liable for a Bicycle Accident?

Determining liability in a bicycle accident can be complex and depends on the specific circumstances of the case. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Motorists: If a driver’s negligence caused the accident, they could be held responsible for the cyclist’s injuries and damages.
• Municipalities: Poorly maintained roads or inadequate signage could make a city or county liable for a bicycle accident.
• Bicycle Manufacturers: If a defect in the bicycle or its components contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held liable.
• Other Cyclists or Pedestrians: In some cases, the negligence of other cyclists or pedestrians may lead to a collision.

Proving liability requires a thorough investigation and the collection of evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photographs. Our attorneys at Schackow & Mercadante have the experience and resources to conduct comprehensive investigations and build a strong case on your behalf.

Compensation for Bicycle Accident Victims

Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Covers hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and future medical care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time off work due to injury and loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of your bicycle and other personal property.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

Ready to Help You Today

At Schackow & Mercadante, we understand the unique challenges faced by bicycle accident victims. Our dedicated team offers:

• Personalized Attention: We treat every case with the individual attention it deserves, ensuring you feel supported throughout the legal process.
• Proven Track Record: With years of experience and numerous successful outcomes, our attorneys have the skills and knowledge to handle even the most complex cases.
• No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf.

If you need a Williston bicycle accident attorney, contact our firm today at (352) 261-6767 for a free consultation.