The Chaos of a Bicycle Accident

A bicycle accident can leave you shaken, injured, and unsure of what to do next. Whether you’re hit by a car on a busy Miami street or a quiet Orlando suburb, your actions immediately after the crash are crucial. At Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys, we help Florida cyclists protect their rights and seek the compensation they deserve.

Prioritize Safety and Call for Help

First, move to a safe spot if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident, as Florida law requires reporting crashes with injuries or damages over $500 (Florida Statutes § 316.065). Even if you feel okay, see a doctor within 14 days to access Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, which cover 80% of medical costs up to $10,000 (Florida Statutes § 627.736). The NHTSA reports that 20% of bicycle accident injuries, like concussions, may not show symptoms right away.

Document the Scene

If it’s safe, take photos of your bike, the vehicle, your injuries, and the crash site, including road signs or traffic signals. Collect the driver’s contact and insurance details, as well as witness information. In 2021, Florida saw 8,413 bicycle crashes, with 83% involving motor vehicles (FLHSMV). This evidence can prove driver negligence, such as distracted driving, which caused 76% of serious bicycle injuries that year.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

Don’t admit fault or discuss the accident with the driver’s insurance company without legal advice. Insurers often try to minimize payouts, and a single statement can harm your claim. Also, don’t delay medical care, as it’s required for PIP benefits and strengthens your case. The average medical cost for a bicycle accident is $12,000, per NHTSA, making prompt action critical.

Why Act Quickly?

Bicycle accidents involve complex factors, like driver error or road conditions. Evidence like skid marks or surveillance footage can disappear fast. An attorney can investigate, gather police reports, and interview witnesses to build a strong case. In 2023, Florida reported 228 fatal bicycle crashes, underscoring the stakes (FLHSMV).

Kaiser Romanello’s Commitment

At Kaiser Romanello, our Florida-based team specializes in bicycle accident cases. We fight for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, with no fees unless you win. Let us handle the legal stress so you can focus on recovery.

Don’t let a bicycle accident derail your life. Contact Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys for a free case review at 844-877-6679. Act now to protect your future. Visit our bicycle accident page to learn more on how we can support you.