There are numerous deadly repercussions of riding a bicycle in Florida. Many consider South Florida one of the most dangerous locations for cyclists. For instance, more than 120 die annually from bicycle accidents in Florida. While the national average for bike deaths in the US is two percent, Florida has four percent. Many bicycle accidents happen in broad daylight, and urban areas account for 75 percent of severe ones. Similarly, Florida has the highest child bicycle injuries in the United States. Unfortunately, the number keeps increasing.
If you are involved in a bicycle accident and want to file a claim for damages, you need potent evidence. That is why working with a local bicycle accident lawyer, like Mitchell Feldman of Feldman Legal Group, is advisable. Negligent fellows cause bicycle accidents through careless driving, red light or stop sign driving, lack of space for cyclists, and distracted driving.
Statute of Limitations in Florida
As per the statute of limitations in Florida, bike accident victims often have up to four years to institute a claim against any guilty party. However, if it is an issue of wrongful death, you have only two years to file your claim. If a government agency or employee is somewhat involved, you must act hurriedly as the deadline is tighter than you may imagine. What you do immediately after the mishap determines your compensation.
What Steps Should You Take After a Bicycle Accident?
The following steps may help you after being involved in a bicycle crash in Florida:
Have Emergency Information
Ideal and proactive cyclists always carry emergency information with them. The information includes your ID, smartphone, and contact details. These items are essential in case you are involved in a crash. Your ID and contact details help witnesses and healthcare professionals contact your relatives and loved ones if the accident makes you unconscious. Also, the details will give them insight into your background before rendering any help to you.
Call 911
Contact law enforcement and an ambulance if you are conscious after the accident. You can plead with a witness to help you call 911 if you cannot do it. Even if your injuries are not evident, see a healthcare professional because some injuries appear after a while. Similarly, you need documentation to prove your case in court.
Wait for the Arrival of the Police
Police documentation is essential after a collision. Your lawyer needs a police report to build a solid argument. Hence, do not hurriedly leave the accident scene.
Ensure Proper Documentation
Ensure you adequately capture the entire scene through videos and pictures. The recordings should capture every bit of the collision scene, as they will be helpful to your attorney. Further, write down everything that transpires as soon as possible to avoid forgetfulness.
Do Not Rush to Fix Your Bicycle
Do not move your bike or fix it until the police arrive. However, consider moving it to the roadside if its location portends danger to other road users. Also, do not attempt to repair your bicycle until your attorney gives you the go-ahead. Doing anything contrary will amount to destroying evidence.
Gather Eyewitnesses’ Contact Details
While it is essential to get witness testimony to make your case more potent, it is also essential to have their contact details. Your lawyer may need to speak with them at some point.
Avoid Untimely Negotiations
Never succumb to the temptation of negotiating with the other party, no matter who is guilty, because it is not your responsibility. Allow your lawyer to handle it professionally. All that concerns you is establishing the motorist's identity, insurer, and witnesses. Do not stress yourself about anything; compensation should be available once the at-fault driver is insured.
Do Not Speak with Insurers without a Lawyer’s Input
The rule of thumb is that you should not speak with the guilty party's insurance provider in any circumstance in your lawyer's absence. Such a stance will help you avoid wrong actions or utterances that can impede your success. After a collision, speak with your attorney immediately. Allow your lawyer to liaise with the other party’s insurance firm. If you must talk, ensure your lawyer is present to avoid unguarded or self-indicting utterances.
Conclusion
One thing evident in this piece is that every bicycle accident victim needs a lawyer to institute a claim against the at-fault party. Hence, you must carefully choose a result-driven, local bicycle accident attorney. Hiring a suitable personal injury lawyer will bolster your chances of a positive outcome. Schedule a consultation to learn how a law firm can help you with your case before settling for them.
