Bicycle Accidents and What You Should Do After One Happens

Bicycling can be a fun, enjoyable way to get around. For many people, it’s how they run errands and get to and from work. But bicycling comes with risks, including crashes involving pedestrians, other bicyclists, and vehicles. Bicycle accidents may cause severe, life-changing injuries. 

How Often Do Florida Bike Accidents Occur? 

From the start of the year to November 23, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles states there were 7,331 bicycle accidents in the state, killing 192 people. They could’ve been caused by: 

• A taxi, Uber, passenger car, or commercial truck 
• A vehicle going into a bike lane or one that ignored a stop sign or red light 
• A speeding driver or one distracted by their smartphone 
• Someone on an e-bike traveling too fast without regard for others 
• Construction equipment backing into traffic 

Many things can go wrong when you’re on a bicycle. Although you feel great freedom while on a bike, besides a helmet and your skills, there’s not much protecting you. 

What Should I Do After a Bike Accident? 

If you’re injured but can still function, you should: 

• Not panic or become overly emotional. You need to think straight.  
• Try to determine if you’re injured, and if so, how severely. If you can’t safely reach home, call the police and ask for an ambulance. Call a friend or family member to help you. 
• You may not feel your injuries for a time, so even if your bike still works, you may not want to ride it due to the risk of losing your balance or passing out, causing further injuries.  
• If the vehicle driver stops, ask for their driver’s license and proof of insurance, and take photos of them with your smartphone. If you have your driver’s license with you offer to show it to the driver.  
• Even if you’re angry, don’t give the driver a hard time. Stay calm and collected. If the driver appears to be out of control, call the police and do your best to calm the situation.  
• If witnesses are nearby, ask what they saw, ask if you can record them, do so if you can, and get their names and contact information. 
• Take photos or a video of the area. This will give us an idea of the road and traffic conditions. We may also see security cameras in the area, and we may be able to find a video of the accident. 
• If you don’t need an ambulance, get medical attention as soon as possible. A physician may find an injury you can’t feel. Getting injuries diagnosed quickly after an accident will not only help your recovery but can also help your legal claims. 

You should also call our office after your accident so we can discuss the situation and possible compensation for your injuries. 

Injured in a Bike Accident? Jeff Davis Can Help    

Jeffrey R. Davis, P.A., is a Miami personal injury law firm helping accident victims, including those injured in bicycle accidents, obtain the compensation they deserve. Call us today at (305) 577-3777 to schedule a free consultation.