According to statistics from the National Highway Transportation Association, injuries and fatalities from bicycle crashes are on the upswing after years of years of decreasing rates. This alarming statistic is important to cyclists in our state because Florida is the state with the greatest amount of fatalities stemming from bicycle accidents. Nevertheless, what about bicyclists who survive an accident, but suffer severe or catastrophic injuries as a result? This is where the services of an experienced bicycle accident attorney Gainesville, FL are needed most.
Common Injuries Suffered in Bicycle Crashes
Victims of bicycle crashes suffer more head injuries than any other sports according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Head injuries account for almost 36 percent of all injuries received by cyclists. This type of injury can also be one of the most catastrophic depending upon the severity of the injury. There can be initial medical expenses that are staggering, let alone future medical expenses, loss of past and future earnings and any costs related to needed rehabilitation services.
Almost two-thirds of injuries stemming from bicycle crashes are of an orthopedic nature. This includes mainly fractures of the foot, ankle and leg fractures, in addition to broken arms, shoulders and collarbones. Many of these injuries can be life-altering and lead to continued pain and suffering in the future.
Some of the most devastating injuries that a cyclist can suffer are abrasions (often referred to as road rash), lacerations and contusions that can lead to permanent scarring. While many abrasions do not require an immediate trip to the emergency room or treatment from a medical doctor, they can cause what is known as traumatic tattooing, which is the permanent scarring, discoloration or raising of the skin from debris that may have forcibly entered the site of the injury upon impact. This debris could include dirt, paint flecks, metal or asphalt in addition to other foreign objects.
Florida Bicycle Laws
To avoid fatalities and injuries, Floridians are required to follow specific laws that have been put into effect and are revised periodically by the Florida Legislature. A bicycle is not considered a toy, but instead the laws legally define it as a vehicle and bicyclists are legally considered as drivers. This means bicyclists are subject to the same traffic laws as drivers of cars, trucks and motorcycles and have the same rights on the roadways in our state. Because of these laws, if you are involved in an accident, it is important to hire a bicycle accident attorney Gainesville, FL that has a full understanding of these laws and how they relate to your rights.
Bicyclists are required to wear protective headgear and have lights on their bicycles if they ride them at night to help prevent head injuries and accidents from not being seen by drivers. However, no matter how many precautions that a cyclist may take or how strict they adhere to the rules of the road, accidents may still happen. This can be because of defective head gear, bicycle parts, and in many bicycle accident cases, automobile drivers who are negligent. An experienced bicycle accident attorney Gainesville, FL will understand how all these factors relate to Florida bicycle and motor vehicle laws.
Protect Yourself if You are an Accident Victim
Regardless of the cause, if you are involved in a bicycle accidents, you need experienced representation from a bicycle accident attorney Gainesville, FL to protect your rights and make sure you are properly compensated for your injuries. The personal injury attorneys at Steven A. Bagen & Associates are experienced in representing bicycle crash victims in court. Our lawyers will advise you of your rights and options in pursuing legal action for compensation to cover your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
