Bicycle Accident Lawyer Panama City
As biking becomes more and more popular as a means of transportation and exercise, the number of bicycle accidents has soared. Even with dedicated bike lanes and other accommodations to make biking safer, bicyclists face many dangers on the road.
At the law firm of Walborsky Bradley & Fleming, PLLC, we represent people who have been injured in bike accidents in Panama City and throughout the surrounding areas. To learn about your options after a serious bike-related accident, please complete our online contact form.
Help For Bicyclists Injured By Negligent Drivers In Florida
Drivers have a responsibility to drive in a manner that does not put bicyclists in harm’s way. Unfortunately, drivers engage in all types of dangerous behavior that threatens the safety of bicyclists:
- Texting while driving
- Talking on a cellphone
- Drinking and driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Speeding
- Failing to look before turning
- Failing to give bicyclists enough space
- Failing to yield
- Running a red light
- Breaking traffic laws
Another common cause of bicycle accidents is unsafe roadways. When roads and highways are not properly maintained, bicycle riders face an increased risk of being injured.
Our attorneys can help you with the aftermath of a serious bicycle-car collision. After a serious injury has occurred, the life of the victim and those close to him or her will change. We can help you seek the compensation necessary to deal with the financial aspects of the accident, to cover the cost of medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages and much more. This can help your family adjust to your changed life.
What To Do After A Bicycle Accident
The moments following a bicycle accident are critical for both your health and any future legal claim. Taking the right steps can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. You should:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
- Report the accident to law enforcement and obtain a copy of the police report
- Collect contact and insurance information from the driver and any witnesses
- Document the accident scene with photographs of your bicycle, the vehicle, roadway conditions and your injuries
- Preserve evidence, including damaged clothing, helmet and bicycle
- Avoid discussing fault or making statements to insurance adjusters before consulting with an attorney
- Keep detailed records of all medical treatments and expenses related to your injuries
Following these steps creates a strong foundation for your injury claim and helps ensure you receive appropriate medical care for your injuries.
Common Injuries From Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the minimal protection they have compared to vehicle occupants. Cyclists frequently suffer these serious injuries:
- Traumatic brain injuries, even when wearing helmets
- Spinal cord injuries that may result in partial or complete paralysis
- Multiple fractures, particularly to collarbones, wrists, arms and legs
- Road rash and skin abrasions that can lead to serious infections
- Internal organ damage from the impact of hitting the ground or a vehicle
- Facial injuries and dental trauma requiring reconstructive procedures
- Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, and may result in permanent disability or impairment. The financial burden of such injuries can be substantial, making proper compensation crucial for recovery.
The Importance Of Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is particularly vital for cyclists in Florida. This coverage provides protection when the at-fault driver has insufficient insurance or flees the scene in a hit-and-run accident. This coverage becomes crucial in scenarios where:
- The driver who hits you has no insurance or minimal coverage.
- You are the victim of a hit-and-run accident where the driver is never identified.
- The at-fault driver’s insurance limits are insufficient to cover your significant injuries.
- Multiple injured parties are making claims against a single policy with limited coverage.
Our attorneys can help you navigate the complex insurance claims process and identify all potential sources of compensation after a serious bicycle accident.
Schedule A Free Legal Consultation With A Lawyer Today
We offer a no-cost consultation to every accident victim. Please call our office at 850-250-4252 or 850-250-4252 to schedule a convenient time to meet. Your full recovery is our utmost concern.