West Palm Beach Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Cyclists face unique risks on Florida roads; accidents often result in serious injuries. Florida’s bicycle-friendly weather and a growing number of riders make cycling popular in West Palm Beach. 

Unfortunately, this also means more collisions with motor vehicles. 

If you’ve been injured while riding your bike, a West Palm Beach bicycle accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Cyclists have legal rights, and holding negligent drivers accountable is essential for your recovery and safety.

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Why Choose The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, PA?

1. Individual attention for your case

The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld PA focuses on personalized service. They take the time to understand your unique circumstances and address your concerns. With their assistance, you’ll feel supported throughout the process.

2. Proven track record

This legal team has successfully handled many bicycle accident cases in Florida. They know how to secure fair compensation for cyclists when drivers or insurance companies act unfairly.

3. Clear and open communication

Legal processes can feel confusing. This firm makes sure you understand every step in your case. They clearly explain legal options so you can make informed decisions about proceeding.

4. Strong advocacy against negligent drivers

The firm ensures negligent drivers and their insurers are held responsible. Whether it’s distracted driving, failure to yield, or another cause, they work to ensure justice and financial recovery for injured cyclists.

What to Do in the Days and Weeks After a Bicycle Accident

After a bicycle accident, your actions in the days and weeks ahead can make a big difference in protecting your health and legal rights. Taking the right steps ensures you have the necessary records and evidence to support your claim for compensation. Here’s a guide to help you stay on track.

Keep all medical appointments

Seek medical attention immediately after the accident, and follow up with your doctor as recommended. 

Document injuries and expenses

Take photos of any visible injuries as they heal. Keep a journal that records your symptoms, pain levels, and how the accident affects your daily life. Save bills and receipts for all expenses related to your recovery, including medical costs, therapy, medications, and transportation to appointments. 

Organize evidence from the accident

Hold onto every piece of evidence related to the crash. This includes police reports, photos of the accident scene, and correspondence with the other driver or their insurance company. 

Be cautious in insurance communications

When speaking with insurance adjusters, remain factual and concise. Avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted or used to minimize your claim, such as speculating about fault or downplaying your injuries. 

Avoid posting about the accident on social media

What you share online can affect the outcome of your claim. Insurance companies may review your social media accounts to look for posts or photos that contradict your injury claims. Avoid discussing the accident or your recovery publicly until the case is resolved.

Obtain an estimate for bicycle repairs

If your bike was damaged, take it to a shop for an inspection and repair estimate. Save these documents as evidence for property damage reimbursement. If the bike is beyond repair, request a written statement confirming this, along with its value.

Track Lost Wages

Keep a record of any income you lose because of the accident. Ask your employer for documentation showing missed days of work, reduced hours, or limited duties. If your injuries affect your ability to work in the long term, you may also need a medical opinion about your future earning capacity.

Consult an Attorney

An attorney can help you assess the full extent of your losses and deal with insurance companies on your behalf. They guide you through complicated processes like proving liability and negotiating a fair settlement. Should I Consult with an Attorney is a common question after an accident, and the answer is yes—especially when the legal process feels overwhelming or you’re unsure about your rights.

Taking these steps after a bicycle accident helps protect your health and your ability to obtain compensation for injuries and damages. Being thorough and proactive ensures that the accident doesn’t leave you at a financial disadvantage in the coming weeks and months.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents happen for many reasons. Often, these collisions are preventable if drivers and cyclists follow the rules of the road. 

Below are some of the most frequent causes.

Distracted driving

Drivers distracted by cell phones, eating, or talking with passengers may not see cyclists. A moment of inattention can lead to a serious collision. All drivers need to put an end to distracted driving to help prevent accidents and protect vulnerable road users like cyclists.

Failure to yield

Drivers often fail to yield to cyclists at intersections or when making turns. This is especially common when they don’t check blind spots or assume cyclists will stop.

Dooring accidents

Parked drivers who open their car doors without checking for oncoming bicycles can cause dooring accidents. These collisions often throw cyclists into the street or on the pavement.

Unsafe passing

Florida law requires drivers to give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing. Many drivers ignore this law, creating dangerous conditions for riders.

Intoxicated driving

Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs put cyclists at extreme risk. Impaired judgment and slowed reflexes make it harder for them to avoid collisions.

Bicycle Accidents Involving Ride-Share or Delivery Drivers

Cyclists in West Palm Beach increasingly share roads with ride-share and delivery vehicles. With companies like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and others operating in the area, the risk of collisions between cyclists and these drivers has grown. 

If you’ve been injured in such an accident, a West Palm Beach bicycle accident lawyer can help you address the challenges of determining liability and dealing with insurance. These cases can become complicated due to the unique factors involved.

Key challenges with ride-share and delivery driver accidents

Bicycle accidents involving ride-share or delivery drivers differ from typical car-bike collisions. This is because drivers working for these platforms operate under specific conditions that can complicate accountability and insurance coverage.

Determining driver status

Ride-share and delivery drivers may either be on duty or off duty at the time of a collision. A driver heading to pick up a passenger or deliver a package is considered “on the clock,” meaning the company providing the service may have insurance that applies. 

However, if the driver is not actively working and simply using their car for personal reasons, their personal auto insurance becomes the primary source of coverage. Whether the driver was actively working requires gathering evidence, such as app activity logs or driver records.

Insurance coverage variations

Many ride-share and delivery companies offer insurance coverage for their drivers when they are actively on a job. 

However, gaps in coverage can exist. A driver waiting for a new assignment or in between deliveries may be in a “grey area” where only limited coverage applies. Florida’s requirements for personal liability insurance may be insufficient to cover substantial bicycle accident injuries. 

Cyclists can face resistance from multiple insurers determining who is liable to pay.

High-risk driving behavior

Ride-share and delivery drivers often work under tight deadlines, leading to rushed or distracted driving. Constantly checking apps for directions or new orders increases the likelihood of dangerous decisions, such as sudden turns, failing to yield at intersections, or stopping in bike lanes without warning. 

Proving Liability in Ride-Share and Delivery Accidents

Establishing fault in accidents involving ride-share or delivery drivers can require extensive investigation. Cyclists may face challenges as multiple parties, including the driver, the company they work for, and various insurers, often become involved in resolving these claims.

Reviewing app and driver records

Evidence from ride-share or delivery apps can clarify whether the driver was working during the collision. The company may provide records showing whether the driver was en route to pick up or deliver an order.

Examining road conduct

Drivers must adhere to traffic laws while working. Evidence of speeding, running a red light, or veering into a bike lane often proves negligence. Witness statements, surveillance footage, or accident reconstruction reports can highlight how the collision occurred.

Holding the company accountable

When drivers work for a ride-share or delivery company, these businesses often provide additional insurance coverage. The company’s policy may be accessed if liability lies with the driver while on duty. 

Challenges in Proving Fault

Proving fault in a bicycle accident claim can be complex. Drivers and their insurers often try to shift blame onto cyclists. How Is Fault Determined depends on the evidence gathered, including police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and physical damage at the scene. Here are some common challenges victims face.

Lack of witnesses

Some bicycle accidents happen in areas without witnesses. When there’s no one to confirm your story, it often becomes your word against the driver’s. Gathering as much evidence as possible helps counter this issue.

Bias against cyclists

Cyclists often face bias from drivers, insurers, and even police. Some people assume cyclists don’t follow traffic laws, which can influence decisions in your case.

Insufficient evidence

Without photos, police reports, or medical records, it may be harder to prove how the accident happened. Documenting every detail strengthens your claim.

Florida Bicycle Laws That Protect Cyclists

Florida has specific laws designed to protect cyclists on the road. These laws outline both cyclist and driver responsibilities, making it easier to determine fault.

Three Feet Rule

Motor vehicle drivers must give at least three feet of clearance when overtaking a bicycle. Failing to provide this space is a violation of state law.

Bicycle equipment requirements

Florida law requires bicycles to have proper lighting when ridden at night. A white headlight and red rear light or reflector increase visibility and safety.

Same rights as motorists

Bicycles are treated as vehicles under Florida law. Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers, including the right to use the full lane when necessary for safety.

Bike path usage

If a designated bike path is available, cyclists are encouraged to use it. However, they’re not required to ride on sidewalks unless local ordinances mandate it.

How Legal Assistance Can Help

Having a legal advocate can significantly improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. 

Here’s how an attorney can assist.

Evaluating your case

An attorney will review your accident details to determine what damages you can claim. These may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Communicating with insurers

Dealing with insurance companies can feel frustrating. An attorney will handle negotiations, ensuring your case is presented clearly and strongly. They’ll also protect you from being pressured into accepting a low settlement. While you can work with the insurance company on your own, it’s easy to be misled or accept less than you’re entitled to without legal guidance.

Building a comprehensive claim

Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction specialists if needed. This creates a strong case to maximize your compensation.

Pursuing a lawsuit

If a fair settlement isn’t offered, your West Palm Beach bicycle accident lawyer can pursue a lawsuit on your behalf. They’ll advocate for your interests in court while you focus on recovery.

Compensation for Cyclists in Florida

Bicycle accident victims may qualify for a variety of compensatory damages under Florida law. These damages help address the financial and emotional toll of the accident.

Medical expenses

Compensation covers the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing medical needs. Serious injuries like fractures or head trauma often lead to considerable medical bills.

Lost wages

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to lost wages. This also includes loss of future earning capacity in cases where long-term disabilities affect your ability to return to work.

Pain and suffering

Non-economic damages address the physical and emotional toll of a bicycle accident. These include pain, suffering, and any long-term impacts on your quality of life. Calculating pain and suffering often involves evaluating the severity of your injuries, the length of your recovery, and how the accident has affected your daily life and emotional well-being.

Property damage

You may also be able to recover costs to repair or replace your bicycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

Our West Palm Beach Bicycle Accident Attorneys Make a Difference

Bicycle accidents can have life-changing consequences. Recovering from your injuries takes time, and dealing with legal matters while you heal can feel difficult. Working with a West Palm Beach bicycle accident lawyer ensures your case receives the attention it deserves.

Holding negligent drivers accountable protects your rights and helps prevent similar accidents in the future. Legal assistance can relieve the burden of fighting for justice alone, whether you’re pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost income, or pain and suffering.

If you’re ready to take the next step, contact a West Palm Beach bicycle accident attorney today at (954) 677-0155. Your safety, health, and financial well-being are too important to leave to chance.

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