Miami Bicycle Accident Attorney

When a bicyclist is struck by a car or truck, the injuries can be catastrophic. If you have been in a collision while on your bicycle with a motor vehicle, we invite you to contact our team today. If it can be proven that the driver was careless or negligent, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

As a cyclist, you are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries, which is why having a Miami bicycle accident attorney can make a significant difference in your path to recovery. At Gallardo Law Firm, we are ready to help you secure the maximum compensation possible.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

The challenges can be significant in everyday urban living, especially for cyclists. Understanding how to avoid the most common types of collisions is essential for safety:

• Open Car Doors – Passengers in parked vehicles may unexpectedly open doors, striking cyclists
• Lack of appropriate infrastructure: Most city areas don’t have many bike lanes, so cyclists have to share spaces with regular traffic.
• Reckless driving of motor vehicles: Drivers often make dangerous turns or ignore lanes designated exclusively for bicycles.
• Influence of alcohol or drugs: Both cyclists and regular drivers who operate under the influence of these substances endanger their lives and those of others.
• Distraction: Cell phone use or wearing headphones by either party often leads to dangerous rear-end collisions.

Damages and Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

In a collision between a bicycle and a vehicle, the cyclist is at a clear disadvantage. While precautions like helmets and bright clothing offer some protection, injuries can still be severe.

The most common injuries include fractures in arms or legs and head or spinal trauma, which, in extreme cases, can lead to temporary or permanent disabilities. Additionally, if you’re involved in such an incident, you may suffer bruises, cuts, or abrasions that require immediate medical attention.

Physical injuries are often accompanied by psychological effects such as anxiety, stress, and fear of cycling again. Material damage, financial burdens from hospital expenses, and potential long-term rehabilitation are common consequences.

How Can Gallardo Law Firm Help?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, expert legal guidance is essential to navigate the claims process. Our team at Gallardo Law Firm is here to build a strong case on your behalf.

In supporting your claim, we will scrutinize the incident and all those who may be liable participants, whether a negligent driver or even a government entity charged, to ensure that roads are safe. There will be a thorough investigation to gather all necessary evidence: police records, witness statements, security camera footage, and all supportive proofs.

One of the most challenging facets of these lawsuits is the negotiation with the insurance companies. Our bicycle injury lawyers have negotiated many of these agreements and possess a deep understanding of the law in this area. We will guarantee that you are treated reasonably and that your compensation is satisfactory.

If the talks with the insurance companies do not yield the required results, be rest assured that our bicycle accident attorneys will represent you in court to protect your rights and provide you with maximum benefits.

Bicycle Accidents Leading to Wrongful Death Claims

When a cyclist loses their life due to another person’s negligence or irresponsible behavior, the victim’s family has the right to file a wrongful death claim to seek justice and appropriate compensation.

These claims can be pursued when there is clear evidence that another party caused the fatality. This may include drivers who violated traffic laws, such as failure to yield or speeding, companies responsible for defective vehicles or unsafe conditions, or even local government agencies that neglected proper road maintenance.

These cases can be quite hard to win and may even be emotionally challenging, so having experienced professionals, such as the Gallardo Law Firm, will make quite a difference. We’re committed to seeing that justice is served and your family gets the compensation and closure it deserves.

Florida Laws Protecting Cyclists

Florida has specific laws to protect cyclists on the road, including:

• Open Car Doors – Passengers in parked vehicles may unexpectedly open doors, striking cyclists.
• Helmet use: Helmets are mandatory for cyclists under the age of 16 but not required for adults, although they are strongly recommended as an additional safety measure.
• Right to share the road: Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and must be treated as legitimate road users.
• Lighting and visibility: Cyclists must use white front lights and red rear reflectors when riding at night.
• Use of bike lanes: Cyclists are required to use bike lanes when available, but they also have the option to ride in general traffic lanes when necessary.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Miami?

Unfortunately, if you have been involved in a bicycle accident, your health and legal rights are very important. See a doctor right away, even if you feel that your injuries are minor, because some types of injuries do not show symptoms right away. It’s also very important to contact the authorities so that they can make an official report, which may be important for any claim.

Try to get all the information about the other driver involved, including his name, license number, vehicle plate number, and insurance details. Take photos of your injuries, your bicycle, and any other details relevant to the scene. Also, get witnesses who can testify to what they saw from the collision.

Don’t admit to liability or say anything that may be interpreted as admitting to fault in the incident. Consult with a bike accident attorney about your situation to obtain the best legal outcome.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Depending on the circumstances and severity of your injuries, you may be entitled to the following compensation:

• Medical charges: Normally covers immediate medical care, possible surgeries, and physical therapy if necessary.
• Punitive damages: If the accident occurs due to extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, additional compensation may be awarded to penalize the responsible party.
• Material damages: Compensation for repairing or replacing your bicycle or any other property damaged in the accident.
• Lost income: If your wounds keep you from working temporarily or permanently, you may claim lost wages and reduced earning potential.
• Reduced quality of life: If the accident impacts your ability to do your daily activities or restricts your independence, you may be entitled to compensation for these difficulties.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for both physical and emotional distress, including any long-term discomfort, stress, or trauma caused by the accident.

What Happens when Bicycle Accidents Involve Children?

Bicycle accidents involving children are especially complex, as minors are more vulnerable to serious injury. The law holds those responsible to a higher standard of accountability. Parents should not forget that such an incident involves their child, and they have certain legal rights and options.

Our lawyers can handle such cases with compassion and address the issue as a family matter. First, we consider that a child is judged differently because it is in their nature to be less careful compared to adults. Secondly, drivers are supposed to be more cautious than usual when children are on the road.

Claims in these situations can include compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation therapies, and additional damages if the quality of life of the infant is affected in the short or long term. This may also include emotional distress caused by the incident.

Get a Free Case Evaluation with a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Miami

Cyclists face significant risks every time they take to the road. They are not only at a disadvantage compared to motor vehicles but are also less visible and far more vulnerable. Limited stability, adverse weather conditions, and poorly maintained roads compound these risks.

At Gallardo Law Firm, we understand how sensitive these circumstances can be. Our commitment is to defend your rights and work directly with your medical and other experts to ensure you obtain the highest compensation you deserve. Any of our Miami bike accident attorneys have a proven track record of victories precisely because they provide personalized service in every case.

Don’t go through this problem alone. Trust us to take you through the process and support you. Call today for your free consultation and take that first step. Your safety, as well as that of your family, is our highest concern!