Broward County's vibrant coastal communities, from Fort Lauderdale to Hollywood, make it a premier destination for cyclists. However, sharing busy thoroughfares like Federal Highway or State Road A1A with distracted drivers often leads to devastating collisions. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured while riding, Altman Law Firm is here to help you navigate the complex recovery process and pursue the compensation you deserve.
With a population of nearly two million residents and millions of annual visitors, Broward County roads are constantly congested. Cyclists face significant dangers on major corridors such as Sunrise Boulevard, University Drive, and Dixie Highway. Whether you were commuting to work, training, or enjoying a weekend ride near the beach, a collision with a passenger vehicle can result in catastrophic injuries. Florida law treats bicycles as vehicles, granting cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, yet drivers frequently fail to yield the right-of-way or check their blind spots before turning.
Recovering from a bicycle accident involves navigating complex legal frameworks. Under Florida's modified comparative negligence system, your recovery can be impacted if you are found partially at fault for the accident. For instance, if a motorist claims you were riding outside the designated lane or failed to use proper lighting at night, it could affect your compensation. Jeffrey S. Altman works diligently to investigate the circumstances of your crash, gather critical evidence from the scene, and build a compelling case to demonstrate the motorist's liability, helping to protect your rights under state law.
Time is a critical factor following a bicycle collision. Florida has strict statutes of limitations governing personal injury and wrongful death claims. Failing to file your lawsuit within these statutory deadlines can permanently bar you from pursuing financial recovery for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Additionally, securing evidence such as traffic camera footage from busy Broward intersections and witness statements must be done promptly before it is lost or destroyed. Consulting an attorney early helps ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.
Your health is the top priority; seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. If possible, call the local police or Broward County Sheriff's Office to document the incident. Take photos of the scene, your bicycle, the vehicle involved, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the driver, and collect contact details from any witnesses. Finally, consult with a personal injury attorney before speaking to insurance adjusters.
Yes. In Florida, adult cyclists are not legally required to wear helmets. While insurance defense lawyers may attempt to use the lack of a helmet to argue comparative negligence—suggesting it contributed to your injuries—it does not automatically disqualify you from recovering compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.
Florida is a no-fault insurance state. If you own a motor vehicle and have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, your own auto insurance may cover a portion of your medical bills and lost wages, even though you were on a bicycle. If you do not own a car, you may be covered under a household relative's PIP policy or by the driver's PIP coverage. If your injuries exceed your PIP limits or qualify as permanent, you can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver's bodily injury liability insurance.
Under Florida law, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including bicycle accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, the timeline is also typically two years from the date of passing. Because gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time, it is highly advisable to consult with legal counsel as soon as possible.
If you have been seriously injured in a Broward County bicycle accident, contact Altman Law Firm today to schedule a free, confidential consultation to discuss your legal options. Call (305) 373-3730.