The Florida Motor Vehicle Code defines “bicycles” as “[e]very vehicle propelled solely by human power, and every motorized bicycle propelled by a combination of human power and an electric helper motor capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of not more than 20 miles per hour on level ground upon which any person may ride, having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two front or two rear wheels.”
Bicycling is a fun, economical, environmentally-friendly, and healthy mode of transportation. However, cycling is not without risks. Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable when sharing the road with motor vehicles.
Bicycle accidents are a unique type of personal injury requiring unique legal expertise. John Fagan possesses a wealth of such expertise. If you or a loved one suffered personal injuries resulting from a bicycle accident, seek immediate medical attention. Once you have sought treatment and are able to address the legal issues, please consult John Fagan of John Fagan Accident Lawyers to discuss your potential case.
BRINGING A PERSONAL INJURY LAWSUIT:
NEGLIGENCE AND OTHER CLAIMS
The primary claim or cause of action for personal injury lawsuits, including bicycle accidents, is Negligence. Motorists and bicyclists have a legal obligation to one another when sharing the road: they must drive/ride in a safe and reasonable manner. If either party fails to satisfy that obligation, he/she has breached a legal duty. When that breach causes injury to another party, the injured party has sustained legal damage. When these elements occur, a Negligence claim arises.
Depending on the individual facts of your case, other causes of action may apply. Pleading the appropriate causes of action, as well as suing the responsible parties (called “defendants”), impacts the amount of compensation you may recover. For example, bicycle accident victims are often emotionally as well as physically injured. If you suffered severe emotional distress due to the accident, Mr. Fagan would include the claim of Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress in your lawsuit.
Jacksonville bicycle accident lawyer John Fagan will thoroughly and aggressively litigate your case to obtain the maximum compensation to which the law entitles you.
SAFETY TIPS
John Fagan Accident Lawyers offer the following safety tips to bicyclists and motorists for safely sharing the road and avoiding the necessity of personal injury lawsuits:
BICYCLISTS
- Know and follow Florida’s bicycle laws. The Department of Motor Vehicles is a reliable source.
- Ride on the road, not the sidewalk.
- Be alert – do not ride while intoxicated; do not wear earpieces or headphones when riding; do not text or use a cell phone when riding.
- Keep a safe distance from motor vehicles.
- Ensure your bicycle is in proper working condition, including lights.
- Be visible – wear brightly-colored clothes during the day and reflective clothing at night.
MOTORISTS
- Be aware of bicyclists – watch for them and be courteous.
- Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and bicyclists.
- Know and follow Florida’s bicycle laws. The Department of Motor Vehicles is a reliable source.
- Stay alert while driving – do not text and drive; do not drive while intoxicated.
RETAINING A JACKSONVILLE BICYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
Mr. Fagan has been faithfully and successfully representing clients in various personal injury actions, including bicycle accidents, for 30 years. If you suffered injuries resulting from a bicycle accident, your energy is best directed at healing and recovering. Allow a seasoned and skilled Jacksonville bicycle accident lawyer such as Mr. Fagan to represent your legal interests and pursue the maximum compensation for your physical and emotional injuries.
Please contact Jacksonville bicycle accident lawyer John Fagan at 1-855-Fagan-Law to confer with Mr. Fagan regarding your potential case.
