Many folks have taken up road cycling for physical exercise and to improve their fitness and cardiovascular health. Others commute to work on bicycles. While bicycling is a great activity to enjoy, one should never underestimate the potential risks associated with road cycling. Bicycling accident injuries can be debilitating and sometimes fatal. More than 52,000 pedalcyclists have died in traffic crashes in the United States since 1932. In 2007, there were 3,214 traffic fatalities in Florida. Of those 119 died from bicycle accidents. http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/810986.PDF The attorneys at our law firm have significant experience in representing bicyclists who have suffered injuries due to negligent motorists. Florida law states that bicycles are vehicles. As such, their operation on roadways is regulated by the traffic laws. If we operate our bicycles as vehicles and follow the traffic laws, doing so will dramatically increase our safety.
Always keep in mind that while the laws are the same for motorists and cyclists, there are real differences between the two modes of transportation. For instance, motorists instinctively look out for other motor vehicles but they do not watch as carefully for pedestrians or fast-moving bicycles traveling on sidewalks, cross-walks and shoulders, especially those traveling in the opposite direction from the traffic flow. Be visible during the day and night. Wear bright clothing even during the day. Wear eye-catching bike jerseys – the more bright and colorful, the better. You need to be seen. Stay out of blind spots of all cars, trucks and buses. Use lights and reflectors in the early morning or at night. At night, use a front white light and a flashing rear light. Wear light-colored, reflective clothing, and at night use retro-reflective tape or markings on your equipment or clothes.
Motorists are shielded by their car’s body and frame. Bicyclists don’t have that kind of protection. Bicycle accidents are one of the main causes of brain injuries. A helmet is the most effective way to prevent head injuries resulting from a bicycle crash. Bicycle helmets are 85 to 88 percent effective in mitigating head and brain injuries. Florida has mandatory helmet laws for children under the age of 16. It is imperative that anyone who rides a bicycle wear a helmet.
Let motorists know exactly what you are doing. While signals are not required if you need both hands for control, at all other times, you must use hand signals and try to make eye contact with nearby motorists to make sure they are aware of you. Ride in the same direction as traffic when riding on a roadway or street. (Florida Statute 316.081) Taking the necessary precautions and following the traffic laws will increase your safety and make for an enjoyable ride.
More information about traffic laws for bicyclists and motorists may be found at: http://www.dot.state.fl.us/Safety/ped_bike/laws/ped_bike_bikeLaws1.shtm
