Motorists owe it to bicyclists and pedestrians to be careful and mindful on the road due to the sheer size and weight difference between vehicles and walkers or bikers. However, despite the devastating ramifications that can result from a collision, accidents involving bicyclists and pedestrians happen all too often in Florida. So much so that the state leads the country in both bicycle and pedestrian deaths; from 2010 to 2019, 5,893 pedestrians died in Florida auto accidents, while 185 bicycle accident fatalities occurred in 2021 alone.

If you or a loved one is injured in an accident due to a motorist’s negligence, the skilled accident attorneys at Kanner & Pintaluga will use their experience and aggressive negotiation skills to bolster your claim’s value and maximize your possible compensation.

Florida Laws That Can Affect Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Cases

If it’s proven that the motorist caused the accident due to acting negligently, whether because they were drunk, driving while distracted or failed to yield, they will be found at fault. However, the same laws apply to the bicyclist or pedestrian involved. Because Florida treats bicycles as vehicles, bicyclists are required to follow the same rules as motorists. This means if they run a red light, ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol or fail to equip their bike with front and rear lights, they can be held fully or partially at fault for the accident, which can severely impact your possible compensation. The same applies to a pedestrian who jaywalked or otherwise crossed the street illegally.

Common Bicycle and Pedestrian Injuries