Will Insurance Cover My Bicycle Accident in Florida?

On Florida roads, bicyclists ride alongside cars, trucks, buses, etc. All the while, they must look out for any pedestrians or stationary objects that may be in their way. This is why bicycle accidents are reported far too frequently in the state. And if you are ever involved in one, you may be wondering how insurance may cover your injuries and other damages. Continue reading to learn whether an at-fault driver’s insurance will cover your bicycle accident and how an experienced Riverview personal injury lawyer at The Frank Santini Law Firm can help you navigate this.

What makes a driver at fault for my bicycle accident?

Automobile drivers at most commonly at fault for bicycle accidents. Examples of driver negligence that leads to such accidents read as follows:

• Driving recklessly:
  • Driving over the speed limit.
  • Making unsafe lane changes.
  • Disregarding traffic signs and signals.
  • Failing to yield.
  • Failing to check blind spots.
  • Failing to follow the rules of the road.
• Driving while distracted:
  • Navigating directions of the GPS.
  • Disciplining rowdy children in the backseat.
  • Smoking or eating.
  • Texting.
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Driving while fatigued.

Will the at-fault driver’s insurance cover my bicycle accident in the state of Florida?

Notably, the state of Florida follows no-fault insurance law. This means that all Florida drivers must carry personal injury protection insurance so to pay for the medical expenses and other accident-related damages that they may be at fault for. With that being said, if you are involved in a bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, you may be able to file a claim with their insurance company.

It is important to note that even if you believe that you are partially responsible for your bicycle accident, you may still recover your damages from the other party’s insurance company. However, your award may be reduced by the percentage of fault that has been assigned to you.

What if another party is at-fault for my bicycle accident?

Bicycle accidents do not just occur between bicycles and automobiles. They also commonly occur between bicycles and pedestrians, other bicycles, or stationary objects. Insurance may cover these different types of situations differently, and they read as follows:

• Bicycle-pedestrian accident: if a pedestrian fails to observe traffic signals, walks in the bike lane, or otherwise, then the personal liability coverage on their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may cover your medical expenses and other accident-related damages.
• Bicycle-bicycle accident: if another cyclist is riding the wrong way, speeding, or otherwise, then their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may cover your medical expenses and other accident-related damages.
• Bicycle-stationary object accident: if you collide with a tree, pole, or otherwise, then you will likely have to go to your health insurance. However, if you believe that your collision was due to human error, like a car parked in an illegal spot, then you may be able to file a claim with an at-fault party’s insurance company.

For more, contact a skilled Hillsborough County auto accident lawyer today.