Cycling is a popular and revered activity in Fort Lauderdale, serving as a means of exercise, socialization, and a practical mode of transportation. The community embraces this eco-friendly and health-conscious way of getting around, making it an integral part of daily life.
Fort Lauderdale dedicates considerable resources to creating a more bicycle-friendly environment, with improved infrastructure, designated lanes, and increased awareness among motorists. Nevertheless, the dangers persist.
Recognizing the pressing need for legal assistance in these distressing situations, the Blakeley Law Firm, P.A., supports injured riders in Fort Lauderdale.
Our team of experienced and compassionate bicycle accident attorneys is deeply committed to helping victims pursue the financial compensation they deserve following a bicycle accident.
Our accomplished lawyers have worked tirelessly, advocating for countless individuals and families, to secure the financial resources necessary to cover all the expenses from these accidents.
From medical bills and rehabilitation costs to property damage and lost wages, our team understands the multifaceted challenges that victims and their loved ones face after a accident.
We guide them through the legal process, providing adept legal representation and much-needed support and understanding as they embark on recovery and healing.
At the Blakeley Law Firm, P.A., we firmly believe that no one should suffer unjustly due to the negligence of others, especially when it comes to such life-altering incidents as bicycle accidents.
We are committed to getting injured riders the compensation they need to rebuild their lives, regain their physical and emotional well-being, and move forward confidently in the face of adversity. Reach out to a Fort Lauderdale bicycle accident lawyer.
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Why Choose Us?
Here are just a few reasons to hire Blakely Law Firm to take your Fort Lauderdale bicycle accident injury case.
You’re Injured
If you suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, immediately hire an attorney to hold the negligent party responsible for their negligence.
While you concentrate on your recovery, rest assured that a respected personal injury law firm is diligently working alongside you to secure the compensation you are entitled to.
You Need Help Negotiating
Most bicycle injury cases resolve through out-of-court settlements. Valid claims generally end with settlements, but that doesn’t necessarily guarantee a win.
Starting negotiations is the first step in handling a bicycle injury claim. If you’re not experienced in dealing with big insurance companies, hire a lawyer to handle the negotiations.
Related article: How Long Does a Bicycle Accident Claim Take?
Lawyers Typically Recoup Greater Settlements
Lawyers can often get you more money in settlements because they know how to value personal injury claims. When you hire a personal injury attorney, they have the experience to properly evaluate your claim and get the compensation you deserve.
No Upfront Payments
Most personal injury lawyers work on a “you win, they get paid” basis, meaning they only receive money if you win your case. They usually get a part of the money you receive from your settlement.
If they agree to represent you, they believe your case is strong and has a good chance of winning in court. Hiring a personal injury attorney gives you the best chance at a fair settlement.
An Attorney Represents Your Case at Trial
Although most civil cases resolve before court, you might have to go to trial if the insurance company rejects your offer.
You need a lawyer advocating for your case in such situations.
When you hire a personal injury attorney, you can even the odds when facing insurance companies with formidable legal teams.
Jarrett Blakeley and his team of skilled legal advisors are ready to talk to you about your case. We have the years of legal training and experience required to get a fair settlement for your losses.
If you’d like to discuss the strengths of your case, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation, 24/7.
What You Need to Know About Bicycle Accidents in Fort Lauderdale
In sunny Fort Lauderdale, where bike lanes crisscross the city, troubling problems have surfaced, clouding the joy of cycling.
Urban Transformation and Traffic Challenges
As the area undergoes rapid urbanization, its once serene streets transformed into bustling thoroughfares. The city’s core, once a sanctuary for leisurely bike rides, now throbs with traffic, creating an environment conducive to bicycle accidents.
The widespread use of smartphones and electronic devices has given rise to a new menace: distracted driving. As drivers become absorbed in their screens, their attention wanes, making them more susceptible to accidents involving cyclists.
City infrastructures are also a contributor. Despite efforts to enhance cycling infrastructure with dedicated bike lanes, Fort Lauderdale’s bike network still leaves much undone.
Cyclists often share narrow lanes with larger vehicles, elevating the risk of accidents.
Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant nightlife scene, characterized by neon lights and bustling bars, sets the stage for intoxication and exacerbates the problem for cyclists. The combination of alcohol and cycling not only endangers cyclists but also poses a risk to pedestrians during late-night hours.
Related article: How Safe is Cycling on the Road?
Healthcare Costs
Bicycle accidents don’t just burden injured cyclists but also the healthcare system. Emergency room visits, surgeries, and rehabilitation costs add up significantly.
The economic consequences of bicycle accidents extend to local businesses catering to cyclists, including bike rental shops, repair services, and restaurants, because they experience declining profits as accidents deter cyclists from patronizing them.
Legal Complexities
Bicycle accidents often lead to legal disputes involving personal injury claims and liability issues, further complicating the financial aftermath of accidents.
The Most Dangerous Roads in Fort Lauderdale for Cyclists
Some of the most hazardous intersections and roads in Fort Lauderdale and surrounding areas include:
- Sunrise Boulevard and Andrews Avenue in Fort Lauderdale
- Alton Road and Dade Boulevard in South Beach
- Interstate 95 traversing Broward County and Miami-Dade County
- West Oakland Park Boulevard and NW 50th Avenue in Sunrise
- A1A and Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale
- State Road 84 in Fort Lauderdale
- South Flamingo Road and Pines Boulevard in Pembroke Pines
- Okeechobee Boulevard and North Military Trail in West Palm Beach
These locations have consistently witnessed a high number of traffic accidents.
If you come across hazardous roads and intersections, you can report them to the Florida Department of Transportation to help improve safety.
Jarrett Blakeley and his skilled team are ready to talk to discuss your case. We have the years of legal training and experience required to get a fair settlement for your losses.
If you’d like to review the strengths of your case, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for your free consultation.
The Most Common Bicycle Accident Injuries?
Bicycle accidents result in a full range of injuries, some of which can be severe. The most common injuries include:
- Road rash: When the rider’s skin meets the road surface, it can range from minor scrapes and abrasions to skin loss and infection.
- Fractures: Broken bones are a common injury in bike wrecks, often involving the arms, wrists, collarbones, and legs.
- Head injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can occur if a cyclist’s head strikes the ground, a vehicle, or a stationary object. Even with a helmet, head injuries can happen.
- Spinal injuries: Spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis or long-term disability. These injuries can occur when a crash throws a cyclist from their bike or they land awkwardly.
- Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries can result from the impact of a bicycle accident. These can cause pain and limited mobility.
- Internal injuries: Internal injuries, such as organ damage or bleeding, can occur if the rider’s body is struck with force during a collision.
- Facial injuries: Facial injuries, including fractures, lacerations, and dental injuries, can happen if a cyclist’s face contacts a hard surface or an object.
- Cuts and lacerations: Cyclists may suffer cuts and deep lacerations from broken glass, vehicle parts, or other sharp objects involved in the accident.
- Nerve damage: Nerve damage can result from impact or compression during the accident, leading to loss of sensation or function in affected areas.
- Psychological trauma: The emotional and psychological impact of a bike accident can be significant, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions.
The severity of these injuries varies extensively depending on the accident’s circumstances, the use of protective gear, such as helmets, and other factors.
Cyclists should always wear appropriate safety equipment and follow traffic laws to reduce the risk of injury.
If you’re ever in a bicycle accident, seek prompt medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as some injuries may not immediately appear but worsen over time. Afterward, it's important to consult a Fort Lauderdale bicycle injury lawyer to protect your rights and help secure the compensation you deserve.
Do I Need a Lawyer if I Was Injured in a Fort Lauderdale Bicycle Accident?
If you've been injured in a bicycle accident in Fort Lauderdale, a skilled Fort Lauderdale bicycle accident lawyer can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Here's why:
- Consultation and assessment: The lawyer will meet with the victim to gather information about the accident, injuries, and damages. They will assess the strength of the case and provide an initial evaluation of potential legal options.
- Investigating the accident: Lawyers often work with investigators and experts to gather evidence related to the accident, including accident reports, interviewing witnesses, examining the accident scene, and collecting available surveillance footage.
- Determining liability: Establishing who is at fault for the bicycle accident is crucial. The lawyer will examine the evidence to determine if the negligence of another party, such as a motorist, property owner, or manufacturer, contributed to the accident.
- Identifying damages: Lawyers will help victims identify and quantify their damages, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical expenses.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Most bike accident cases involve dealing with insurance companies. Lawyers will negotiate with the liable insurance company for a fair settlement. They will work to ensure that the victim’s rights are defended and that they receive adequate compensation.
- Filing a lawsuit: If negotiations with the insurance company do not result in a satisfactory settlement, the lawyer may file a lawsuit on behalf of the victim.
- Litigation: If the case goes to court, the lawyer will represent the victim during legal proceedings, including preparing legal documents, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and making legal arguments to the court.
- Settlement negotiations and mediation: Even during the litigation process, lawyers often explore opportunities for settlement through negotiations or mediation. The goal is to reach a favorable resolution without needing a trial.
- Trial representation: If the case goes to trial, the lawyer will advocate for the victim in court, presenting a compelling case and arguing for the victim’s right to compensation.
Throughout the entire process, a lawyer’s role is to protect the interests of the bicycle accident victim, advocate for their rights, and work to secure the maximum compensation for their injuries and losses.
The victim needs to work closely with their Fort Lauderdale bike accident attorney, providing them with all relevant information and cooperating in the legal process.
Call Our Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyers for Your Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured and don’t know how to begin, don’t worry. Blakely Law Firm PA is here to assist you.
Our team is dedicated to helping accident victims obtain compensation to improve their quality of life. We also take a proactive legal stance to achieve a swift resolution. Reach out to a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer.
If you’d like to discuss the strengths of your case, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (954) 253-9445 for a free consultation.