Connect with us!

Call now for a FREE consultation

(561) 375-9500

Tampa Bicycle Accident Attorney

Get Your Free Consultation

With cycling lanes, bike trails, and bike racks throughout our beachside communities and bustling downtown, Tampa city officials have made a concerted effort to encourage this mode of transportation; it leads the nation for bike-friendly businesses. However, it is also trending for more concerning statistics. Tampa Bay is the fourth deadliest region in the country for pedestrians and cyclists. Last year alone, there were nearly 500 bicycle crashes across Hillsborough County.

If you sustained serious injuries in a biking accident caused by a negligent driver, Kogan & DiSalvo can help. We know that it can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating. Our Tampa personal injury attorneys explore every legal remedy available to recover compensation for your losses. Schedule a free consultation today.

What Are the Leading Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

Helmet next to bike on crosswalk after a bike accident

While several cities across the Tampa Bay area have taken steps to make it safer for pedestrians and bicyclists, the American Automobile Association (AAA) still named the region as one of the most dangerous.

The most common causes of bicycle accidents in Tampa and across the region include the following:

  • Distracted driving
  • Drowsy driving  
  • Aggressive driving
  • Alcohol-related crashes
  • Low visibility in inclement weather makes it challenging to see bicyclists
  • Failure to yield to bicyclists and confusion with drivers over right of way
  • Dangerous road conditions, poorly-maintained surfaces, and construction zones

As a tourist destination, Tampa roads are flooded with motorists who are unfamiliar with the area. If they are distracted by their GPS navigation screens or looking for traffic signs and exits, they are often oblivious to bicyclists sharing the road beside them. If they turn without looking or signaling, bicyclists may not have time to react and avoid a collision.

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Cyclist woman with sportswear and sunglasses adjusting her bicycle helmet

Aside from a helmet and pads, nothing else can protect bicyclists from the impact of motor vehicles, structures, or road surfaces.

Bicycle accident injuries range in severity from superficial cuts and bruises to more severe conditions like road rash, strains, sprains, and broken bones. Facial injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, amputations, and damage to internal organs are examples of non-fatal catastrophic injuries resulting from bicycle crashes.

Physical rehabilitation after a bike crash can be a demanding, time-intensive process. Accident victims may require hospitalization, surgery, and physical therapy to restore mobility and function.  

Steps to Take After an Accident

A bicyclist riding down the side of the road at sunset

After an accident, the first step is to assessthe scene to determine if anyone is hurt. When there are injuries or property damage, everyone involved must remain at the scene and wait for police to arrive.

Exchange information with the driver. If there are witnesses, ask them to provide their name, phone number, or email.  Do not admit fault. Instead, allow the police, attorneys, and insurance companies to investigate and gather the facts.

If you can, take photos, including damage to your bicycle. Write down any details exactly as you recall them. For example, describe what happened, the road conditions, weather, and other bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists who were present.

It can be helpful to draw a map to illustrate the position and direction of everyone involved. Share these details with the police when they take your report. Be sure to note the number of the report so you can obtain a copy.

Even if you don’t have pain or signs of an injury, it is still essential to seekmedical attention. Bicycle accidents often result in delayed onset injuries, which usually don’t have immediate and obvious symptoms but can develop or worsen over time.

Hiring a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Tampa

Silhouette of cyclist riding at sunset with trees in the background

A consultation with a Tampa bicycle accident lawyer should be your next step. Representation from an experienced and skilled attorney is essential to protect your interests and pursue the maximum compensation possible based on your injuries and other losses.

These accidents happen quickly, so it is difficult to determine who or what caused them. Our team of Tampa injury lawyers has the resources to obtain critical evidence, such as CCTV video footage, and thoroughly investigate your case to determine if you have grounds to bring a personal injury claim.

We caution clients who have been hurt in bicycle accidents against negotiating with insurance companies without the guidance of an attorney. While they may offer you a quick settlement, it may not be fair or reasonable.

Our legal team can thoroughly assess your losses, including how the accident has impacted your physical and emotional health and well-being. We do this to calculate your damages, which could include past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and property damage.

Determining Who is At Fault in a Bicycle Accident

A file folder tab labeled "Evidence"

In March 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 837 into law. The Civil Remedies Act directly impacts plaintiffs and their personal injury claims in key ways.

First, Florida is now a modified comparative negligence jurisdiction, barring claims in which the plaintiff is determined (by a judge or jury) to be more than 50 percent at fault. However, if the plaintiff is found 50 percent or less at fault, their recovery is reduced proportionally to their fault. For example, if you were deemed 10 percent at fault for your bicycle accident and received $100,000 in damages, your compensation would be reduced to $90,000.

It’s important to remember that everyone traveling on Florida roadways has a duty to act with care and follow traffic laws to help prevent accidents and keep themselves and others safe. Bicyclists should wear helmets, bright clothing, reflectors, and lights at night. They should also know and obey traffic signs and laws, observing the right of way and using hand signals to alert drivers to their impending movements.

How Long Do I Have to File A Bike Accident Claim?

The Civil Remedies Act also lowered the statute of limitations for personal injury claims from four to two years. It’s worth noting because of the time and resources required to prove fault in Florida, where outcomes depend on the evidence and assignment of liability for each party. If you were hurt in a bicycle accident, contact a Tampa personal injury attorney to initiate the claim process as soon as possible.

Potential Compensation in a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit

Man rides a bike outdoors in the park on a sunny day at sunset

Florida is a no-fault state. Drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP). So, if you are a cyclist hurt in a motor vehicle collision, you can use your PIP insurance to cover your damages and losses. If you don’t carry PIP, you can apply for coverage under someone in your home or the driver who hit you.

However, PIP only covers up to 80% of medical bills and 60% of lost wages. For individuals with severe or catastrophic injuries, the costs of medical care can present a significant financial burden. You can file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver in that case.

A successful bike accident claim can potentially result in the following types of compensation:

  • Economic damages: Compensation for actual financial losses, including medical bills, property damage, and lost wages
  • Non-economic damages: Compensation for non-financial losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of the enjoyment of life
  • Punitive damages are additional damages imposed on defendants who act with gross negligence, like intentionally running a cyclist off the road or driving while intoxicated.

Personal injury claims are resolved in two ways: negotiating a satisfactory settlement or litigating your case in court if you cannot resolve it. Our team is ready to take your case as far as necessary to reach a fair outcome. 

Schedule a Free Consultation to Find Out How Kogan & DiSalvo Can Help

Two people sitting at a desk with a computer reviewing a legal document

Bicycle accident claims are challenging. It takes a skilled and dedicated lawyer to build a compelling case. At Kogan & DiSalvo, we leverage our extensive resources to fight for your right to fair and reasonable compensation because bicycle accident injuries can be life-changing.

Having a compassionate Tampa personal injury lawyer on your side can make a big difference in reaching a favorable outcome. Contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation case review today. We work on a contingency basis, so there are no upfront legal fees.

Total reviews: 975 |

Average rating: 4.9

5

In the beginning of my case Amanda and Rachael took my information about my accident. They called me when needing more information regarding my case, found me the proper medical doctors for treatment, and followed up with my progress or other issues that occurred regarding my injuries. Later I was introduced to George Bakalaar who handled the rest of my case. I believe George, Macy, and Victoria were dedicated in helping me get the settlement I deserved.

5

The Absolute Best Personal Injury Attorneys Out There They Will Fight For You To Get What You Deserve And Will Take The Case To Trial If You Don’t Like What The Insurance Companies Are Trying To Settle The Case For These Are Honest Lawyers Who Say We Work For You I Had A Great Experience Me And My Mother Auto Accident The Best Lawyers In South Florida Hands Down!!!

5

I had a wonderful experience working with this team especially Mia, Amanda and Rick. They were very communicative and worked great together in getting the best outcome for me. Definitely a good camaraderie. I highly recommend Kogan and Disalvo team to everyone, they are supper professional and beneficial ! GREAT TEAM!

5

Was very happy with the way these attys help ed me especially Chiselle they were exactly what I wanted and needed . I would definitely recommend them anytime

5

Communication was great, explained process clearly, fast to respond.

5

Working with Kogan and DiSalvo and specifically Rachel and Jennifer was very satisfying and rewarding. They made the process very easy and answered all my questions. I truly recommend the law firm of Kogan and DiSalvo for anyone who requires their services.

5

Words cannot describe how grateful I am to have had such an amazing team on my case. Sam & Rachel really worked around the clock diligently to get me the best compensation for my injuries. I could not be happier with this firm. Thank you all for the amazing work. What a wonderful team!

5

Kogan & DiSalvo were excellent in assisting me after my car accident. Very attentive to my needs. Professional & courteous in all matters. I would recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.

5

Good lawyers to get the job done thanks to jay for handling my case your the best

5

Great job

5

Very professional, great communications, and successful results. A pleasure to work with all the staff.

5

Kogan & DeSalvo: A Stellar Legal Experience

I recently had the pleasure of working with Kogan & DeSalvo for a legal matter and I was thoroughly impressed. From the outset, Jay London’s expertise and dedication were evident. He patiently walked me through the entire process, ensuring I was informed and empowered every step of the way. His communication was outstanding, always available to address my concerns and answer any questions I had. I truly felt like a priority throughout the entire process.
Christina B, the paralegal, was equally remarkable. Her professionalism and efficiency were unparalleled. She handled all the administrative details seamlessly, allowing Jay to focus on the legal aspects of my case. She was always pleasant and approachable, making even the most mundane tasks feel manageable.
I wholeheartedly recommend Kogan & DeSalvo for anyone seeking exceptional legal representation. Jay’s legal acumen, coupled with Christina’s organizational talents, makes for a winning team. Thank you, Kogan & DeSalvo, for a truly positive experience during a challenging time!

5

One of the best firms I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.

5

The entire team did a great job with follow up and results. Special thanks to Tiffany!

5

I had to dismiss my prior attorney do to unprofessionalism, lack of follow up & inexperience. I decided to go with Ted DiSalvo with the Law Partnership of Kogan & DiSalvo. What a complete 180° difference! Not only is Ted highly experienced, but his Team is AMAZING! Everyone is super professional & caring!… THEY KNOW WHAT THEY’RE DOING! The best part is the follow-up and guidance! It’s a huge relief knowing your part of a team that truly cares about YOU and your individual situation.

Thanks Kogan & DiSalvo
GW🦈
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – 10 Stars!

5

(Translated by Google) I recommend this firm, lawyers helped me throughout the entire process of my accident and always thought about my well-being. Totally satisfied and grateful with the service.

(Original)
Recomiendo esta firma abogados me ayudaron en todo el proceso de mi accidente y siempre pensaron en mi bienestar. Totalmente satisfecha y agradecida con el servicio.

5

(Translated by Google) Excellent company I recommend them 100 percent

(Original)
Excelente compañía los recomiendo 100 por ciento

5

I’m glad that I used Kogan And Desalvo. They truly made me feel like I was family. Very easy to talk to you about anything you needed help with. I especially thank Jay London, esq and Samantha Juerakhan The paralegal to Jay London, and his amazing team. They made this very easy and fast. Love these guys and ladies. 5 star team all the way🥳🥳🥳💚

5

It took a while, but the results were well worth the wait. My attorney J London was excellent. And his associate Gisseiie, they were the best

5

Very nice people so professional and they keep you posted of how your case is going.

  • By providing your phone number and/or email, you agree to receive text messages and/or emails containing direct communication with your legal team, firm updates, and monthly newsletters from Kogan and DiSalvo. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Privacy Policy.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Our Locations

If you are injured and unable to come to us,
our attorney will come to you - there is no charge for us to do so.