Cycling is a popular form of transportation and recreation in Miami, known for its year-round sunshine and vibrant outdoor culture.
Whether commuting to work, enjoying a leisurely ride through parks, or participating in Miami’s cycling events, residents and tourists alike rely on bicycles to experience the city in an eco-friendly and active way.
However, Miami's busy streets and high traffic levels can pose significant risks for cyclists, making bicycle accidents a serious concern. At Raposo & Lukacs, we represent individuals who have suffered serious injuries in bicycle accidents, often due to the negligence of motorists who fail to drive safely or grant bikers respect on roadways.
Injured in a bicycle accident?Contact us today for a free case review! Call (305) 575-2177 now to speak with a Miami bicycle accident lawyer.
Common Causes of Miami Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents often result from circumstances entirely outside the cyclist's control. Common causes include:
Distracted driving (using cell phones)
Impaired driving due to alcohol and/or drugs (drunk driving)
Failure to yield the right of way
Speeding
Reckless driving
Drivers drifting into designated bike paths
Miami’s tourist popularity can also lead to collisions involving inexperienced or unfamiliar drivers. Lack of designated bike lanes or road-sharing awareness can also increase the likelihood of accidents.
Florida Bicycle Laws & Cyclist Rights
Cyclists in Florida have specific legal protections designed to keep them safe on the road. Understanding these laws can help you assert your rights if you are involved in an accident.
Key Florida Laws That Protect Cyclists:
Same Rights as Motorists – Bicycles are considered vehicles, meaning cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers.
Bike Lane Laws – When bike lanes are available, cyclists must use them unless avoiding an obstacle or making a turn.
Safe Passing Law – Motorists must leave at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist.
Helmet Requirements – Riders under 16 years old must wear a helmet, but helmets are recommended for all ages.
Responsibilities of Drivers When Sharing the Road:
Yielding to Cyclists – Drivers must yield to cyclists at intersections and when making turns.
Avoiding "Dooring" – Motorists should check for cyclists before opening car doors.
No Blocking Bike Lanes – Parking or driving in bike lanes is illegal and dangerous.
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
If you're involved in a bike accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen any legal claim you may file.
Essential Actions to Take at the Accident Scene:
Call 911 – Always report the accident, even if injuries seem minor.
Get Contact Information – Exchange details with the driver and any witnesses.
Take Photos – Capture images of your bike, injuries, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
Do Not Admit Fault – Even casual apologies can be used against you later.
Why Documenting Injuries and Medical Treatment is Crucial:
Hidden Injuries – Some injuries, like concussions, may not appear immediately.
Medical Records as Evidence – Doctor visits, X-rays, and prescriptions help prove injury claims.
Insurance & Legal Claims – Detailed medical documentation can help secure fair compensation.
Proving Liability in a Bicycle Accident Case
To win a bicycle accident claim, you need to prove that another party was negligent.
Common Forms of Negligence in Bicycle Accidents:
Distracted Driving – Using a phone, eating, or adjusting controls while driving.
Failure to Yield – Not stopping at intersections or turning in front of cyclists.
Speeding & Reckless Driving – Increases the severity of bicycle accidents.
How Evidence Helps Prove Fault:
Traffic Cameras & Dashcams – Can show exactly what happened before the crash.
Witness Statements – Independent witnesses can support your version of events.
Police Reports – Official documentation can confirm important accident details.
Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road due to minimal physical protection compared to vehicle occupants. While a helmet can reduce the risk of severe head injury, a cyclist’s body is exposed to direct impact during a collision.
Bicyclists often share the road with larger, faster-moving vehicles, which significantly increases the potential severity of an accident. From high-impact collisions to secondary injuries from being thrown onto the pavement, the consequences are often devastating for riders.
Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents frequently result in severe injuries, which may include:
Emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
These injuries can require extensive treatment, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care, not to mention the emotional and financial toll on victims and their families.
What Damages May Be Available?
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation to help you recover.
Potential damages can include:
Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation
Loss of wages and diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional
Property damage to your bicycle and personal belongings
Loss of enjoyment of life
Our Miami law firm understands the complex nature of bicycle accident cases and addresses all aspects of your losses to pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Your recovery matters—let us help! If you’ve been hurt in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. Contact us at (305) 575-2177or fill out our online form for a free consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Bicycle Accidents in Miami
What should I do if the driver leaves the scene of the accident?
Report the hit-and-run to the police immediately and try to remember details like the car’s make, model, and plate number. Look for witnesses or nearby cameras. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. If the driver isn’t found, a lawyer can help you explore compensation options, including uninsured motorist coverage.
Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes! Florida law only requires helmets for cyclists under 16. Not wearing one doesn’t prevent you from filing a claim, though insurance companies may argue it worsened your injuries. A lawyer can help challenge this and fight for full compensation.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Florida?
You generally have two years from the accident date to file a claim. If the accident resulted in a wrongful death, the deadline may also be two years. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 50% or more at fault, you may not be eligible for compensation. A lawyer can help minimize fault assigned to you.
Do I need a lawyer for my bicycle accident claim?
You’re not required to have a lawyer, but it can improve your chances of fair compensation. Lawyers handle negotiations, gather evidence, and protect your rights against insurance companies trying to minimize payouts. Without legal help, you may settle for less than you deserve.
“Professional, caring, and always responsive—this team secured a great settlement during a difficult time. Grateful for their support!”
D. Conra
“Dedicated Advocacy for the Best Results”
“Raposa & Lukacs work tirelessly to secure the best outcome for their clients. Highly recommended for anyone in need of legal services!”
Justin P.
“A True Fighter for His Clients”
“John goes the extra mile to fight for what you deserve, keeping you informed every step of the way. Highly recommended!”
Octavio C.
“Trustworthy Support Every Step of the Way”
“A seamless, caring, and professional experience from start to finish. Grateful for their dedication and support throughout the process.”
J.C.
“Professionalism with a Personal Touch”
“José and Cassandra provided exceptional support, creating a family-like environment. Grateful for Dr. B’s help in restoring my back after the accident!”
Ricardo R.
“Dedicated, Thoughtful, and Fierce Advocates”
“Raposo & Lukacs fought for our family and won. Thoughtful, thorough, and professional—John, Jose, and Cassandra truly go above and beyond!”
John P.
“Highly Recommended for Trusted Legal Services”
“Very satisfied with the service and would highly recommend this firm to family or friends for their professionalism and dedication.”
Diana F.
“Exceptional Service & Professionalism Throughout”
“A seamless and professional experience from start to finish. This firm provided exceptional care, support, and expertise throughout the entire process.”
Your legal battle isn’t just another case to us—it’s your future, your financial security, and your peace of mind. We take a personal stake in every case we handle, fighting with determination to deliver the justice and compensation you deserve.
Powerful Representation
We don’t handle minor claims—we focus on complex, high-stakes cases where the results matter most. Our firm is built on the principles of aggressive litigation, tactical strategy, and an unwavering commitment to winning.
When Everything Is on the Line, We Deliver.
High-value cases demand precision, experience, and fearless representation. We take on the toughest legal battles, standing firm against powerful opponents to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
Relentless Advocacy. Proven Results.
When the stakes are high, you need a legal team that won’t flinch. We are aggressive, strategic, and relentless in our pursuit of justice. Our track record speaks for itself—when we take on a case, we fight to win.
What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident?
When injured in a bicycle accident due to another’s negligence, do the following to document your bicycle accident claim properly:
Immediately call the police
Get all the required medical attention you deem necessary
Get your documents together, including pictures of the accident scene and injuries
Gather the names and contact information of any potential witnesses
Contact the experienced bicycle attorneys at Raposo & Lukacs for guidance and support
Why Turn to Raposo & Lukacs?
Our team understands the pain and uncertainty that follow a bicycle accident. We are here to help you rebuild your life after devastating injuries. With a deep understanding of Florida’s traffic laws and a proven record of accomplishment and success, we can guide you through the legal process with empathy and professionalism.
We provide personalized representation tailored to your needs, whether negotiating with insurance companies or advocating for you in court. Our proven trial lawyers can take on the legal burden to give you the time and space to heal. Let us protect your rights and fight to secure maximum compensation.
