A careless driver runs a red light, and your bike ride turns into a trip to the ER. Now you’re facing injuries, medical bills, and a wrecked bicycle. At Souder Law, we fight aggressively for cyclists hit by negligent drivers. With over $40 million recovered for injury victims, we don’t back down. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in South Florida, we’re here to make sure justice is pursued relentlessly.
What are bicycle accidents?
Bicycle accidents are a growing concern across Florida and the U.S. Nationally, over 1,000 cyclists die and more than 130,000 are injured in crashes every year. In Florida, the problem is even worse: our state consistently ranks among the deadliest for cyclists. With the rising use of bicycles, e-bikes, and crowded roadways, the risks continue to climb.
A bicycle accident occurs when a cyclist is injured due to a collision, unsafe road conditions, or mechanical failure. These incidents often involve negligent drivers who fail to yield, make unsafe turns, or drive distracted. However, not all crashes involve cars; cyclists can also be injured due to potholes, poor signage, defective bike parts, or even collisions with pedestrians. Given the lack of physical protection compared to a vehicle, these accidents frequently result in severe injuries or worse, demanding immediate legal action.
Common causes of bicycle accidents:
- A driver turns right across the bike lane, cutting off the cyclist
- A motor vehicle rear-ends a bicycle at an intersection or in traffic
- A driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of a cyclist (“dooring”)
- A vehicle pulls out into the road without seeing an approaching cyclist
- Distracted or impaired driving, including texting or drunk driving
- Poorly maintained roads, potholes, or dangerous debris
- Defective bicycle parts or faulty repairs
- Cyclists colliding with pedestrians, scooters, or other cyclists
- Sudden animal encounters that cause a cyclist to fall
- Running stop signs or red lights (by either the driver or the cyclist)
How we handle your bicycle accident claim
At Souder Law, we immediately begin by investigating the accident scene, obtaining police reports, securing witness statements, and collecting surveillance or dashcam footage. We work with accident reconstruction experts to determine exactly how the crash happened and who was at fault, especially when insurance companies try to shift blame onto the cyclist. We also gather your medical records and consult with doctors to fully understand the scope of your injuries.
Once we’ve built a strong bicycle accident case, we handle all communication with the insurance companies so they can’t twist your words or pressure you into a lowball settlement. We aggressively negotiate for full compensation, covering your medical bills, future treatment, lost wages, bike repairs, and pain and suffering. If they won’t settle fairly, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Damages available in bicycle accidents
When you’re injured in a bicycle accident, the first step is identifying who’s legally responsible. At Souder Law, we conduct a thorough liability analysis, examining negligence, road conditions, bike defects, or other contributing factors. Whether the at-fault party is a careless driver, a government agency, or a repair shop, we build a case that targets all liable parties.
Finally, we pursue every form of damages you’re entitled to under Florida law, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage (bike repair or replacement)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members)
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation as long as you are found to be 50% or less responsible. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but deemed 20% at fault, you would still receive $80,000.
Steps to take immediately after a bicycle accident:
- Call 911 to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance
- Move to a safe location if you’re able, away from traffic or further danger
- Take photos of your injuries, bike damage, vehicles, and road conditions
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the driver or any involved parties
- Get contact details from any eyewitnesses before they leave the scene
- Request a police report and ensure the officer includes your statement
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
- Avoid making statements to insurance adjusters without legal representation
- Preserve all damaged gear, your bicycle, and clothing as evidence
- Contact an experienced bicycle accident attorney at Souder Law right away
Find out what your case is worth (at no cost)
Souder Law is a relentless, client-focused personal injury firm based in Jupiter and Palm Beach County, fighting for bicycle accident victims across South Florida and the Treasure Coast. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means it costs you absolutely nothing to pursue justice: we don’t get paid unless you win. Our team will evaluate your case, investigate liability, and help you understand your full compensation potential. Contact us today for a free case review and let us fight for what you’re owed.
