How Safe Is Cycling In Florida Right Now?
Mark A. Steinberg
Personal Injury
When the COVID-19 lockdown took place last year, people all across the United States decided to take up cycling. They bought bikes and began riding to lose weight and keep their bodies in peak form. Many individuals might have given up the activity by now, but wouldn't you know it, the pandemic is still a thing. Sure, businesses like gyms are re-opened, but lots of folks don't want to go to them yet. They fear getting sick by gathering in these places with others. People have heard how bad the symptoms of COVID-19 are, and nobody wants to deal with them. Plus, this virus claims lives each and every day. Thus, many citizens would rather stick to themselves on their bikes than get gym memberships and take chances of dying. To each, their own is what we always say, and if that is what a Port Charlotte resident wants to do, so be it.
The Sunshine State is an excellent place for biking. It is usually nice and sunny around here, except for when the occasional hurricane comes rolling through. Additionally, it doesn't get too hot because of the coastal breeze. As such, bicyclists can get workouts in or take in the sights, pretty much, whenever they like. Sounds great, doesn't it?
However, before jumping on your bike and taking off, it is important to note that Florida can be a dangerous place for biking too. Why? Because bicyclists often share the roadways with passenger vehicles, commercial trucks, and motorcycles, that's why. Even when riders do everything perfectly, they could still become involved in accidents. All it takes is for one driver to slip up for an incident to come to fruition.
Bicycle Crash Statistics
Unfortunately, car/bicycle accidents happen more often than many people believe in Florida. According to the FLHSMV, the state accounted for 6,664 bicycle crashes in 2019, and they caused...
• 774 Incapacitating Injuries
• 5,455 Other Injuries
• And 156 Fatalities
Meanwhile, in 2018, the numbers were as follows, 6,590 crashes, 160 deaths, 838 incapacitating injuries, and 5,345 other injuries. These figures back up our claim about the roads here being dangerous for bicyclists, but there are other things people need to know too. Hence, interested parties should stick around and read on to learn more.
Types Of Injuries People Can Get In Bicycle Accidents
While it is true that wrongful deaths can arise because of bicycle crashes, for these purposes, we will be strictly discussing injuries. No two accidents are the same, and, as such, wounds vary from one situation to the next. Some people might sustain broken arms or legs in the events, while others receive burns and traumatic brain injuries. Partial or full paralysis may enter the picture for some folks as well.
This list could genuinely go on and on, but the point is that bike riders can get seriously hurt in incidents with cars, trucks, and SUVs. Ambulance rides, hospital stays, and surgeries can become parts of the equation, but so can recurring doctor visits, physical therapy, and prescriptions. Can't you just see the dollar signs adding up? Yet, what choice do injured bicyclists have? They must pay for the things out of pocket to get better and recover, or do they?
If a negligent driver causes a person's bicycle crash, the victim can hire an accident attorney to fight for the compensation they deserve. The legal system may not get them rich, but it can ensure they have the funding they need for medical bills, property damage, and more. So, if you have been or get injured in a bicycle crash because of someone else's negligence, please, don't hesitate to give our firm a call.