Bicycle Accidents at Night

Riding a bicycle at night along the road can be more dangerous than daytime riding. Bicyclists can take some steps to keep themselves safe in the dark, but these steps may be not be enough. An irresponsible driver who causes a bicycle accident at night can severely injure a bicyclist. These negligent drivers should be held accountable for such harm. Miami bicycle accident attorney Robert Dixon assists victims of these collisions in pursuing the proper legal claim against responsible parties. Bicyclists deserve a safe space to travel, even at night. When a motorist, or another party, fails to take reasonable measures to ensure that safety, they are legally liable. The Law Offices of Robert Dixon represents victims, as well as families who have lost loved ones, in a South Florida nighttime bicycle accident. If you’ve been involved in a bike collision in Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach County, please call the lawyers at our office today or contact us online to find out more about your potential case.

Under Florida Statute Sect. 316.2065, Florida bicyclists are required to have lighting on their bicycles when riding at night. From sunset to sunrise, bikes must have a light that is visible from 500 feet in front and 600 feet from the back. Reflectors on bicycles are optional in the state, but advisable for extra safety. It is also recommended that bikers dress in bright or reflective clothing during nighttime rides. These safety measures help drivers see bicyclists better to avoid a collision.

At night, bicyclists are more at risk of being hit by a car for a variety of reasons. Drivers have more limited visibility, and so drivers have less time to react. Drivers may also be fatigued and are more likely to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Factors like lack of streetlights, driver inattentiveness, as well as speeding can also play a part in bicycle accidents at night.

A bicyclist following all the rules while riding at night can still be struck by a negligent driver. A driver is negligent when he or she breaches the duty of reasonable care owed to those around on the road, causing that person’s injuries or death. Unfortunately, bicyclists are at a higher risk of life-threatening or fatal injuries than those travelling in a more enclosed vehicle. In fact, Florida leads the nation for highest bicycle-related fatalities among the states.

In order for a victim to receive compensation in a personal injury case, they must suffer some sort of damages as well. Most injuries come with costs that far exceed any applicable insurance benefits. As such, these victims may be entitled to damages in the form of past or anticipated medical expenses, lost income from time missed from work, any changes in their ability to make a living, as well as compensation for pain and suffering. When a victim dies as a result of a bicycle collision, certain relatives may file a wrongful death claim against the negligent party. These family members may recover any outstanding medical costs related to the deceased injuries from the accident, as well as burial and funeral expenses, and loss of support. People who suffer injuries during bicycle accidents at night are advised to contact an experienced lawyer who can help maximize compensation.

Many South Florida residents ride bicycles to travel to work, exercise, or just as a hobby. There is no reason these bicyclists should be able to take nighttime rides without being injured. Unfortunately, too many drivers fail to properly share the roads with bikers, and serious collisions with accompanying injuries often result. Miami attorney Robert Dixon is dedicated to making sure victims of these types of collisions receive the compensation they are entitled to for their injuries. If you have questions regarding your legal rights and options after a nighttime bicycle accident, please contact the lawyers at the Law Offices of Robert Dixon online or at 877.499.4878 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation to find out more about how we can help.