Adam Franzen Injury Attorney in Fort Lauderdale Discusses Why Bicyclists Need a Lawyer if They Are in a Bicycle Accident

Fort Lauderdale, FL, June 22, 2016 (Newswire.com) - ​​​​​Why does someone need a lawyer if they are in a bicycle accident?

The Sunshine State has long been the most lethal in the nation for bicyclists. There’s a litany of reasons why, among them:

• wide and fast roadways
• lack of safety education
• bad drivers
• under-equipped bicyclists
• yearlong riding weather
• lagging infrastructure and laws

The powers-that-be realize it’s a problem. Many safety advocates, planners, lawmakers and law enforcement are patching together solutions. But in the meantime, if a bicyclist is involved in an accident, the best thing is for the bicyclist to contact an attorney to determine their rights.

If one is involved in a bicycle accident with a motorist, or any other individual, it is important they are prepared to protect their rights.  Often, an excellent attorney and the legal system can get compensation for their injuries, medical bills, lost wages, bicycle and related equipment damage, and even their pain and suffering.

Bicycle injury laws in Florida

Bicycle crashes may have ramifications in traffic court, criminal court or civil court. There are time deadlines on most claims with which one must comply or their rights could be terminated.

Bicycle accident victims should call  Adam G. Franzen of the Franzen Law Firm ASAP to discuss one's rights in all three courts. Mr. Franzen has expertise in bicycle personal injury cases, and he has handled numerous bicycle crash claims in the past.

There are many Florida laws that pertain to riding a bicycle in Florida and how drivers need to interact with Florida bicyclists. After a Florida bicycle accident, it is important that victims  understand how these laws could impact their claim for damages.

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions after being involved in a Florida bicycle accident.

1. Do Bicycles Have to Follow The Same Traffic Rules as Cars?

Yes. A bicyclist must follow the traffic rules common to all drivers and must also obey regulations adopted specially for bicycles.

1. Do Bicycles Have To Have a Light?

Florida law states that a bicycle operated between sunset and sunrise must be equipped with a lamp on the front exhibiting a white light visible from 500 feet to the front, and both a red reflector and a lamp on the rear exhibiting a red light visible from 600 feet to the rear.

1. Are Bicyclists Required to Wear Helmets?

Although adults are not required to wear helmets, a bicycle rider or passenger under 16 years of age must wear a bicycle helmet that is properly fitted, fastened securely, and meets a nationally recognized standard.

1. Can Bicyclists Wear Headphones While Riding?

No. Florida law prohibits a cyclist from wearing a headset, headphones or listening device, other than a hearing aid, while riding.

1. What Side of the Road Should Bicyclists Ride on?

A cyclist on a roadway must ride on the side for his direction of travel. Riding against traffic increases crash risk.

1. To Avoid a Florida Bicycle Accident, Can a Bicyclist Ride on the Sidewalk?

Sidewalks are not designed for bicycle speeds, but bicycle use is allowed except where prohibited by local ordinance. Since a bicyclist riding on a sidewalk has the rights of a pedestrian, he may ride in either direction. A cyclist riding on a sidewalk must yield the right of way to a pedestrian and must give an audible warning before passing a pedestrian.

If one is a victim of bicycle injuries in Florida, they are recommended to contact Adam Franzen today.

There are many other questions one may have regarding the bicycle laws in Florida. If involved in a bicycle accident, call Adam Franzen at (954) 462-5790. Visit his website at  http://franzenfirm.com/faq/​  to see frequently asked questions about bicycle accidents and learn more about how he can help with bicycle and other personal injury cases.

Source: The Franzen Law Firm