Florida is a natural paradise for cyclists. Except it isn’t. While It has ideal year-round weather (a bit hot in the summer), perfect topography, and an active population, bicycle crash statistics tell a different, sobering story. Florida is one of the most dangerous states in the county to ride. In 2021, Florida had the most cycling deaths of any state and the highest rate of fatality per 100,000 persons.
This must change. Increasing investment in bicycle infrastructure, positive legal reform (including a VRU law in July 2024), and a growing cycling community bodes better for the future.
In 2023, Bike Law moved its national headquarters to Florida to help address the safety crisis and contribute to the solution. We are proud to live and work here.
Representation in Florida Bicycle Crashes
At Bike Law, we are committed to advocating for injured cyclists and pushing for safer bike laws across Florida. Our Florida bike crash law firm, Wilborn Law, uses its 25 years of experience led by Peter Wilborn and Rachael Maney, blend personal experience, legal chops, and a genuine passion for cycling into every case and initiative we undertake.
Peter Wilborn: Representing Cyclists Since 1998
Peter Wilborn, the founder of Bike Law, has a personal connection to cycling that extends beyond his professional life. Having experienced a bike tragedy within his own family, Peter recognized the acute need for legal representation that understands and deeply cares about the cycling community. This realization propelled him to dedicate his law practice to Bike Law, focusing on the rights and safety of cyclists. He’s ridden most every day for almost 50 years; his represented injured cyclists for over 25.
Peter has represented almost 1,000 injured cyclists in all types of crashes, for all types of people, for all manner of riders. His guiding principle is that everyone who rides is a cyclist, and every cyclist deserves protection. His is licensed to practice law in Florida, DC, Maryland and South Carolina. He has also been admitted to bring cases in many others states throughout the country.
Beyond the courtroom, Peter has also taught law enforcement on how to investigate bicycle crashes better, reflecting his holistic approach to bicycle safety and advocacy.
In a significant shift from legal industry norms, Peter and Bike Law have stopped referring to incidents as “bicycle accidents,” instead adopting the term “bicycle crashes” to acknowledge that these are not random, unavoidable events. This change underscores the law firm’s commitment to accountability and prevention.
Rachael Maney: Championing Legal Reform and Cycling Safety
Rachael Maney, the Director of the Bike Law Network and the Bike Law Foundation, is pivotal in steering efforts toward making cycling safer, more accessible, and enjoyable. Her work encompasses a broad range of activities, from advocating for legal reforms to increase cyclist protection to partnering with industry leaders to promote safety.
Rachael’s advocacy extends to the legislative arena, where she works closely with advocates and legislators to forge better protections for bike riders. Her voice has become a beacon of reason and compassion in the cycling community, whether addressing an advocacy summit, partnering with safety vendors, or leading the Bike Law Ambassadors in local efforts.
But it is her dedication to injured clients (as a victim of a cycling crash herself) that is her crowning strength. Rachael is there for cyclists and their loved ones on their worst days, offering a blend of tenacious advocacy and genuine empathy.
WHY HIRE A FLORIDA BIKE CRASH ATTORNEY?
Hiring a Florida bicycle accident lawyer can make a crucial difference in protecting your rights and maximizing your chances of a fair recovery after an accident. Here’s why:
- Dealing with Insurance Companies
- Negotiating Power: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney understands how to counter their tactics and negotiate a settlement maximizing your compensation.
- Fighting Denials: Insurance companies may dispute liability or undervalue your injuries. A lawyer advocates for you and fights against unfair denials.
- Policy Complexity: Navigating insurance policies and their fine print can be daunting. An attorney deciphers the terms, ensuring you receive all entitled benefits.
- Gathering Evidence and Proving Your Case
- Thorough Investigation: A lawyer can investigate the accident, collect evidence (police reports, witness statements, medical records), and consult with experts to strengthen your claim.
- Establishing Liability: Florida follows a comparative negligence system. An attorney can establish the other party’s fault and minimize any attempts to reduce your compensation by alleging you were partially at fault.
- Managing Medical Bills and Liens
- Future Expenses: Serious injuries often incur significant medical expenses, including future treatment and rehabilitation. A lawyer helps ensure you receive compensation not just for current costs but also for anticipated needs.
- Navigating Liens: If you receive treatment under health insurance or government programs like Medicare, they may place liens on your settlement to recoup their costs. An attorney can work to negotiate these liens favorably.
- Assessing the Full Value of Your Claim
- Beyond Immediate Costs: Lawyers understand the true cost of your injuries goes beyond medical bills. They will factor in lost income, future earning potential, pain and suffering, and long-term impact on your quality of life.
- Maximizing Compensation: An experienced attorney will aim for a settlement that fully reflects the physical, financial, and emotional losses you’ve suffered.
- Navigating the Legal System
- Meeting Deadlines: Filing personal injury lawsuits in Florida has a strict statute of limitations. An attorney ensures all deadlines are met, protecting your right to pursue a claim.
- Courtroom Representation: If your case goes to trial, having a seasoned litigator by your side is invaluable for the best possible outcome.
When It’s Particularly Important to Hire a Lawyer
- Serious Injuries: The more severe your injuries, the more complex your claim and the higher the potential compensation. An attorney helps you navigate this process.
- Disputed Liability: If the other party denies fault or tries to blame you, having an advocate in your corner is essential.
- Negotiation Stalemate: If insurance companies refuse to offer fair compensation, an attorney’s pressure can break those logjams.
Finding the Right Lawyer
- Bike Accident Experience: Look for a lawyer with a proven track record handling bicycle accident cases specifically. They understand the unique dynamics of these incidents.
- Referral or Reputation: Get referrals from cycling organizations or check reliable attorney rating sites.
- Free Consultation: Many personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations. Utilize this to assess their suitability and comfort level.
Remember: A bicycle accident can turn your life upside down. A qualified Florida bicycle accident lawyer will fight to secure the resources you need for the best possible recovery, both physically and financially.
How Do You Report Your Florida Bike Crash?
If you’re involved in a bike crash in Florida, here’s how to report the incident and reach out for assistance:
- Prioritize your safety and health. Move to a safe location and call 911 for medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, some bike injuries might not be immediately apparent, so it’s better to be safe.
- Gather as much information as you can at the accident scene. This includes taking photos of your bicycle, any vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries you have. Collect contact and insurance information from any drivers involved, as well as names and contact details of witnesses.
- Notify law enforcement so they can come to the scene and create a police report. This document is crucial for any bicycle crash victim wanting to take legal action or make an insurance claim.
After addressing your immediate medical needs and ensuring you have all the necessary information from the scene, contact a Florida bike crash lawyer for legal advice and support.
We’ve made it easy for you to get in touch and start the consultation process with our Bike Accident Report Form. It’s straightforward, and completing it takes only a few minutes.
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