Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
The weather in Florida is excellent for a wide range of outdoor activities, and bike riding is one that many people enjoy throughout the year. However, many bicycling enthusiasts are aware that there is a significant risk of bicycle accidents in South Florida. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that there are more than 8,400 bike collisions statewide, leading to around 230 fatalities and 7,900 injured victims. Of these bicycle accidents, almost one-third – 2,545 – occur in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach Counties.
Helmets are highly effective in preventing and reducing head injuries in bike collisions, but there are many other ways to protect yourself. With the right strategy, you can avoid crashes or mitigate the harm from Miami bicycle accidents. Here are a few options to consider:
Your Bike Riding Wardrobe
You do not need to invest in specialized bicycling gear, and many of the basics can be found in your closet or purchased. It is wise to wear long pants that fit close to the body, without being too tight, so you can move freely. Thicker materials are best, such as denim or even leather. Wear a long-sleeved shirt whenever possible.
You can also purchase biking gear with special features, intended for more frequent and intense use. There are reflective tapes and materials that are sown onto or woven into fabrics, enhancing visibility to other motorists.
Padding for Injury-Prone Areas
The elbows, knees, and hips are vulnerable to injuries in a bike crash, mainly because of the secondary impact. Almost all riders will be tossed from the bicycle in a collision, and these are the parts of the body that can suffer the most. Consider purchasing elbow and knee pads, and you might look into bicycle shorts that have padding on the hips.
Specialized Equipment
There are laws in Florida requiring reflectors, which are standard for most bicycles. State, county, and local regulations also mandate having lights at night. Some equipment that may not be required could still be effective for protecting you from accidents, such as:
- Rearview mirrors, which you can install on the handlebars to see traffic and objects behind you
- A bell or horn to indicate your presence, knowing that visibility is a major risk factor for bike crashes
- Turn indicators that are battery-powered to let other road users know about upcoming maneuvers
- An inflatable vest, which acts like a car’s airbag to deploy in the event of a crash
Our Miami Bicycle Accidents Attorneys Will Guide You
As you can see from this overview, there are many ways you can protect yourself from bike crashes beyond the helmet. If you were involved in a collision, you can trust our team at Gerson & Schwartz, PA, to assist with your legal remedies. Please contact us at (305) 371-6000 or via our website to schedule a free consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer who will explain your rights. We can meet with you at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.
