Bicycle accidents may not be as common as other traffic-related collisions, but they do tend to cause a disproportionate number of fatalities and injuries. According to the Crash Dashboard operated by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there are almost 6,700 total bicycle accidents statewide every year; in 95% of them, at least one person is killed or injured. It does not take a degree in physics to know that the person on the bike will typically suffer the most devastating harm. If you were hurt in a bicycle accident, you may wonder about your legal options versus the at-fault motorist.
Fortunately, you do have remedies for recovering compensation, and they fall under state auto insurance laws. Florida is a no-fault jurisdiction, so motorists are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance to cover their own injury-related losses. These requirements impact your rights as a victim, and a Miami bicycle accidents lawyer can explain the details. Answers to common questions about Florida PIP insurance in bike collisions may also be useful.
What Does “No Fault” Mean?