Cycling has become increasingly popular as a mode of transportation and recreation in recent years. Many individuals choose to ride bicycles to save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and promote physical fitness. However, with the increasing number of cyclists on the roadways, the risk of bicycle accidents has also increased. This is true not only in Lakeland but also in the rest of Florida.
In the event of a bicycle accident, it’s essential to have the support of an experienced Lakeland bicycle accident lawyer to provide the aggressive representation it takes to obtain the compensation that you deserve. That’s precisely what you’ll get when you turn to the law firm of Osborne & Francis.
Our team of legal experts has years of experience helping people hurt in bicycle accidents. We’ll do whatever we can to help you obtain every dollar of compensation you have coming. If you want to schedule a free case evaluation, contact us online or call (561) 264-6238.
Video Transcript
So you've been in a car accident. What happens next? There are many things that you should do but here are the three most important:
Number One: See a doctor immediately.
A broken bone is easy to see, but some injuries are not. The most common injuries from car accidents happen in the neck, back, or head. The only way to diagnose and treat them is by seeing a doctor. A doctor can help ease the pain, provide medication, reassure you of how your injury may impact your daily life, and tell you what not to do to make it worse.
A visit to the doctor can also give you legally protected time off to recover and rest your body after an accident, and it documents and provides the evidence you may need for your case. Even a five-mile-per-hour car accident can cause a serious injury. So whether you've had a severe accident or a minor collision, see a doctor. And if you don't have medical insurance, let us know and we'll make sure that you receive the proper care.
Number Two: Write everything down.
Even if it seems small, during times of stress or injury it is common to forget the little details. Make sure you keep note of the pain that you're in. With neck, back, and head injuries, sometimes simple activities such as walking up the stairs or picking up a toddler may cause severe pain.
You may not be sleeping well at night. Documenting how much you sleep and how often you wake up due to pain is also very important. And lastly, if you have any cuts or bruises, take daily photos as you heal. This will provide visual evidence of the injuries that you've suffered.
Number Three: Do not speak to an insurance company until you've spoken to a lawyer.
Please understand that the insurance adjuster works for a billion-dollar corporation and not for you. Their interests are solely for their insurance company, and their goal is to provide you with the least amount of financial settlement as quickly as possible. When you do speak with them, remember they will record the conversation. Why do they do this? Because they've been trained to ask questions that may confuse you. So talk to us before you talk to them.
So remember: See a doctor, document everything, and call us before calling the insurance company for your free private consultation. We are here for you. Real tough lawyers fighting real tough issues.
Florida Bicycle Accident Statistics
Florida consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous states for cyclists, with high numbers of bicycle accidents and fatalities. There were more than 5,900 bicycle accidents in Florida in 2021, resulting in more than 5,500 injuries. Florida bicycle accidents also resulted in 159 fatalities. Lakeland came in at No. 10 on this list of the most dangerous cities in the U.S. to ride a bike.
Florida Bicycle & Helmet Laws
In Florida, cyclists have specific rights and responsibilities under the law. Florida law requires cyclists to obey traffic laws, such as stopping at stop signs and traffic signals, signaling turns, and riding in the correct direction on the roadway.
Additionally, Florida law requires cyclists under the age of 16 to wear helmets while riding. However, while not mandatory, it is strongly recommended that all cyclists wear helmets to reduce the risk of serious head injury in the event of an accident.
Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Lakeland, Florida
Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons, and understanding the root cause of an accident is critical in determining who is liable for the damages. Some common causes of bicycle accidents in Lakeland include:
Bicycle accidents can result in severe injuries, ranging from minor bruises to life-threatening injuries. Some common injuries associated with bike accidents include:
Head and brain injuries: Head injuries are among the most severe injuries cyclists can sustain in an accident. These injuries can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries.
Spinal cord injuries: Depending on the injury's severity and location, a spinal cord injury could result in partial or permanent paralysis.
Fractures and broken bones: Cyclists are vulnerable to fractures and broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and pelvis.
Road rash: Road rash is a common injury that occurs when the cyclist's skin makes contact with the roadway during an accident, resulting in abrasions, lacerations, and bruises.
The Lawsuit Process
If you’ve suffered an injury in a bicycle accident due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. The lawsuit process typically involves the following steps:
Consultation
The first step is to schedule a consultation with an experienced Lakeland bicycle accident lawyer. They can evaluate your case and advise you on the legal options available, and you can ask whatever questions you like.
Investigation
Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine liability.
Negotiation
Your lawyer will then negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement offer. This offer will cover your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
An experienced lawyer can navigate the legal system and protect your rights.
Investigation and evidence gathering
An attorney can investigate the accident, collect evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Negotiation skills
A skilled attorney can negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement covering your damages.
Trial experience
If the case goes to trial, an experienced attorney can represent you in court and fight for your rights.
Erica F.
"Best personal injury attorney around, I could not be happier! I was seriously injured in a car accident and Osborne and Francis helped me through the entire process. I was blown away by how knowledgeable the staff and attorneys are at this incredible law firm. I would not hesitate to recommend this law firm to friends and family!"
T. Andrews
“Attorneys Greg Francis and Ryan Fletcher at Osborne & Francis Law Firm represented me in my personal injury case.The defendant drew a line in the sand and was adamant on a settlement amount I was almost willing to accept. After the dust settled and the smoke cleared, we settled for 3 times that amount!!! When they say ‘Real Tough Lawyers,’ they mean it.”
Alfred
Quick and fair resolution to a unique case. On advice of my own attorney, I engaged Joseph Osborne of Osborne & Francis of Boca Raton, FL. Mr. Osborne had considerable experience in cases such as mine and the results showed that. Mr. Osborne and his staff were very helpful, kept me up to date, and listened to my input. The settlement was very fair as far as I am concerned.
J. Davis
“I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer/ firm — everything was done professionally exactly how I wanted. Due to COVID my personal attorney Mr. Garcia was still able to make things work in a timely manner and he never made me feel like he wasn’t working. Overall I’m happy with how my case turned out and I would recommend him and this law firm to anyone. 100% satisfied.”
E. Holland
Dennis and the other Osborne & Francis staff were amazing! Our case was HUGE and required tender loving care. Everyone on our case did their part by putting all the puzzle pieces together. We were given step by step updates and put at ease when our nerves got the best of us. For every inquiry we made we received a timely response...You are appreciated!
C. Smith
“I am so thankful for EVERYONE, the entire staff at Osborne & Francis Law, for mentoring me through the mediation process with my hip replacement failures. I didn't realize how MUCH pressure they relieved me of by helping me deal with the reality of this traumatic time in my life, as it was OVER so quickly with a positive result. My family is grateful to have their mom HAPPY & FOCUSED on the future, rather than worrying over what happened in the past! FAST FORWARD, we are LIVING LIFE to the fullest once again!”
If you’ve suffered an injury in a bicycle accident that wasn’t your fault, the attorneys at Osborne & Francis are here to help. We have extensive experience representing cyclists who have suffered injuries due to someone else's negligence. We're committed to fighting for your rights and obtaining the compensation that you deserve.
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