Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Melbourne, FL

After a bicycle accident in Melbourne, FL, your first step should be to move to safety (if possible) and call 911. It is important to always involve the police, even for seemingly minor injuries. A police report is vital for insurance and any legal claim. Take photos of the accident, your bike, injuries, and the vehicle. Gather contact and insurance info from the driver and obtain witness names. Do not downplay your injuries and seek immediate medical attention, as some injuries emerge later. Avoid making statements about fault at the scene. Consulting an experienced Melbourne bicycle accident lawyer early ensures your rights are protected and preserves valuable evidence, which is crucial if your injuries worsen over time. Involving legal counsel helps secure compensation for medical costs, lost income, and long-term needs.

In Florida, no-fault insurance (PIP) applies to bicycle accidents if you own a car with insurance; your own policy pays up to $10,000 in medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault. If you don’t have PIP, you may be covered by a resident relative’s policy. If a negligent driver hit you, their liability insurance may cover additional damages. Injuries often exceed PIP limits, making your eligibility for further compensation through the driver’s insurance (bodily injury liability) or uninsured motorist coverage important. Pursue both avenues promptly. Insurance companies may delay or deny deserved benefits, so consultation with a knowledgeable attorney can maximize your recovery and navigate these complex claims effectively.

Yes, it’s common for symptoms like whiplash, internal injuries, or concussions to surface hours or days after a Melbourne bicycle crash. However, delaying medical treatment can seriously harm your case as insurance companies may argue your injuries weren’t accident-related. Insist on medical evaluation, even if you feel fine immediately after the crash, and attend all recommended follow-ups. Prompt documentation creates a clear link between your accident and resulting injuries. If new symptoms develop later, immediately update your medical providers and report changes. Comprehensive, timely medical records are your strongest evidence for fair compensation and our legal team ensures all injury impacts are documented and pursued.

Yes, you can still file a claim, even if you weren’t wearing a helmet. Florida law doesn’t require adult cyclists to wear helmets. Your compensation could be reduced if your injuries would clearly have been less severe with a helmet, but you still have strong rights to pursue damages.

Riding on major roads like US-1 in Melbourne does not restrict your rights. However, accidents on busy highways often involve more complex investigations including: police reports, multiple witnesses, and potentially greater damages. You still retain full rights to compensation under state law if the driver was negligent.

If the driver was uninsured or left the scene, your own car insurance (PIP, uninsured motorist coverage) may cover medical bills and lost wages. If you don’t have coverage, a claim may be possible through a resident relative’s policy or the Florida Crime Victim Compensation Program. Reach out for legal support to uncover all options.

You may recover medical costs, lost earnings, pain and suffering, bike repairs, future treatment, and disability compensation. Settlement value depends on injury severity, lost wages, degree of fault, and total impact on your life. Our firm regularly recovers 3x the initial insurance offer for injured cyclists.

You have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit in Florida. If you miss the deadline, your case will likely be dismissed, and you lose your right to compensation. Act quickly. Evidence weakens over time and early action strengthens your claim.

Yes. Florida uses a comparative negligence standard, so you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. It’s crucial to have a lawyer present your case to maximize your recovery despite shared responsibility.

Even minor crashes can result in injuries or insurance disputes. Consult a bicycle accident lawyer if you’re hurt, facing medical bills, or unsure about your rights. Legal help often triples the insurance offer compared to handling a claim alone. Your initial consultation is free and risk-free.