Things to Know About Bicycle Accidents at Intersections

Consistently, Florida is ranked as one of the most dangerous states for cyclists, and intersections pose some of the greatest risks. In Tampa, busy areas such as Dale Mabry Highway, Kennedy Boulevard, and intersections near the University of South Florida, bicyclists often have to share the roads with impatient or distracted drivers. Below, our Tampa bicycle accident attorney outlines important things all cyclists should know about these collisions at intersections.

What Causes Bicycle Accidents at Intersections?

There are many points at intersections where bicycles, pedestrians, cars, and trucks all meet. For bicyclists, this means there is a higher chance of drivers overlooking them when they are rushing through traffic lights or making quick turns. Some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents at intersections are as follows:

• Left turns: Drivers making left turns at intersections may not yield to oncoming cyclists, or they may not look where they are turning, striking a cyclist who is crossing the street at the same time.
• Right turns on red: Drivers are legally allowed to turn right on red lights in Tampa as long as they come to a full stop first and check to see that the way is clear. They do not always do this and could injure a cyclist legally crossing in the crosswalk.
• Distracted driving: Distracted driving always poses a hazard, but it is particularly dangerous in busy intersections and drastically increases the risk that a driver will not see a cyclist.

Common Bicycle Intersection Accident Injuries

Bicycle intersection accidents often happen at lower speeds, but they can still cause injuries that are life-changing for victims. The most common of these include:

• Traumatic brain injuries: Only bicyclists under the age of 16 are required to wear bicycle helmets in Tampa. When a cyclist is hit, they often fall to the ground and hit their head, sustaining concussions and other traumatic brain injuries.
• Broken bones: When a cyclist is thrown to the pavement, they may suffer multiple broken bones in the legs, arms, and collarbone.
• Spinal injuries: The force and impact of being hit can be too much for the spine to bear, resulting in multiple injuries, including paralysis.
• Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries can range from torn tendons, ligaments, and muscles to severe road rash caused by sliding against the pavement.

Insurance Issues After Bicycle Intersection Accidents

The main insurance issue that arises after a bicycle accident at an intersection is determining liability. It is not uncommon for the parties involved to dispute who was at fault and who had the right-of-way. Determining liability in these cases is much more complex than other types of accidents, such as rear-end collisions, that are often much more straightforward.

Our Bicycle Accident Attorney in Tampa Can Help After Injury 

At Moore Law, our Tampa bicycle accident attorney can help you hold negligent drivers liable and pursue the damages you need for your medical expenses, lost income, and more. Call us today at 813-510-5400 or contact us online to request a consultation and to learn more about how we can help with your case.