What Types of Bicycle Accidents are Most Common in Tampa?

With Tampa’s beautiful weather and gorgeous scenery, cycling is a great way for people to get around. Unfortunately, it can also be very dangerous. Even avid cyclists are at risk when they are on the roads. Negligent drivers do not always watch for bicycles and even when practicing the best safety precautions, cyclists can become injured.

Unfortunately, there are also a number of different types of bicycle accidents. The type of crash a cyclist was in may affect the nature and severity of their injuries. Below are some of the most common types of accidents and how to get the help you need if you have been hurt. 

Right Turn Accidents 

A right turn accident refers to when a motorist passes someone on a bicycle who is traveling in the same direction. If the driver suddenly makes a right turn, they will cut directly across the path of the cyclist. Drivers often fail to check their blind spots or they misjudge the speed of the cyclist before turning. These accidents are most common at intersections and in congested cities where bike lanes are narrow.

Left Turn Accidents 

Left turn accidents occur when a motorist turns left, typically at an intersection. Although drivers often watch for other motorists, they may fail to see a cyclist. As a driver turns, they may strike a cyclist that is heading straight. It may be harder for drivers to see cyclists due to glare, parked cars, or distracted driving but none of these are excuses for the serious injuries that are sustained.

Dooring Accidents

Dooring accidents occur when an occupant of a parked vehicle opens their door into the pathway of a cyclist. The cyclist then either crashes into the door or they may be thrown into traffic. Motorists are required to be aware of their surroundings at all times and so, they can be considered liable for a dooring accident. These accidents are more common in urban areas that have a lot of traffic and streets that have parallel parking.

Driveway Pull-Out Accidents

When motorists enter a road from a side street, parking lot, or alley, they may not always come to a full stop. Again, they may look for larger and faster-moving vehicles but may fail to see a cyclist. These accidents can include sideswipes, head-on collisions, or sudden braking that causes the cyclist to be ejected from their bike. They are common in residential subdivisions, restaurant strips, and shopping plazas.

Our Bicycle Accident Attorney in Tampa Provides the Legal Help You Need

Regardless of the type of collision you have been involved in, our Tampa bicycle accident attorney is here to help. At Moore Law, our seasoned attorney can handle the legal details of your case such as collecting evidence to prove liability and accurately valuing your claim so you obtain full financial compensation. Call us now at 813-510-5400 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need so you can focus on your recovery.

Source:

ecfr.gov/current/title-46/chapter-I/subchapter-A/part-5/subpart-B/section-5.29