Bradenton Man Hit by Car, Killed
Riding a bike can be fun for people of all ages. Plus, it’s an economical way to get from one place to another, which can be especially useful in cities where everything is close by. However, bicycles can be dangerous. For example, their small size makes them hard to see.
A Bradenton man was recently killed because a motorist did not see him. The 45-year-old man died on the afternoon of July 15 while riding a bicycle on Cortez Road.
A 23-year-old man from Sarasota was driving a Chevrolet sedan on Cortez Road, near 24th Street West. He was heading west when hit the man on the bicycle. The bicyclist was in the crosswalk at the time of the crash.
The man was taken to HCA Florida Blake Hospital, where he later died. The driver was not injured in the crash. The accident is still under investigation.
When Cars Collide With Bicycles
When cars and bicycles collide, the results can be disastrous, as seen in this case. These crashes are often caused by the following:
- Driver inattention or distraction
- Failure to yield right of way
- Poor visibility or adverse weather conditions
- Bicyclists not following traffic laws or riding unpredictably
After a bicycle accident, it is important for the bicyclist to do the following:
- Ensure safety by moving to a safe location if possible. Call 911 if there are injuries.
- Exchange contact and insurance information.
- Document the scene with photos. Take as many notes as possible about what happened, road and weather conditions, and anything else that can prove fault.
- Gather witness statements. Get the contact information of anyone who saw the accident take place.
- Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. This will protect your legal rights when you file a claim or lawsuit.
There are a few thing to keep in mind in regards to fault:
- Determining fault can be complex and may involve traffic laws, witness statements, and evidence from the accident scene.
- Bicyclists may be covered under auto insurance policies for medical expenses or under homeowner’s insurance for liability.
Bicycle accidents can be prevented by the following:
- Increased awareness and education for both drivers and bicyclists on sharing the road safely
- Implementation of dedicated bike lanes and improved road infrastructure
- Strict enforcement of traffic laws for both drivers and cyclists
- Use of helmets, reflective clothing, and other protective gear by cyclists
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Riding a bicycle can be a scary situation, especially when on a busy road with vehicles. Drivers are not always looking out for bike riders, so crashes are common.
If you have been injured in a bicycle crash, you need to understand your legal options. Winning a claim can be challenging, but a Bradenton bicycle accident lawyer from Cahall Law Firm can assist you in getting full and fair compensation. Call (941) 281-2019 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
Source:
bradenton.com/news/local/article290110999.html
