Clearwater, FL — Morning Bicycle Accident Leaves 12-Year-Old Seriously Injured

Clearwater, FL (September 24, 2024) – A 12-year-old boy was airlifted to All Children’s Hospital after a bicycle accident on Tuesday morning. 

The boy was riding his bicycle in the area of Palmetto Street and Vine Avenue when he was struck by a vehicle. The investigation into the cause of the bicycle accident remains under investigation, and the driver was cooperating with law enforcement.

Why Do Bicycle Accidents Happen?

A variety of factors contribute to the occurrence of bicycle accidents. Some are the result of driver negligence, while others result from cyclist errors, road conditions, or other such hazards. The most common causes of bicycle accidents include:

Driver Negligence

Negligence on the part of drivers is a common contributing cause in many bicycle accidents. This may take the form of:

• Distracted driving
• Impaired driving
• Failure to yield
• Speeding

Engaging in impairing or reckless behaviors such as these may increase the risk of drivers getting into accidents with bicyclists and others.

Cyclist Errors

Sometimes, the things that bicyclists do and do not do while riding can also contribute to collisions with vehicles. 

Failing to Follow Traffic Laws

When sharing the road with bicyclists, drivers largely assume they will follow the traffic signs, signals, and rules. Therefore, failing to adhere to these signs and laws may not only result in criminal penalties, but can also it can also increase the risk of serious or fatal bicycle accidents.

Riding Under the Influence

Just as they can impair drivers, the effects of drugs and alcohol can affect cyclists’ ability to bike safely. Bicyclists may experience slowed reaction, reduced coordination, and vision impairments, among other effects. 

Riding While Distracted

While riding, it is essential for bicyclists to be aware of their surroundings – including watching and listening for hazards. Distractions, for bicyclists, may include listening to music, talking on the phone, or taking a drink. 

How Can Bicyclists Stay Safe?

Bicycle accidents are a serious issue throughout Florida, often resulting in serious injuries or death for those involved. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates more than 41,000 people were injured in bicycle accidents in 2021. There are, however, things that bicyclists can do to stay safe.

Wear a Helmet

Helmets are essential for protecting bicyclists’ heads in the event of a fall. When choosing a helmet, cyclists should ensure it fits properly and can be secured with straps. They may also consider wearing full-faced helmets for added protection in the event of a high-speed crash.

Follow Traffic Laws

When riding, cyclists should obey all traffic signals, signs, and rules. It is advisable that they ride with traffic, rather than against it, and adjust their speed according to the signs and conditions.

Use Hand Signals

Unlike vehicles, most bicycles don’t have blinkers that riders can use to signal their intentions to those around them. Using hand signals, however, they may indicate to drivers whether they mean to turn left or right, which may help prevent bicycle accidents.  

Be Visible

Many collisions involving bicycles and motor vehicles occur because drivers do not see the cyclists. Therefore, wearing bright-colored clothing, particularly during low-light conditions, can aid with visibility. Bicyclists should avoid riding in dark or poorly lit areas, and they should consider equipping their bikes with reflective gear or lights.

Can Cyclists Sue for Bike Accident Injuries in Florida?

When bicyclists are injured in accidents involving motor vehicles, they may be entitled to compensation. Through a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, or a personal injury lawsuit, bike accident victims may seek to recover damages for losses such as their current and future medical expenses, lost wages, loss of enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering.

To recover compensation in a bicycle accident case, those injured will need to establish the elements of negligence – a duty of care, a breach of that duty, causation, and damages. Taking photos of the accident scene, any property damage, and injuries, as well as gathering contact information for any witnesses to the crash, can provide valuable evidence to help support an injury claim.

Without the exterior protection of a vehicle, bicycle accidents involving cars can often have serious or deadly consequences. If you were injured in a biking collision, contact our board-certified lawyer at Magazine & Light Law Group. Our attorney, Jim Magazine, has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of those harmed through the fault of others. For a free, no obligation consultation, call 727-499-9900.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association