Bicycle Accidents And Head Injuries In Sarasota

Sarasota is a beautiful place to ride a bike. The topography is perfect for riding, the weather is great, but is it safe? Since the 1970’s, Florida has ranked as one of the most dangerous states in the US to be a bicyclist. As a matter of fact, 2017 saw 783 fatal bicycle accidents with automobiles according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In the state of Florida, Sarasota ranks in the top 5 riskiest areas for riding your bike.

Where And When Do These Bicycle Accidents Happen?


For those who haven’t had a close call, it can be tough to see just where all the risk lies. Looking at NHTSA data, we can see:

• 75% of fatal bicycle accidents occur in populated areas compared to rural areas.
• Only 27% of fatal bicycle accidents occur at intersections.
• Slightly more bicycle accidents occur during the daytime with 48% than those that happen at night with 47%. 5% of bicycle accidents occur at dawn or dusk.
• The average age of bicyclists involved in fatal accidents with automobiles is 47 years old.
• Children under the age of 15 only accounts for around 7% of all bicycle accidents in Florida.
• Alcohol is involved in 37% of fatal bicyclist accidents, either by the bicyclist or the driver of a motor vehicle.
• 96% of bicycle accidents in Florida involve one single vehicle.
• 44% of fatal bicycle accidents involve light trucks, and in 88% of these accidents the bicyclist is struck by the front of the vehicle.

Bicycle Accidents And Traumatic Brain Injuries


Wearing a helmet can be a lifesaver for bicyclists. About 7% of all traumatic brain injuries that occur in the United States each year are related to bicycle accidents, and in more than half of fatal accidents, the rider was not wearing a helmet. In the state of Florida, helmets are optional for adults, with helmet laws only covering those under the age of 16.

In cases of helmeted bicyclists, having a helmet on can give a false sense of security. While a helmet does adequately protect the head, it’s not a failsafe option when a collision with a motorist occurs. Bicycle helmets can break due to strong impacts, leading to traumatic brain injuries, many of which can be severe or even fatal.

For those who do not wear a helmet, the head has no protection against impact. In instances such as these, even “lighter” collisions can prove to have severe consequences. The safest thing a Sarasota area bicyclist can do is to wear their helmet, ride on safe roads, pay close attention to the roadway and nearby motorists, and to ride with caution.

Signs Of Traumatic Brain Injury After A Bicycle Accident


Particularly for those who are wearing helmets, it’s not always easy to see if one has suffered a traumatic brain injury straight away. A common misconception is that bicyclists with a head injury after a collision will experience a loss of consciousness, dizziness, or other symptoms immediately. Traumatic brain injuries can be tricky, and mild or moderate brain injuries may not show any symptoms for hours to days after an accident has occurred. Some later signs that a head injury may be present are dizziness, headaches, nausea, fatigue, changes in mood or behavior, forgetfulness, or ringing in the ears.

For bicyclists who have been in an accident with a motorist, it’s important to accept medical assistance at the scene of the accident even if you don’t believe your injuries are severe enough to warrant a trip to the hospital. A full evaluation will be able to determine if invisible injuries are present, and increase your chances of receiving compensation after the accident has occurred.

Video FAQ:

Injury Case Damages - How Much Can I Get? Attorney Bernie Walsh


 

Client Testimonials

Attorney David Goldman has been exceptional in the process of helping me through the case. He has always been easy to reach, whether by phone or email, and has thorough knowledge and explains clearly in depth so you feel safe and confident in your lawyer

I used Michael Babboni and his paralegal, Nicole Moore for a legal matter. They went above and beyond my expectations. During the entire process there was constant communication with both Michael and Nicole. They were extremely organized and on top of my case, which I am very grateful for. Michael truly had my best interests at heart and he was very genuine. I plan on referring Michael to all family and friends and will continue to use him in the future.

I dealt most with Mr. Fernandez. I didn’t know a lot about this process. He took the time to speak with me individually, in person, to explain everything. It was very helpful to actually know and understand the process and what to expect. He closed my case quickly, which was nice that it was not prolonged! I appreciated his hard work and getting me what I felt I deserved after my car accident. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs an honest and reliable lawyer to assist you with your case!

I hired Mr. Walsh after an automobile accident this past March. He and his entire staff were extremely professional. They kept me informed every step of the way and settled my case in a timely manner. Thank you so much for your help.

 

Law Offices Near You

Sarasota Office

Sarasota Personal Injury Law Office

941-954-1234

2822 University Parkway Sarasota Florida 34243

Bradenton Office

Bradenton

941-752-7000

1215 Manatee Ave West Bradenton Florida 34205

St. Petersburg Office

St. Petersburg

727-381-9200

6446 Central Avenue St. Petersburg Florida 33707

Lakewood Ranch Office

Sarasota

941-330-0088

9040 Town Center Pkwy, Lakewood Ranch Florida 34202

Venice Office

Venice

941-496-9555

3986 S. Tamiami Trail Venice Florida 34293

Englewood Office

Englewood

941-474-4800

2960 S. McCall Rd Englewood Florida 34224

Punta Gorda Office

Punta Gorda

941-613-1141

122 Nesbit St, Suite 113, Punta Gorda Florida 33950

Port Charlotte Office

Port Charlotte

941-613-1141

3986 Tamiami Trail Port Charlotte Florida 33952

Arcadia Office

Arcadia

863-494-0122

10 South DeSoto Avenue Arcadia Florida 34266

Fort Myers Office

Fort Myers

239-332-0770

8359 Beacon Blvd Fort Myers Florida 33907

Lakeland Office

Lakeland

863-683-5600

5137 S. Lakeland Dr. Lakeland Florida 33813
 

Get personal attention from a lawyer with decades of experience.


 
×