When a motor vehicle and a bicycle crash, people may assume that the driver of the motor vehicle is more at fault for the accident since they have the larger, faster mode of transportation. However, as with all types of accidents, the blame is not always as cut and dry as it seems.
Here are some scenarios where a cyclist may be at fault for an accident on public roadways in Florida.
When the cyclist violates traffic laws
Although it has no motor, a bicycle is still a vehicle under Florida law, and cyclists are under obligation to obey the rules of the road. For example, if the operator of a bicycle runs a stop sign and gets hit by a car that had the right of way, it is likely that the cyclist is responsible for that collision.
When the cyclist is operating impaired
Cycling on public roads while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous to the cyclist as well as everyone around them, just as it is when driving a car while impaired. Impaired cycling can also include activities such as cycling while wearing earbuds. If a bicyclist gets into an accident while impaired, a law enforcement officer may determine that the impairment had a role in the crash.
Whether someone is riding a bicycle or driving a motor vehicle, it is important to obey all local traffic laws and keep an eye out for others on the road in order to keep everyone safe.