Riding a bicycle is an excellent way to exercise or even commute nearby. Many people enjoy riding their bicycles in Florida’s sunny weather, though you should follow the state’s biking safety regulations closely.
You may already be aware that you must abide by the same laws as motorists when riding in the streets or bike lanes. However, you may be wondering if you need to wear a helmet while on your bike in Florida.
It’s important that you understand the bicycle helmet requirements in Florida for your safety as well as your legal rights. 1-800-Injured is an attorney and medical referral service that can help you find legal assistance for bicycle accidents and injuries. In this informative article, we discuss Florida’s bicycle helmet laws, what they mean for you, and how a bicycle accident attorney can assist you after a bicycle accident.
Overview of Florida’s Bicycle Helmet Laws
When it comes to bicycle helmet requirements, bicyclists must follow the stat’s helmet laws. This requires anyone under the age of 16 wear a helmet. The helmet must abide by specific requirements that include a proper fit and a fastening strap in accordance with federal safety standards.
Parentsmust make sure their children under 16 always wear a proper helmet or they may face citations and fines. There are no laws that require anyone over the age of 16 to wear a helmet while on a bicycle. However, it is strongly encouraged. An accident while riding a bicycle without a helmet has the potential for even greater injuries that could leave permanent impacts.
Benefits of Wearing a Helmet While Riding Your Bike in Florida
Your children under 16 must always wear a helmet. As an adult, you’re free to choose whether or not you wear a helmet. While you won’t be breaking any laws by not wearing one, it’s to your benefit to wear a helmet while biking.
The biggest benefit of wearing a helmet is that you’re protecting yourself from serious injury or death. Helmets are designed to absorb some of the energy from an impact. It only takes a split second for a negligent driver to crash into you while you ride. If you choose to ride without a helmet, it’s at your own risk.
Helmets can also help you stand out to motorists. Bicycles are harder to spot on the roadways. With a brightly colored helmet, you’ll improve your visibility. If you have children, you’ll be setting a good example for them by always wearing your own helmet, too.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Florida
Bicycle accidents can cause serious, even catastrophic injuries. These may include traumatic brain injuries, which can have lasting consequences that affect physical and cognitive abilities. You may also experience facial trauma, neck injuries, back injuries, bone fractures, road rash, and internal bleeding.
Wearing a helmet can help protect against many injuries. However, it’s still possible to experience life-altering injuries when in a bicycle accident, regardless of protective gear.
Steps to Take After a Florida Bicycle Accident
You and your children should always know what to do in the unthinkable event of a bicycle accident. The first step to take is to get medical treatment. Call the police to report the accident and get emergency medical services to come to the scene.
Even if you can get up and move on your own accord, make sure you are seen promptly by a medical professional. Many injuries may not have obvious symptoms in the first few hours after a bicycle accident.
One of the most important steps to take after you are hurt in a bicycle accident is to speak with an attorney. 1-800-Injured can help you find a lawyer who can provide legal representation in this situation. Due to the laws in the state regarding comparative negligence, it’s possible to incur some of the blame for your own injuries if you were not wearing a helmet.
Florida’s no-fault laws mean that your insurance should cover your own injuries. However, it can get complicated when you experience severe injuries. You may reach the limits of your coverage, though a personal injury lawsuit can help you recover these costs. Reach out to a personal injury attorney to discuss your case and learn about your legal options.