With summer coming to an end, school being back in session, and South Florida’s beautiful fall weather approaching, drivers are sure to see more bicycle riders on the roads.   Unfortunately, over the last several years, South Florida drivers have developed a disregard for bicyclists.  In fact, many drivers simply perceive them as a nuisance that do not belong on the road.  As a result, there have been countless bicyclists severely injured after being struck by a motor vehicle.  Bicycle accident injuries vary from minor scrapes and bruises to broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and death.

In an attempt to limit injuries to bicyclists, Florida has enacted Florida Statute § 316.130 (15) that provides all operators of motor vehicles owe a duty of reasonable care and a duty to avoid colliding with any bicyclists.

Recognizing the need for further legislation, Florida has also instituted Florida Statute § 316.083, better known as the “three (3) foot law.”  This provides that the driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle must pass the bicycle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicycle.  Failure of drivers to obey the three (3) foot rule can result in a citation being issued.

As South Florida personal injury attorneys with experience handling bicycle accident cases, it is important that you immediately contact Greenberg & Strelitz, P.A. at (561) 361-9400 to schedule a free consultation if you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident.