Pinellas County Child Bicycle Accident Injuries: When Reckless Drivers Are To Blame
Children love riding bikes. During the summer months, when children are out of school, there’s increased bike traffic on local streets, near public parks, and in neighborhoods. Unfortunately, this time of year also brings an increase in bicycle accidents involving children in Pinellas County, and reckless drivers are often to blame.
These are among the most heartbreaking cases, as the harm young cyclists suffer is often severe. Our experienced Clearwater personal injury attorney explains the most common injuries young cyclists suffer in these crashes and the reckless driver behaviors that cause them.
Injuries That Can Happen Due To Pinellas County Bicycle Accidents Involving Children
Riding a bike is a popular hobby among children, but it poses significant risks. Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports over 500 bicycle accidents in Pinellas County each year, and children are among the most common victims. Injuries they often suffer as a result include:
- Skull fractures, concussions, brain swelling, and other traumatic brain injuries can affect memory, behavior, and long-term development.
- Damage to the neck, back, or spinal cord may result in partial or complete loss of mobility.
- Broken bones, particularly to the arms, wrists, collarbone, and legs.
- Facial injuries, including lacerations, broken teeth, and orbital fractures, can occur from direct contact with pavement or a vehicle.
- Internal organ damage, which may not produce obvious symptoms immediately, can become life-threatening without prompt medical attention.
Sadly, these types of injuries can impact children and their families long after a Pinellas County bicycle accident. When reckless drivers are to blame, you have the right to hold them accountable.
Driver Behaviors That Increase Clearwater Bicycle Accident Risks
While young cyclists need to wear a helmet, obey all traffic rules, and take other precautions, bicycle accidents in Pinellas County involving children often result from the reckless driving of others. Dangerous driving behavior that puts them at risk includes:
- Failing to yield to young bicyclists at local intersections or crosswalks.
- Distracted driving, which can include texting, cell phone use, or even talking to passengers.
- Speeding through residential neighborhoods, school zones, and park areas where children are most likely to be riding.
- Opening car doors into a young cyclist’s path.
- Failing to allow at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist, as required under Section 316.083 of the Florida Statutes.
When bike accidents in Pinellas County involving children happen due to the above or other causes, the family has the right to hold the at-fault driver liable for all medical expenses, future costs, pain and suffering, and potential long-term impairments.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Experienced Clearwater Bicycle Accident Attorney
Children can suffer devastating injuries due to bicycle accidents in Pinellas County. At The Reep Law Firm, we provide the caring, comprehensive legal help your family needs during this difficult time and take the legal actions needed to hold the at-fault driver accountable.
Take the first step toward recovery and call or contact our office today to request a consultation with our experienced Clearwater bicycle accident attorney.
Sources:
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.083.html
