Bike & Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Pasco County

When a bicycle or pedestrian accident disrupts your life in Pasco County, you need legal advocates who understand both Florida’s complex traffic laws and the unique challenges facing cyclists and pedestrians in our rapidly growing community. At Lowman Law Firm, our Pasco County bicycle and pedestrian accident attorneys have spent over two decades helping injured victims secure the compensation they deserve while navigating the aftermath of serious crashes with skill and compassion.

Operating from our conveniently located Dade City office at 14233 7th St, we serve bicycle and pedestrian accident victims throughout Pasco County, from the growing suburban areas of Wesley Chapel and Land O’Lakes to the historic downtown areas and rural communities. With bicycle and pedestrian accidents in Pasco County occurring regularly due to our county’s rapid development and increasing traffic, having local legal representation can make the difference between fair compensation and financial hardship.

Common Causes of Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents in Pasco County

Pasco County’s explosive growth and infrastructure development create unique challenges for cyclists and pedestrians that our attorneys encounter regularly. The combination of increased traffic volume, construction zones, mixed urban and rural environments, and varying levels of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure creates dangerous conditions.

Distracted Driving

With busy commuter routes like State Road 54 and growing suburban developments throughout Pasco County, distracted drivers pose a constant threat to cyclists and pedestrians. Cell phone use, GPS navigation, and other distractions cause drivers to miss seeing vulnerable road users until it’s too late.

Poor Infrastructure and Construction Zones

Pasco County’s rapid development means constant road construction and infrastructure projects. Many areas lack adequate sidewalks, crosswalks, or bicycle lanes, forcing pedestrians and cyclists to share space with vehicle traffic. Construction zones create additional hazards with temporary traffic patterns and reduced visibility.

High-Speed Roads Without Pedestrian Accommodations

Many roads throughout Pasco County were designed for vehicles without consideration for pedestrians or cyclists. High-speed corridors like Wesley Chapel Boulevard and Land O’Lakes Boulevard see frequent accidents when vulnerable road users attempt to cross or travel alongside fast-moving traffic.

Poor Lighting and Visibility

Many areas of Pasco County have limited street lighting, creating dangerous conditions for evening and early morning pedestrians and cyclists. Poor visibility is particularly problematic in rural areas and newer developments where lighting infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with growth.

Intersection Design Problems

Complex intersections throughout Pasco County, particularly in rapidly developing areas, often lack proper pedestrian crossing signals, adequate crossing times, or clear sight lines. These design flaws contribute to accidents involving turning vehicles and crossing pedestrians.

Tourist and Unfamiliar Driver Issues

Pasco County attracts visitors to its recreational areas, shopping centers, and seasonal events. Unfamiliar drivers may not anticipate pedestrians and cyclists in areas where local residents commonly walk or bike, leading to accidents.

Types of Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Cases We Handle

Crosswalk Accidents

Pedestrians struck while legally crossing at intersections face serious injuries due to the speed and force of vehicle impacts. These cases often involve questions about signal timing, driver negligence, and crosswalk visibility.

Bicycle Lane and Roadway Accidents

Cyclists struck while riding in bike lanes or on roadway shoulders often suffer catastrophic injuries. These cases may involve driver negligence, inadequate bike lane design, or road maintenance issues.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Unfortunately, some drivers flee after striking pedestrians or cyclists. We work with law enforcement throughout Pasco County to identify hit-and-run drivers while pursuing compensation through uninsured motorist coverage.

School Zone and Child Accidents

Children walking or biking to school face particular risks in busy areas throughout Pasco County. These cases often involve enhanced liability due to school zone regulations and the heightened duty of care owed to children.

Shopping Center and Parking Lot Accidents

Busy commercial areas throughout Pasco County see frequent pedestrian accidents in parking lots and near store entrances. These cases may involve both driver negligence and property owner liability for unsafe conditions.

Public Transportation Accidents

Bus stops and transit areas can be dangerous for pedestrians, particularly when buses create visibility issues or when transit infrastructure is inadequate.

Understanding Florida Bicycle and Pedestrian Laws

Florida has specific laws governing the rights and responsibilities of pedestrians and cyclists that directly impact accident liability and compensation. Our Pasco County attorneys help clients understand these complex regulations.

Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws

Florida law gives pedestrians the right-of-way in crosswalks and at intersections, but also requires pedestrians to exercise reasonable care. Understanding when these laws apply is crucial for establishing liability.

Bicycle Traffic Laws

Cyclists in Florida have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle operators, including the right to use roadways and the duty to follow traffic laws. Violations by either cyclists or drivers can affect liability in accidents.

Comparative Negligence

Florida’s comparative negligence system allows recovery even when pedestrians or cyclists bear some responsibility for accidents. Skilled representation is crucial for minimizing assigned fault and maximizing compensation.

No-Fault Insurance Limitations

Unlike motor vehicle accidents, pedestrian and bicycle accidents are not covered by Florida’s no-fault PIP insurance system, making it crucial to pursue compensation directly from at-fault drivers and their insurance companies.

Compensation Available for Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Victims

Bicycle and pedestrian accident victims in Pasco County may be entitled to comprehensive compensation for their often severe injuries and life-changing impacts.

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: Emergency room treatment, surgery, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to inability to work during recovery
• Property Damage: Bicycle repair or replacement, damaged personal belongings
• Future Medical Care: Long-term treatment, therapy, and assistive equipment
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduced ability to earn income due to permanent injuries

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional trauma from injuries
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in walking, cycling, and outdoor activities
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Permanent changes to appearance from road rash and other injuries
• Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, and fear of walking or cycling
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on relationships with family members

Common Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Injuries

The vulnerability of pedestrians and cyclists in collisions with motor vehicles means these accidents often result in severe, life-altering injuries.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head injuries are common when pedestrians or cyclists are struck by vehicles or thrown to the pavement. These injuries can have lifelong consequences affecting cognitive function, personality, and independence.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The force of vehicle impacts can cause spinal cord damage, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis requiring extensive rehabilitation and lifelong care.

Multiple Fractures

Pedestrians and cyclists often suffer multiple broken bones from vehicle impacts and falls, including complex fractures that require surgical repair and lengthy recovery periods.

Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Cyclists who slide across pavement often suffer severe abrasions called road rash, which can require skin grafts and result in permanent scarring.

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma can cause internal organ damage and bleeding that may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening without prompt treatment.

Amputations

Severe accidents can result in traumatic amputations or injuries so severe that amputation becomes necessary, requiring extensive rehabilitation and adaptive equipment.

Immediate Steps After a Pasco County Bicycle or Pedestrian Accident

The actions taken immediately after an accident can significantly impact both recovery and legal outcomes:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Call 911 even if injuries seem minor
2. Stay at the Scene: Don’t leave unless medical transport is necessary
3. Document Everything: Take photos of vehicles, the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage
4. Get Driver Information: Collect insurance information, driver’s license details, and contact information
5. Identify Witnesses: Get contact information from anyone who saw the accident
6. Report to Police: Ensure a police report is filed, especially for injury accidents
7. Contact Our Office: Call (352) 437-7777 before speaking with insurance companies

Learn more about what to do if you are a pedestrian hit by a car and understand what you need to do after a pedestrian or bicycle accident.

Working with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often use bias against pedestrians and cyclists to minimize claim payouts, making experienced legal representation crucial.

Common Insurance Company Tactics

• Victim Blaming: Suggesting pedestrians or cyclists were at fault regardless of the actual circumstances
• Quick Settlement Offers: Low offers before the full extent of injuries is known
• Surveillance: Following accident victims to find evidence contradicting injury claims
• Medical Record Scrutiny: Searching for pre-existing conditions to blame for injuries
• Claim Delays: Using complex investigations to pressure victims into accepting low settlements

How Our Attorneys Protect Vulnerable Road Users

We understand the biases against pedestrians and cyclists and work aggressively to overcome them with compelling evidence, expert testimony, and thorough case preparation that demonstrates the true fault and extent of our clients’ injuries.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Resources

At Lowman Law Firm, we support pedestrian and bicycle safety throughout Pasco County. Learn about 7 common reasons for pedestrian accidents to help prevent future incidents.

Proudly Serving All of Pasco County

Dade City | Wesley Chapel | Land O’Lakes | Lutz | Zephyrhills