Cyclists Killed in Daytona Beach Accident

Another bicycle accident in Daytona Beach has claimed a life. According to Click Orlando, the accident occurred the day after Thanksgiving as the cyclist crossed North Nova Road in the vicinity of Brentwood Drive.

The bicyclist, Tyrone Floyd Allen, was traveling east when he was struck by a pickup truck traveling north. Based on witness account, Allen was trying to cross the street when he was struck. Witnesses also report that Allen apparently violated many laws, including trying to cross the street when not in a crosswalk and refusing to yield the right of way.

The pickup truck driver remained at the scene, and police do not expect to press criminal charges.

Bicyclist Safety 101

Based on early media reports, the victim in this accident seems to be responsible for the crash. At a minimum, he made several critical errors that led to the collision. At Bundza & Rodriguez, we encourage all cyclists to practice elementary safety principles, such as:

Pay attention. Distracted biking is every bit as dangerous as distracted driving. Cyclists should not wear headphones or read a text message when they are on their bikes.
Obey traffic laws. This includes yielding the right of way and crossing in appropriate crosswalks. In fact, bicyclists should abide by pedestrian crossing rules.
Make yourself visible. Wear bright colors or put reflective tape on your bicycle or clothing so that you stand out.
Ride in the same direction as traffic. Also remember to ride as close to the shoulder as possible.
Equip your bicycle with a white light headlight lamp. You should also have a tail light lamp and reflector.

Finally, all bicyclists are encouraged to wear a helmet. Although Florida law only requires helmets for those cyclists under the age of 16, the fact is that everyone will benefit from having a safety helmet. Look for one that properly fits your head and that is approved by the Department of Transportation.

Comparative Negligence

Florida’s comparative negligence rules also apply to bicyclists. If you are injured in a collision but are partly responsible, then the amount of compensation you can receive will be less. In fact, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if a jury finds that you are 50% responsible for a collision and your injuries are worth $100,000, then you will only receive half that amount, or $50,000. If you were 80% responsible, then you would only be able to receive $20,000 in compensation. Comparative negligence law should provide an incentive to be as careful as possible.

Representing Injured Cyclists

If you or a loved one has been in a bicycle accident, you need to act quickly to protect your rights. Florida law gives injured victims a short amount of time to sue to receive compensation. Wait too long, and you can lose everything.

Our Daytona Beach bicycle accident lawyers at Bundza & Rodriguez, P.A. can help you identify the party at fault and negotiate a favorable settlement. If necessary, we are not afraid to file a lawsuit.

Resource:

clickorlando.com/news/cyclist-struck-killed-by-pickup-truck-in-daytona-beach-officials-say