How Much Is My Florida Bicycle Accident Claim Worth?
Bicycle accidents are quite common in Florida. According to the FLHSMV, in 2021 alone, there were over 6,400 bicycle crashes in Florida, resulting in more than 190 deaths and more than 5,900 injuries. Fortunately, in Florida, you may be eligible to obtain compensation after suffering injuries in a bicycle accident.
If you have sustained injuries in a Florida bicycle accident and are eligible to seek compensation, you may be wondering about how much money you will get. So, how much is your Florida bicycle accident claim worth? It is impossible to say how much your bicycle accident claim is worth since the value of a bicycle accident claim depends on the details of the particular case. You can expect several factors to impact the value of your Florida bicycle accident claim. A qualified bicycle accident attorney can assess the details of your case and help you estimate what your Florida bicycle accident claim is worth.
What Factors Affect the Value of a Bicycle Accident Claim?
Each bicycle accident case is unique, and you cannot use another case’s outcome to predict your case’s outcome. Several factors can lead to you recovering a different amount than someone with a similar case received. Below are some of the factors that can affect the value of your Florida bicycle accident claim;
The Severity of the Injury
Generally, the more severe the injury you suffered in your bicycle accident, the more money you can expect to recover. For example, if you lost a limb in your accident, you can expect to recover more than if you had suffered cuts and bruises. The more severe your injuries, the more money you will spend on medical costs. More severe injuries also almost always result in lost wages and substantial pain and suffering (both physical and emotional).
Comparative Negligence
Another factor that affects the value of a bicycle accident claim is the percentage of fault the victim bears. If the other party is entirely to blame for your bicycle accident, you can expect to recover more than if you were partially to blame for your accident. Because Florida is a comparative negligence state, if you bear responsibility for your bicycle accident, the compensation you recover in your injury claim will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
It is crucial to note that, according to Florida law, if you did not have a helmet on at the time of your bicycle accident, your decision not to wear a helmet cannot be used against you. Your decision not to wear a helmet cannot be considered evidence of negligence.
Insurance Coverage Available
Lastly, how much insurance coverage the at-fault party has could impact the value of your Florida bicycle accident claim. If your damages amount to $60,000, but the liable party only has $40,000 in insurance coverage, you may only be able to recover up to $40,000.
Remember, if you purchased uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage (UM coverage) through your car insurance, that insurance is available if the at-fault party has no insurance (including a hit and run) or is underinsured. Cyclists ARE eligible for UM coverage.
Contact a Key West & Marathon Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you have suffered injuries in a Florida bicycle accident and need help seeking the compensation you deserve from a negligent party, contact our Key West & Marathon bicycle accident lawyers at Florida Keys Injury.
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