Bradenton Man Suffers Fatal Injuries in Bicycle Accident

Bicycling is a great way to stay in shape and a cost effective way to get around town. While Bradenton does have a vibrant cycling community, it is important for riders to be aware of the potential hazards and to take the necessary precautions. Unfortunately, Bradenton bike accidents involving motorists are a relatively common occurrence and riders have little to protect them in these types of collisions. A recent crash that tragically claimed the life of a local man highlights the dangers riders face and the severe injuries that can occur as a result.

Bradenton Bike Accident Is First Fatality of the Year

According to a report in the Bradenton Herald, a bicycle accident near U.S. 41 closed down several lanes of traffic on a recent Tuesday afternoon. A 37-year-old Bradenton man was riding his bike just before 4;00 p.m. near the intersection of 301 Boulevard East and First Street. As he went to enter the crosswalk, he was struck by an as yet unidentified motorist driving a Nissan Altima.

Police were immediately called to the scene and found the Altima driver uninjured. Unfortunately, the bicyclist suffered severe injuries as a result of the crash. He was immediately transported to Blake Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. According to crash reports from the Florida Integrated Report Exchange System (FIRES), this was the 20th bike accident in Manatee County since the beginning of the year and the first fatality. In 2018, more than 125 bike accidents occurred in our area, claiming the lives of five people.

The Dangers Riders Face When Bike Accidents Happen

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) advises that motorists share responsibility in keeping bicyclists safe. They urge drivers to be alert to the presence of cyclists on the road, to give them plenty of space in traffic and when making turns, and to avoid dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence. All of these put bicyclists at increased risk.

The FLHSMV also urges bicyclists to pay close attention to oncoming vehicles and changes in traffic conditions as a way of protecting themselves. While a bicyclist may have the right of way when crossing an intersection, you cannot count on the fact that a vehicle will stop. Addition steps to protect yourself include:

• Wear light or bright colored clothing to increase visibility;
• Make sure your bike has head and tailights if driving at night;
• Learn hand signals to indicate when making turns;
• Use safety equipment when riding, including a helmet. While Florida law does not require adult bicyclists to wear one, doing so can cut the risk of potentially fatal head injuries by nearly half.

Reach Out to Us Today for Help

When you or someone you love suffers serious injuries in a bike accident, the Law Office of Steven G. Lavely is here to help you hold at fault drivers accountable. Call or contact our Bradenton bicycle accident attorney and request a consultation today.

Resources:

bradenton.com/news/local/article226476790.html

flhsmv.gov/safety-center/child-safety/bicycle-pedestrian-safety/

https://www.lavelylaw.com/common-types-of-bike-accidents-and-how-to-avoid-them/