A 51-year-old bicyclist was killed in Rockledge this February in an accident near the intersection of Ansin Road and U.S. 1. The rider, a Rockledge resident, was riding southbound on the shoulder of the highway when he tried to change lanes, possibly due to the road’s bike lane ending suddenly at the intersection. He was struck after veering into the path of a Nissan heading in the same direction. The biker was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering multiple traumatic injuries. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident and no charges have been filed.
How can drivers and cyclists better share the road?
Everyone on the road has a duty to drive or ride safely, and both bicycle riders and car drivers should make a serious effort to share the road. For bikers, this means:
- Using bike lanes when they are available
- Following traffic laws and signals
- Never weaving through traffic
- Using hand signals before turning or switching lanes
- Making use of mirrors or visually checking for cars
- Wearing reflective clothing and safety gear
While bikers are their own first line of defense against other vehicles, safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers of cars, trucks and other vehicles should always make sure to:
- Keep a safe distance from bikes
- Check mirrors before turning or switching lanes
- Look before opening doors
- Avoid tailgating
Florida law requires drivers to leave at least three feet of clearance when passing cyclists. Drivers must also take heed of “share the road” signs, which mean that bicyclists are allowed to use a travel lane and other vehicles cannot pass without first yielding and waiting for a safe opportunity to do so.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, contact the knowledgeable Manatee County bike crash injury lawyers at the firm of Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.