Key West · Marathon · Islamorada · Key Largo
Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Florida Keys & Monroe County
Monroe County recorded 96 bicycle crashes in a single year — a 98% injury rate. The Florida Keys' narrow roads, heavy tourist traffic, and distracted drivers make cycling dangerous. When a negligent driver injures a cyclist, Juan Cordero Lawyers fights for full compensation. No fee unless we win.
Florida's statute of limitations for bicycle accident claims is two years from the date of the accident. Surveillance footage disappears within days — call us today.
Bicycle Accidents in Monroe County: The Numbers
Monroe County is one of the most dangerous counties in Florida for cyclists. The combination of narrow two-lane roads, high-speed traffic on US-1, heavy tourist volume, and a large cycling population creates a uniquely hazardous environment. In a recent reporting year, Monroe County recorded 96 bicycle crashes with a 98% injury rate — meaning nearly every crash resulted in an injury.
Florida law treats bicycles as vehicles. Under Fla. Stat. § 316.2065, cyclists have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers. Drivers must give cyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing and must yield to cyclists in bike lanes and at crosswalks. When a driver violates these rules and injures a cyclist, the driver is liable for the cyclist's full damages.
3-Foot Passing Law
Florida requires drivers to give cyclists at least three feet of clearance when overtaking. Violations of this law are strong evidence of negligence.
Bike Lane Protection
Drivers must yield to cyclists in designated bike lanes. Cutting across a bike lane without yielding is a traffic violation and a basis for liability.
Same Rights as Drivers
Cyclists have the same right to use the road as motor vehicles. A driver who claims they "didn't see" a cyclist is not excused from liability.
Where Bicycle Accidents Happen in the Florida Keys
Crashes are concentrated along US-1 and in the tourist corridors of Key West, Marathon, Islamorada, and Key Largo.
Common Causes
- Drivers failing to yield to cyclists at intersections
- Dooring — a car door opened into the path of a cyclist
- Rear-end collisions when a driver follows too closely
- Unsafe lane changes and right-hook turns cutting off cyclists
- Distracted driving — texting, phone use, or inattention
- Drunk or impaired drivers — a serious problem in the Keys tourist corridor
- Speeding on US-1 and other Keys roadways
- Road hazards — potholes, sand, gravel, and debris
Injuries We Handle
- Traumatic brain injuries — concussions and skull fractures
- Broken bones — wrists, arms, collarbones, legs, and pelvis
- Road rash — deep abrasions requiring skin grafting
- Spinal cord injuries causing permanent disability
- Facial fractures and dental injuries
- Internal organ damage from impact
- Soft tissue injuries — torn ligaments, tendons, and muscles
- Wrongful death when a cyclist does not survive
What to Do After a Crash
- Call 911 — get law enforcement and EMS to the scene
- Seek emergency medical care immediately, even if you feel okay
- Photograph the scene, your injuries, the vehicle, and any road hazards
- Get contact and insurance information from the at-fault driver
- Get names and contact information from any witnesses
- Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company
- Call Juan Cordero Lawyers — we preserve evidence and protect your claim
Compensation We Pursue
- Medical expenses — emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, rehabilitation
- Future medical costs for ongoing treatment or permanent injuries
- Lost wages during recovery and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering — physical pain and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life and permanent disability
- Property damage to the bicycle
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
Recent Result
$600,000
Bicycle Accident Settlement
Cyclist struck by vehicle — Florida Keys
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions — Bicycle Accidents in the Florida Keys
Does Florida's PIP law cover bicycle accident injuries?
It depends. Florida's Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law applies to motor vehicles. If you were struck by a car while riding your bicycle, you may be able to access PIP benefits through the at-fault driver's policy or through your own auto insurance policy if you have one. However, PIP only covers 80% of medical bills and 60% of lost wages up to $10,000 — and only if you meet the threshold for a serious injury to sue for pain and suffering. In serious bicycle accident cases, the negligence claim against the at-fault driver is typically the primary path to full compensation.
What rights do cyclists have on Florida roads?
Under Florida law (Fla. Stat. § 316.2065), a bicycle is a vehicle and cyclists have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers. Cyclists may ride on the roadway and are entitled to a safe passing distance of at least three feet when a vehicle overtakes them. Drivers must yield to cyclists in bike lanes and at crosswalks. When a driver violates these rules and injures a cyclist, the driver is liable for the cyclist's damages.
What if I wasn't wearing a helmet when I was injured?
Florida law requires cyclists under age 16 to wear a helmet. Cyclists 16 and older are not required to wear a helmet. Failure to wear a helmet does not bar your claim, but the at-fault driver's insurer may argue it contributed to your head injuries. We know how to address this argument and protect your recovery.
The driver says I ran a red light or stop sign. What happens?
Florida follows a modified comparative fault rule (Fla. Stat. § 768.81). If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover. Insurance companies routinely try to blame cyclists. We investigate the accident thoroughly — reviewing traffic camera footage, witness statements, and physical evidence — to establish the true facts and protect your right to full compensation.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
If the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to recover through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you have an auto insurance policy. UM/UIM coverage can apply to bicycle accidents in Florida. We review all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.
Can I sue if I was hit by a car while riding on the Overseas Heritage Trail?
Yes, if a vehicle struck you on or near the trail. The Overseas Heritage Trail runs along the old Flagler railroad right-of-way and crosses numerous road intersections throughout the Keys. Drivers who fail to yield to trail users at these crossings can be held liable for resulting injuries. We are familiar with the trail's layout and the specific intersection hazards throughout Monroe County.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident lawsuit in Florida?
Florida's statute of limitations for negligence claims is two years from the date of the accident (Fla. Stat. § 95.11(3)(a), as amended effective 2023). Missing this deadline almost always bars your claim entirely. Contact an attorney as soon as possible — evidence disappears, surveillance footage is overwritten, and witnesses' memories fade.
Hurt in a Bicycle Accident in the Florida Keys?
Call Juan Cordero Lawyers for a free consultation. We represent cyclists injured throughout Monroe County — Key West, Marathon, Islamorada, and Key Largo. No fee unless we win.