Miami is one of the most bike-active cities in Florida—between our beautiful weather, beachside pathways, and urban cycling routes, bicycles are part of daily life for many residents and tourists. But with high traffic, distracted drivers, and busy streets, Miami also has one of the highest rates of bicycle accidents in the state. When a cyclist is hit by a vehicle, the injuries are often catastrophic. Understanding what caused the crash and who is legally responsible is essential for protecting your rights.
Below, we explain the most common causes of Miami bicycle accidents, the parties who may be liable, and what injured cyclists should know about their legal options.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Miami
1. Distracted Driving
Drivers using cell phones, adjusting GPS systems, or simply not paying attention are one of the leading causes of bike crashes. Even a momentary distraction can cause a driver to drift into a bike lane, run a stop sign, or fail to notice a cyclist crossing an intersection.
2. Failure to Yield
Many bicycle crashes happen because drivers fail to yield when:
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Making left turns across a cyclist’s path
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Turning right at intersections (often called “right-hook” accidents)
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Entering or exiting parking lots and driveways
Miami’s dense roads and frequent intersection traffic make these collisions especially common.
3. Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding drivers have less time to react to cyclists, and the impact forces in a crash are far more severe. Aggressive driving—tailgating, unsafe lane changes, or trying to “squeeze by” a cyclist—can all create deadly situations.
4. Dooring Accidents
In busy areas like Brickell, Wynwood, Coconut Grove, and Miami Beach, parked drivers sometimes open their car doors directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist. These “dooring” crashes can throw a rider into traffic or cause serious injuries.
5. Unsafe or Poorly Designed Streets
Some Miami roadways lack:
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Dedicated bike lanes
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Adequate lighting
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Clear lane markings
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Safe shoulders
Crashes are more likely on poorly maintained roads, potholes, or construction zones.
6. Impaired Driving
Drunk or drug-impaired drivers have slower reaction times and reduced awareness, putting cyclists at extreme risk.
7. Cyclist Visibility Issues
Many crashes happen at night or early morning when visibility is low. However, even in daylight, drivers often fail to “look for” bicycles, resulting in preventable collisions.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Miami Bicycle Accident?
1. Negligent Drivers
The most common liable party is the driver who caused the crash. Florida law requires drivers to exercise reasonable care to avoid hitting cyclists. When a driver’s negligence—speeding, texting, improper turns, or alcohol impairment—causes a crash, they can be held responsible for damages.
2. Employers (If the Driver Was Working)
If the at-fault driver was performing work duties (delivery driver, rideshare, courier, etc.), their employer may also be liable under vicarious liability.
3. Rideshare Companies (Uber/Lyft)
If an Uber or Lyft driver hits a cyclist, additional insurance coverage may apply depending on whether the driver had the app on or had a passenger.
4. Government Entities
The City of Miami, Miami-Dade County, or state agencies may be liable if a bicycle accident is caused by:
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Dangerous road design
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Lack of proper signage
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Poor lighting
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Failure to maintain bike lanes
Sovereign immunity rules apply, including shorter notice periods and damages caps.
5. Vehicle Owners
Under Florida’s “dangerous instrumentality doctrine,” vehicle owners can be held liable even if they were not driving at the time of the accident.
6. Bike or Vehicle Manufacturers
If the crash resulted from a mechanical defect—such as brake failure or a faulty bike component—manufacturers or retailers could be responsible under product liability law.
What Damages Can an Injured Cyclist Recover in Florida?
A Miami bicycle accident victim may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical bills and future medical expenses
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Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Scarring or disability
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Loss of enjoyment of life
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Property damage (bike repairs or replacement)
In wrongful death cases, surviving family members may recover additional damages under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act.
What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident in Miami?
If you’re injured:
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Seek medical attention immediately.
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Call the police and ensure an accident report is created.
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Take photos of the scene, your bike, injuries, and the vehicle.
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Get witness information, if available.
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Do not give statements to the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
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Contact a Miami bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible.
A skilled lawyer can investigate the crash, preserve evidence, identify all liable parties, and pursue compensation.
Speak With a Miami Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was hit while riding a bicycle in Miami, you don’t have to navigate the insurance system alone. A Florida personal injury attorney can help protect your rights, prove liability, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Have you or someone you know been injured in a bicycle accident? Contact Florida Personal Injury Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo by dialing his direct number at (786) 272-5841, calling the main office at (305) 461-1095, or Toll Free at 1 (866) 71-CLAIM or email Miami Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at jp@yourattorneys.com or by text at (305) 929-8935.
