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Marion County Bicyclist Survives Wrong Way Crash-Avoid This Common Collision Scenario

A Marion County bicyclist, who last week survived a head-on car accident while riding against the flow of traffic, is a reminder that cyclists must - "drive their bikes" and ride with the flow of traffic.

According to the Ocala Star Banner report, Miguel A. Almedia, 46, was riding his bicycle eastbound on the westbound lane of S.R. 200.  After making a complete stop at a four-way stop sign, Michael L. Rogers, 56, a motorist of Ocala, completed a right turn onto S.R. 200, failing to see Almedia.

Roger's car crashed head-on into Almedia's front bike tire.  Almedia was thrown onto the roadway and suffered non-fatal head injuries.

It appears the bicyclist, committed a potentially lethal cycling error-the "Wrong Way Wallop" (Wallop).  The Florida Bicycle Association (FBA) refers to the Wallop as a common collision caused by preventable, illegal cycling.

The Wallop occurs when a cyclist is riding against the flow of traffic and gets hit by a crossing or turning motorist. Basically-the cyclist is riding the wrong way on the street.

One California study shows that cyclists riding against the flow of traffic are 3.6 times more likely to get in a car accident. The risk increases by 6.6 times for cyclists under the age of 17.

To cycle safer, the FBA recommends riding with the flow of traffic.  Motorists normally scan for traffic trav­eling in the lawful direction. Wrong-way traffic is easily overlooked. Not only is this smart advice-it's the law.

As an accident lawyer, I can say, while cyclists have a right of way on the road, they must obey Florida's motor traffic laws.  Although no "bike license" is required, cyclists must "drive their bike" and follow the rules of the road.

Interestingly, although Almedia violated the law by riding in the wrong direction, Florida Highway Patrol issued a citation to Rogers for failing to yield the right of way.  Likely, this is a case of comparative negligence.  

For More Information:   

Avoid a Bicycle Accident--Adult Safety Tips

Bicyclists-know the Law and Stay Alive

For other common crash scenarios visit, Florida Bicycle Associaton's, Understanding common crash types and how to prevent them