Teen Killed In Florida Bicycle Crash
Many children ride bikes while hanging out with friends or to get to and from school and other places. While riding bikes is a great form of exercise, it is not without its dangers. Bicycle accidents are common because bikes are small and hard to see.
Sadly, a teen from Hastings was recently killed in a bicycle crash in Florida. The fatal accident occurred on the evening of January 2 in St. Johns County. The 13-year-old boy was riding his bicycle, heading east on County Road 13 in Hastings. After he passed the Cowpen Branch Road intersection, he was rear-ended by a pickup truck.
The boy was ejected from the bicycle due to the impact. He landed on the road and died from his injuries. The pickup truck stopped on the right shoulder. When police officers arrived, the bicycle was still attached to the truck.
The truck driver, a man from Hollister, Florida, was not injured in the crash. It is unknown if he will face criminal charges.
Florida Bicycle Laws
For the most part, bicycles are treated like vehicles in Florida. Here are some of the rules that apply:
- Bicyclists must obey traffic signs and signals.
- Bicyclists must use a fixed seat for riding.
- At a minimum, one hand must be on the handlebars at all times.
- All bicycles must have a brake that can stop the bike within 25 feet.
- Parents are responsible for ensuring that their children obey Florida’s bicycle laws.
Florida also has helmet laws in place. Under state law, all bicycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet if they are under 16 years old. The helmet must fit properly and securely fasten to the person’s head by a strap. The helmet must also meet federal safety standards. It is unknown if the teen in this case was wearing a helmet. He should have been under Florida law.
There are also laws regarding the use of lights. According to Florida Highway Patrol, the teen in this case did not have lights on his bike. Not only is this a requirement, but it allows other motorists to see bicycles better. If the boy had lights on his bike, the truck driver may have been able to see him and avoid hitting him.
Under Florida law, lights are required when riding a bicycle between sunset and sunrise. Bicyclists are required to have a white light in the front of the bike and a red light on the back.
Contact Us Today
Bicycles offer no protection in the event of a crash. Because of this, accidents involving bikes can be deadly.
Florida is one of the deadliest states for bike riders. If you or a loved one has been affected, protect your legal rights. The Florida bicycle accident lawyers at Meldon Law can help obtain compensation for accidents caused by a negligent third party. Call (800) 373-8000 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation. We have three offices to serve you: Gainesville, Ocala, and Fort Lauderdale.
Resource:
news4jax.com/news/local/2022/01/03/13-year-old-killed-while-riding-bike-in-st-johns-county/
