Bicycling as a means of getting around has been increasing in popularity in recent years. But as more bicyclists share busy roads with automobiles, fatal accidents become more likely. One such tragedy took place recently in the Miami area.
According to the Broward Sheriff’s Office, the fatal accident occurred at about 1:00 a.m on Southwest Third Street in Pompano Beach. The 40-year-old victim was heading west on Third Street on his bike. As he crossed the Interstate 95 overpass, he was rear-ended by a car. Witnesses said the car stopped next to the victim before driving away.
At the time this post was prepared, detectives were still trying to identify the driver. They say the vehicle was late model Dodge Avenger, either silver or white in color, and probably has damage to its windshield and front bumper.
When a Florida cyclist is killed by a negligent hit-and-run driver, his or her next of kin may be left wondering how they can recover financially for their loss. If the driver is identified and apprehended, they may be able to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent driver and seek compensation from the driver’s automobile insurance policy. If the driver is never identified, the cyclist’s family may still be able to pursue compensation, if the decedent was insured through an automobile policy that provided uninsured motorist coverage.
In any wrongful death case, it is critical to identify all possible sources of recovery, including all available insurance coverage, as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorney can help a family seek the compensation they deserve for the loss of a loved one.
Source: Miami Herald, “Bicyclist killed in hit-and-run identified,” Carli Teproff, Nov. 9, 2016
