Although there are no laws banning the use of cell phones while cycling, distracted cycling is growing and is a dangerous problem, as it can lead to a Sarasota bicycle accident. Cyclists need to keep both hands on their bike in order to be able to:
- Stay straight and not drift into a vehicle’s lane
- Turn their bicycle safely
- React to vehicles pulling out of a driveway or turning in front of them
Additionally, cyclists need to keep their mind on the task at hand—riding their bicycle safely in traffic. When cyclists ride distracted by listening to headphones or by using a cell phone while cycling, they can become distracted. If a biker’s mind is not on the road or tuned in to looking for vehicles turning or exiting a driveway, then there may be more cycling accidents in Florida and nationwide.
Somes states are actually looking at citing distracted cyclists with minor traffic tickets if caught texting and biking. Distracted cycling in Florida is just as dangerous as distracted driving. And, for the cyclist, it can be even more dangerous. Cyclists do not have the added protection of being inside a car’s steel cage. When cyclists ride distracted, they are putting themselves and others around them at serious risk.
If you were injured in a Sarasota cycling accident due to a distracted driver at the wheel, you need to call a knowledgeable Sarasota bicycle accident lawyer at Mallard Perez today for a free, no-obligation consultation at (888) 409-3805.
