Cycling in Tampa or other parts of Florida inevitably involves navigating intersections. It’s a necessary evil, as intersections present particular dangers for cyclists, from distracted drivers to poor road conditions. Understanding common bicycle accidents at intersections in Tampa can help you stay safe. Knowing where these crashes happen can also help you understand common causes of bicycle accident at intersection causes, which in turn can point to who may be liable for your injuries after an accident.
At Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers, we want all cyclists to be as safe as possible while riding. Our Tampa bicycle accident attorneys can help you hold a careless driver accountable and recover maximum compensation. Read on to learn more about what commonly causes bicycle accidents at intersections.
Why Intersections Are High-Risk for Cyclists
Some factors that make intersections especially dangerous for Tampa cyclists include:
- Driver misjudgment and failure to yield – Drivers often underestimate a cyclist’s speed or assume the cyclist will stop or yield. These assumptions are especially dangerous during left turns across the cyclist’s path. Similarly, drivers may proceed without noticing or properly gauging the speed and distance of a nearby cyclist at four-way stops or uncontrolled intersections.
- Limited visibility and blind spots – Cyclists are smaller and easier to overlook, especially when they’re riding beside or behind larger vehicles. At intersections with heavy traffic, drivers may focus more on other cars and fail to scan for bikes in crosswalks, bike lanes, or on the shoulder. This lack of vigilance makes it harder for drivers to see and avoid cyclists.
- Right-turn conflicts – A frequent cause of bicycle intersection accidents involves a vehicle turning right while a cyclist continues straight through the intersection. If the driver fails to check their mirrors or signals too late, they might hit the cyclist from the side or cut off the cyclist unexpectedly. This situation is especially dangerous when bike lanes run alongside vehicle lanes.
- Unfavorable or confusing signal timing – Some intersections have signals that don’t detect bicycles or change too quickly. In these situations, cyclists may find themselves stuck without a green light or feel pressure to cross unsafely. Quick signals can also catch cyclists mid-crossing, increasing the risk of crashes.
- Complex or unclear intersection designs – Intersections with multiple lanes, faded markings, or unclear signage can create confusion. Both drivers and cyclists may misinterpret who has the right-of-way, leading to poor decisions or sudden maneuvers that can cause crashes.
Top Causes of Bicycle Accidents at Intersections
The most common reasons behind bicycle accidents at intersections include:
Failure to Yield
Drivers frequently fail to yield the right-of-way to cyclists at intersections. This often happens during left turns when drivers cross into the cyclist’s path. It can also occur at stop signs or uncontrolled intersections when a driver rolls through without checking for bikes.
Distracted Driving
Using a phone, snacking, adjusting the music, or talking to passengers can distract a driver long enough to miss a cyclist in the intersection. Because bicycles are smaller and quieter than cars, they are especially vulnerable when a driver isn’t fully paying attention.
Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
Some drivers ignore red lights or stop signs altogether, either intentionally or because they’re distracted. When this happens at an intersection, drivers can strike cyclists crossing with a green light or after stopping properly.
Unsafe Turns
Improper turning can endanger cyclists, especially when drivers turn right without checking their mirrors or signaling. For example, drivers who turn without checking blind spots may strike a cyclist traveling straight through the intersection. These crashes are especially common in areas where bike lanes run parallel to vehicle lanes.
Speeding
Excessive speeds reduce a driver’s reaction times and increase their stopping distance. At intersections, speeding drivers are more likely to run red lights or fail to see cyclists in time. Higher speeds also cause more severe injuries when crashes happen because cars hit harder the faster they’re moving before impact.
Vehicle Defects
Mechanical failures—such as brake failure, stuck accelerators, or steering malfunctions—can cause a driver to lose control. If this happens near an intersection, the driver may be unable to stop or maneuver in time to avoid hitting a cyclist.
Preventative Tips for Drivers and Cyclists
Cyclists can reduce the risk of accidents by riding predictably and staying visible. Wearing bright clothing and using lights increases visibility, especially at night or in bad weather. Cyclists should also use hand signals to indicate turns or lane changes.
Furthermore, cyclists should avoid weaving between lanes and ride in a straight, steady line. Making eye contact with drivers at intersections can also help cyclists ensure they’re noticed. Finally, cyclists should always obey all traffic signals and signs, even when no vehicles appear to be nearby.
Drivers can help prevent intersection crashes by slowing down and scanning carefully for bicycles, especially before turning or entering the intersection. Checking mirrors and blind spots is essential, especially before making right turns near bike lanes.
Drivers should also avoid distractions and give cyclists plenty of space. Yielding the right-of-way when required and using turn signals early improves safety for everyone on the road.
Drivers should exercise extra caution in low-light or poor-weather conditions. Stopping fully at red lights and stop signs allows drivers time to notice approaching cyclists.
Lastly, patience and attentiveness are key to avoiding preventable collisions. Even a brief lapse in focus can lead to severe injuries when bicycles and motor vehicles share the road.
How Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers Can Help After a Bicycle Crash at an Intersection
At Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers, we understand the devastating consequences for cyclists involved in intersection crashes. We can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and determine who’s liable for your injuries while you recuperate.
Our team will also handle all communication with insurance companies, so you don’t have to. We’ll document the full extent of your injuries and losses, including your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We’re skilled negotiators and’ll be ready to take your case to trial if settlement talks fail.
We don’t get paid unless you win, so there’s no risk to you in calling us. Call (619) 233-5020 now or complete our contact form for a free consultation with one of our Florida bicycle accident lawyers.
