Texas teems with bicyclists, particularly in bigger cities, such as San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and Houston, where most Texans depend on bicycles as their mode of transportation.
But it is unfortunate bicycles don’t offer riders as much protection as cars, and bicycle accidents usually lead to death or serious injuries.
If you get involved in a bicycle accident in Texas, you will be able to get compensated for all the injuries by asking a Fort Worth bicycle accident lawyer to guide you in filing a wrongful death or personal injury claim.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
A bicycle accident attorney understands there are several factors, which may contribute to a bicycle accident. If you get involved in a bicycle crash and sustain injuries, then the following might be the cause of your accident:
- Distractions
- Reckless or speeding driving
- Drunk driving
- Opened doors from a parked car
- Drivers not seeing a cyclist on a roadway
Common Cases and Injuries
According to NHTSA reports, most injuries resulting from bicycle accidents are usually inflicted by cars, followed by accidental crashes/falls, faulty roadways, and occasionally interference from dogs.
Common injuries in people who have been involved in a bicycle collision include death, brain injury, and bone fractures/broken bones.
Every year, about 600 people die nationwide in bicycle/car accidents. Another 40,000 injuries that have been reported are sustained by riding bicycles.
But these national statistics or reports are undervalued. In states like Texas, bicycle crashes are usually reported only in the event of fatalities.
Filing a Case
Every state has a dissimilar timeline in which a victim should file an injury lawsuit. In Texas, you have two years to file a case against the negligent party.
Failure to file a lawsuit within the stipulated timeframe means you will no longer be able to bring the case against the party at fault.
Though there are several exceptions to this law, like when minors are involved. This is why it is best to involve an attorney to know the specific timeframe for filing a lawsuit.
Who is Liable for Bicycle Accidents?
If there is an accident between a car and a bicycle, either party can be liable. The party that caused the accident will be the only one at fault. In regard to accidents, this is normally the party that violates the rule of the road, like speeding, failing to signal a turn, or running a stop sign.
What to Do After the Accident
A bicycle accident is equally serious as a car crash. Just like you would if you were involved in a car accident, it will be best to hire a good attorney to represent your interests and protect your rights. You will also have an obligation to take the following steps:
- Getting to safety
- Seeking medical assistance
- Documenting the damages
- Gathering evidence
- Talking to eyewitnesses
Final Say!
Following a bicycle accident, it is imperative that you quickly act. As time goes by, evidence will likely disappear, and insurance firms may continuously pressure you into accepting their lowball offer.
But you won’t just file a lawsuit on time with a good attorney. You will also get the fair settlement you deserve.