Injured While Riding a Bicycle – Know Your Rights
Cycling is a healthy, affordable, and environmentally friendly way to travel, but sharing the road with motor vehicles comes with risks. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Texas, understanding your legal rights can help you protect your health, finances, and future.
Texas Law Protects Cyclists
Many people assume bicycles have fewer rights than cars, but that’s not the case. Under Texas law, bicyclists generally have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists. Drivers are expected to share the road safely, remain alert, and avoid actions that could put cyclists at risk. When a driver fails to exercise reasonable care and causes an accident, they may be held legally responsible for the injuries and damages that result.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
The moments following a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can strengthen your potential legal claim. First, seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away.
If you’re able, call law enforcement and request an official accident report. Gather contact information from the driver and any witnesses, and take photos of the accident scene, your bicycle, your injuries, and any property damage. Keep all medical records, receipts, and documentation related to your recovery.
Avoid discussing fault at the scene or posting details about the accident on social media.
You May Be Entitled to Compensation
If another party’s negligence caused your bicycle accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for a variety of losses. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, property damage, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering. In cases involving severe or permanent injuries, compensation may also account for future medical treatment and long-term care needs. Every case is unique, and the value of a claim depends on the specific facts and circumstances surrounding the accident.
Understanding Texas Comparative Fault
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you may still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident, as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. However, your recovery may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 20% responsible for the accident, your recovery would be reduced to $80,000.
Because insurance companies often try to shift blame onto cyclists, having experienced legal representation can make a significant difference.
Don’t Wait to Protect Your Rights
Texas law generally limits the amount of time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering compensation altogether. It’s also important to preserve evidence and begin investigating the accident as soon as possible while witness memories and physical evidence remain available.
IF YOU’VE BEEN INJURED WHILE RIDING YOUR BICYCLE DUE TO SOMEONE ELSE’S NEGLIGENCE, CONTACT THE LAW OFFICE OF BRIAN BRUNSON TODAY FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION.
Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.
We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.
