Are the Roads Safe For Bicyclists

Despite efforts by many bicycle organizations and government agencies, a considerable amount of work must still be done to make roads and streets safe for cyclists. A study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) revealed that hundreds of U.S. cyclists are killed in crashes with motor vehicles. Sadly, almost 91 percent of cyclists killed were not wearing a helmet. According to the IIHS, helmet use has been estimated to reduce the risk of head injuries by 85 percent. The IIHS also reports death among cyclists 16 and older increased in recent years, while death among cyclists younger than 16 declined significantly. Adults between the ages of 35 and 54 represented almost 40 percent of all bicycle collision fatalities in the state, reports the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, it is within your best interest to speak to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Our bicycle accident lawyers understand how devastating an unexpected injury can be. If the bicycle crash injury was caused by the negligent or careless actions of another, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Our firm has helped clients obtain compensation for medical costs, lost wages, lost benefits, disfigurement, shortened life expectancy, and pain and suffering.

Causes of Bicycle Accidents

In most studies, driver negligence has been shown to be the most common cause of accidents involving a cyclist. Common negligent or careless actions by a motor vehicle driver, include:

Backing out before checking mirrors
Inattentiveness
Aggressiveness
Use of drugs or alcohol
Unsafe left-hand turns
Failing to yield the right of way
Driving through a stop sign or red light
Overtaking the cyclist.

Faulty bike parts, such as brakes, handlebars and spokes, are also a common cause of bicycle accidents. Defective brakes, handlebars, or tires can cause a cyclist to lose control of a bike and inadvertently collide with a car, the ground or a stationary object.

Statute of Limitations

Texas has a statute of limitations that places a time limit on filing a personal injury claim. It is important for injury victims to speak with an attorney as soon as possible following an accident. The bicycle accident attorneys at out law firm can advise injured victims of the time limits that apply to their case and ensure their opportunity to pursue monetary compensation from the responsible party or parties is not missed.

Protecting Victims’ Legal Rights

Following a bicycle accident, one of the most important decisions you will make is selecting a lawyer to represent your case. Defense counsels often portray cyclists as reckless individuals who do not follow traffic laws, making it more challenging to prove liability in a bicycle accident case. The injury attorneys in our have many years experience representing seriously injured victims and can help to dispel any question of character. Contact our firm to learn more information about how we can help protect your legal rights.