Bicyclists who share the road with other motorists are constantly at risk of serious injuries. The speed at which motor vehicles can travel, as well as their weight and size, makes them extremely dangerous when operated by a negligent driver. Cyclists who are struck by a vehicle are likely to suffer catastrophic injuries and damages. A successful personal injury claim could help you win substantial compensation for what you have endured.
Speak to an experienced Houston bicycle accident lawyer to get the help you need. Our attorneys are available for a consultation of your case.
Bicycle Collisions with Motor Vehicles
Cyclists in Houston are commonly harmed in accidents as a result of a motor vehicle operator’s negligence. Drivers of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more often do not respect a bicyclist’s right to share the road. A bike rider is permitted to share many of the same roads as other drivers, but this can create a dangerous situation when a motorist does not exercise reasonable care.
A driver’s lack of care or reckless behavior may injure or kill a bicyclist. Common examples of driver negligence leading to biking accidents include:
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Reckless operation offenses
- Speeding
- Failure to account for weather conditions
- Following too closely
- Failure to check blind spots
- Failure to yield to cyclists
Injuries Due to Defective Bikes and Equipment
While motor vehicle drivers are often responsible for Houston bicycle accidents, manufacturers may also be to blame when they design, produce, and sell defective bikes or bike parts. According to Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code §82.001, a cyclist who suffers preventable injuries due to defective parts may file a product liability claim against a negligent manufacturer.
A bicycle may be defective for many different reasons. For example, if the frame of the bike is faulty in its construction, it could snap and cause a wreck. The brakes may give out, or the gears may lock up. A defective chain could snap and entangle the bike’s wheels. When the bike or its part are to blame for the accident, the manufacturer may be responsible.
The same is true for defective helmets, which cause many injuries every year. A defective helmet will not protect a bike rider and may fail to provide the life-saving cushioning and impact resistance it is supposed to. When the manufacturer designs or produces a defective helmet, they may be liable for any additional injuries that occur in an accident.
Recovering Compensation after a Biking Accident
Regardless of how exactly a cyclist suffers injuries, they may file a civil claim for compensation if negligence was the cause. The damages awarded in a successful Houston bike crash accident may cover a cyclist’s economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages include a bike rider’s past and future medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages would cover intangible losses such pain and suffering and emotional anguish. However, a cyclist’s time to file a claim is limited, so it is important to seek legal representation as soon after a biking accident as possible.
Work with a Houston Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
A bicycle accident is incredibly serious and can cause you great harm. You deserve to have your case fully analyzed by a qualified legal team. You may learn that you are entitled to substantial compensation from liable parties.
Speak with a dedicated Houston bicycle accident lawyer today to learn more about your rights and options. Contact us today for a consultation.