Bicyclists are expected to share the road with other vehicles. Unfortunately, cars and trucks do not always follow the law or watch out for those around them, resulting in terrible collisions. It is essential to follow the rules of the road when cycling because you are more at risk of serious injury in a crash.
If you get into an accident while riding your bike, consult with a lawyer about traffic laws for bicyclists in Houston and how they could affect your lawsuit. Our seasoned cyclist wreck attorneys could help build a strong case on your behalf.
What to Know About Traffic Laws That Apply to Cyclists
Bicycles are considered vehicles under Texas law. This means they have the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists. There are specific laws about what to wear when cycling, as well as where and when a person can ride, including:
- Ride as near to the right of the roadway when the pace is slower than that of the traffic
- Riders can use any operational path for bikes adjacent to a roadway
- Slow down and come to a complete stop at stop signs and traffic devices signaling red
- Signal when turning or coming to a stop
- Bikes must have a front white light visible at night from 500 feet and a rear red reflector visible from 300 feet or lamp visible from at least 500 feet
- Riders can be alongside another cyclist if traffic is not blocked by doing so
- Each saddle must carry one person only
- Bikers must have at least one hand on the handlebars
Cyclists may also use an entire lane when they are:
- Traveling at the average speed of traffic
- Overtaking and passing
- Preparing to turn
- Dodging hazards or unsafe conditions
- Traveling in a lane too narrow to share
- Evading a mandatory turn lane
It is important to be well-versed in the laws that apply to individuals regardless of their vehicle type. After a crash, speaking with a Houston lawyer about the traffic laws that specifically apply to cyclists could help people determine if they have a viable claim.
How Traffic Laws Impact a Cyclist’s Fault
Liability is central to the outcome of an accident case, asking who was responsible for the collision and their percentage of fault.
Due to Texas’ modified comparative fault model, both parties can be held liable for a wreck in some instances. The plaintiff’s total damages are affected by their percentage of fault, so if they are more than 50% at fault for the crash, they cannot recover any damages.
Types of Damages
Economic damages are tangible and correspond with monetary amounts documenting the costs of a person’s losses. These include medical bills, loss of income, and repair costs.
Non-economic damages are subjective and can cover losses like mental anguish, pain and suffering, and reduced quality of life. It is wise to meet with a Houston lawyer who handles bicyclist accident lawsuits to help calculate damages while considering the impact of local traffic laws.
Contact a Houston Bicycle Accident Attorney to Learn About Traffic Laws Affecting a Claim
When you have been in an accident while cycling through no fault of your own, you may be able to seek compensation through legal means. Confronting insurance companies, collecting evidence, and keeping track of deadlines can become overwhelming.
Hire a lawyer to assist you in proving that you followed local traffic laws for bicyclists in Houston. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys could help demand compensation for your losses. Schedule an initial consultation with us today to learn more.