Many Houston residents enjoy cycling for exercise, enjoyment, and to lower the cost of commuting. While there are many advantages, there are also risks, such as getting into collisions caused by careless motorists.
Knowing the proper steps to take after a bicycle accident in Houston caused by another person’s negligence is essential. The appropriate actions help you protect yourself and hold the liable party responsible. For more information, speak to a diligent bicycle crash attorney today.
The Common Causes of Bicycle Wrecks
Bicycle collisions can happen due to several reasons, with some of the most frequent contributing factors including the following:
- Distracted motorists (e.g. eating, using a cell phone, putting on makeup)
- Failing to yield to a cyclist at intersections or while making turns
- Motorists swinging their doors into the path of cyclists
- Drivers sideswiping or rear-end bike riders due to unsafe passing
- Speeding
- Intoxicated drivers
When a motorist causes harm to a cyclist, the injured party could have a case for compensation in the aftermath. A determined personal injury attorney could review a client’s case and calculate damages.
What to Do After a Bicycle Crash
Cyclists hurt in an accident should take certain precautions to protect their well-being and liberties. Some of the crucial steps after a bicycle crash in Houston include the following:
Move to a Safe Location
Cyclists should move themselves and their bicycles to a safe location if possible. Getting out of the roadway helps prevent further wrecks involving another vehicle.
Seek Medical Care
Receiving immediate medical care must be a top priority, even when a cyclist feels like they did not suffer any harm. Some symptoms of injuries do not appear immediately, and medical records are essential for collecting damages.
Report the Accident to Authorities and Insurance Providers
Reporting the collision to the local authorities is vital so they can investigate and complete a crash report. Those involved should ask the officer for a copy of the report to keep in their records. It is also essential to contact insurance companies to notify them of the relevant details so they can open a claim.
Collect Information and Preserve Evidence
If the cyclist does not require immediate emergency care, they should begin gathering information at the scene. This includes contacts, insurance details, license plate numbers, and witness statements. Preserving evidence, such as photographs of damaged equipment and medical records, is vital for a claim for damages.
Equipment Requirements to Travel at Night
Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities on roadways as motorists, and all must use caution to avoid causing collisions. Per the Texas Department of Transportation, cyclists can only travel during night hours if their bicycles have the proper equipment to prevent wrecks caused by low visibility.
This includes a headlamp on the front of the bike, which must be visible for at least 500 feet. The bike must also have visible red reflector laps on the back for a minimum of 300 feet. During a consultation, an attorney could answer questions about what to do after a bicycle collision in Houston.
Contact a Knowledgeable Attorney for Questions About What to do After a Houston Bicycle Accident
Regular cycling offers many benefits. However, the high number of motorists and cyclists increases the risks of traffic events, which can lead to severe harm and financial losses.
You could pursue damages to aid recovery if you suffered injuries due to another driver’s recklessness. Meet with a compassionate lawyer for legal guidance and to gain more information about what to do after a bicycle accident in Houston.