The popularity of cycling is on the rise, as people adopt the activity as a form of exercise and recreation. With more cyclists on the road, collisions between bicycles and cars are becoming more frequent, often with devastating results for the biker.
If you were injured while riding your bike and the accident resulted from another party’s negligence, a seasoned attorney could help you seek monetary damages from the responsible party. A Pearland bicycle accident lawyer could walk you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Causes of Collisions Between Bikes and Vehicles
The Texas Transportation Code §551.101 allows cyclists the same rights to use the roads as motor vehicles. Cyclists must also obey vehicle and traffic laws like stopping at stop signs, yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks, and signaling their intention before turning and changing lanes. Cyclists must stay to the far-right side of the road when possible but have the right to occupy a lane when there is no shoulder.
Unfortunately, motorists might pass or follow too closely, crowding the cyclist off the road or clipping them. Inattentive drivers might not see a cyclist when backing up or merging lanes, causing a collision. Additionally, motorists making turns often fail to yield to a cyclist with the right-of-way.
Any behavior that is dangerous to a motorist is even more dangerous to a cyclist. Drunk, distracted, and reckless driving cause a significant number of fatalities and severe injuries among bicycle riders. Fortunately, a skilled Pearland attorney could assist an injured bicyclist with holding the negligent driver financially accountable.
Injuries Suffered by Bicyclists in Wrecks
Around two percent of the people killed in traffic accidents every year are cyclists. Even in non-fatal crashes, cyclists could suffer severe, even life-altering injuries, including:
- Severe skin abrasions and road rash
- Shoulder and elbow dislocations
- Facial injuries
- Neck hyperextension and other spine injuries
- Head trauma, including traumatic brain injuries
- Paralysis
- Bone fractures, especially of the wrists, collar bones, and knees
Damages from a responsible party could provide a cyclist with necessary financial support while they attempt to move forward after significant injury. A knowledgeable Pearland attorney could work with an injured cyclist and their family to determine an appropriate sum that adequately compensates their losses.
Statute of Limitations in Pearland
A cyclist has only two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking damages. Failing to file suit within the legal timeframe defeats a claim. Many cyclists might delay finding an attorney hoping to avoid the stress of going to court but having a professional handling the case from the beginning could help ensure the right to sue is preserved if settlement negotiations fail.
Speak with a Pearland Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
Cycling accidents can cause severe emotional and physical trauma, and recovery could be a long, challenging process. Trying to manage the financial implications of your injury creates additional stress.
Allow a Pearland bicycle accident lawyer to carry the burden of obtaining compensation for your injuries, while you direct your efforts toward your physical and emotional recovery. Schedule a consultation as soon as possible.