Your bicycle provides a fun and healthy mode of transportation. However, if you choose this method of traveling, there are also risks.
As a continuously growing city, Dallas sees an increase in bicycle commuters and recreational riders, making road safety for cyclists a growing concern. We’re here to help if you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident and are facing serious physical, financial, and emotional challenges.
As your dedicated accident attorney in Dallas, we’ll guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
The Rising Concern of Bicycle Accidents in Dallas
Cycling is a healthy and eco-friendly way to travel, but it can also be dangerous in Texas, especially in Dallas.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were 107 bicycle crashes in Dallas in 2023 alone. In a large city like Dallas, where the infrastructure often favors vehicles over cyclists, accidents can result in severe injuries and fatalities.
Our experience as a top-rated bike accident lawyer in Dallas positions us to advocate effectively for our clients. We work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable, helping you recover medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
Texas Bicycle Laws: Protecting Cyclists on the Road
Understanding Texas bicycle laws is crucial for any cyclist in Dallas. Under Texas Transportation Code § 551.101-104, bicyclists have the same rights and duties as drivers of motor vehicles, meaning that cyclists are legally entitled to share the road.
This law is pivotal in many accident cases, as it reinforces that drivers are responsible for respecting cyclists’ right of way and adhering to safe passing distances.
Our Dallas bicycle accident attorneys use these legal protections to bolster our clients’ cases, showing that any breach by a driver is a direct violation of Texas law. For instance, drivers could be liable for any resulting injuries if they fail to provide the required three feet of space when passing a bicycle.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Dallas
There are several common scenarios we’ve seen as Dallas bicycle accident attorneys that contribute to these devastating accidents:
- Failure to Yield: Many drivers don’t understand that cyclists have the same rights as cars on the road. Failure to yield is a leading cause of bicycle accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, eating, or otherwise distracted are a threat to everyone on the road, especially cyclists.
- Unsafe Lane Changes: With limited bike lanes in Dallas, cyclists often have to share the road with motor vehicles. Drivers’ unsafe lane changes put cyclists at risk.
- Speeding: A speeding vehicle reduces a driver’s reaction time, making it difficult to avoid a collision with a cyclist.
Our team investigates the cause of each accident. As your bicycle crash lawyer in Dallas, we gather evidence, consult with experts, and work to identify the exact cause of your accident so that we can hold the negligent parties accountable.
Types of Injuries in Dallas Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can lead to severe injuries due to the limited protection offered to cyclists. Some of the most common injuries we see include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): TBIs are common, especially if the cyclist isn’t wearing a helmet. Even with helmet use, head injuries can still occur.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis, drastically altering the life of the injured cyclist.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Collisions with vehicles often lead to fractures in the arms, legs, and ribs.
- Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding or organ damage can result from the blunt force trauma of a crash.
We understand that these injuries can result in extensive medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and possible long-term disability. As an accident lawyer in Dallas, our job is to ensure that you receive compensation that covers your immediate needs and future medical expenses.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
After a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, which our Dallas bicycle accident attorneys will aggressively pursue. These may include:
- Medical Expenses: Covering hospital bills, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost Wages: If you’ve missed work or cannot return, we’ll help you recover lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: We understand that accidents impact more than just finances; you deserve compensation for the emotional and psychological toll.
- Property Damage: This includes repair or replacement of your bicycle and any other damaged property.
With our experience as a top-rated bike accident lawyer in Dallas, we know how to build a compelling case for full compensation. We work with medical and economic experts to quantify the impact of the accident on your life accurately.
The Legal Process: How We Support You Every Step of the Way
When you contact us after a bicycle accident, you’re getting a team that’s committed to easing the burden for you. Here’s how our process typically works:
- Free Consultation: We start with a no-obligation case evaluation. Here, we’ll discuss the details of your accident and injuries and answer any questions you may have.
- Investigation: Our team dives into the details of your case, gathering police reports, witness statements, medical records, and photographic evidence.
- Negotiation: We approach the responsible party’s insurance company with a strong demand for compensation, using our in-depth preparation to advocate for a fair settlement.
- Litigation (if needed): If the insurance company won’t cooperate, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group?
When choosing a Dallas bicycle accident attorney, experience and dedication matter. We know that dealing with an injury can be overwhelming, so we prioritize communication and make the legal process as smooth as possible.
Our reputation as a leading bicycle accident attorney near you is built on our commitment to our clients and our record of securing favorable results. With a deep understanding of Texas laws and a client-centered approach, we are here to make a real difference in your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident in Dallas?
Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. Injuries like concussions or internal damage may not show symptoms immediately. Then, contact us. As a top-rated bike accident lawyer in Dallas, we’re here to guide you from the start and handle the legal aspects of your case.
What is the statute of limitations for bicycle accident claims in Texas?
In Texas, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a claim. However, acting sooner allows us to build a stronger case by preserving evidence and speaking with witnesses while details remain fresh.
Can I file a claim if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Yes. Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, meaning you can recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced by your degree of fault. We’ll help you navigate this complex situation to maximize your recovery.
Contact Us Today: Your Dedicated Dallas Bicycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact us at Patterson Law Group. With extensive experience as a Dallas bicycle accident attorney, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you on your road to recovery.
