Houston Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Even if you are an experienced cyclist with a well-maintained bike and all the necessary safety equipment, a negligent driver can cause you serious harm.

When a distracted, intoxicated, or otherwise reckless driver crashes into a cyclist, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be devastating.

If you have been injured in a bicycle wreck in Houston, you can seek compensation for any injuries and property damage with the help of a Houston bicycle accident lawyer.

Bikes are a healthy, economical, and environmentally safe mode of transportation.

In a perfect world, bicycling would be encouraged for all, and roadways would be designed with bicyclists’ safety in mind. Sadly, the opposite is often true. Cyclists may have no choice but to share dangerous roadways with their motorized counterparts.

Why Do You Need a Bicycle Accident Lawyer if You’ve Been Injured in Houston?

If another’s negligence has caused you harm, it is in your best interest to contact an injury attorney immediately.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we have represented countless clients in bicycle wreck injury cases, and we have an impressive track record of obtaining substantial settlements.

Your attorney will investigate the details of your case, gather pertinent evidence, and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. The last thing you want to do after a traumatic event is deal with merciless insurance companies.

In fact, it is in your best interest to not talk to the other party’s insurance company without legal representation. It is the insurer’s job to pay out as little as possible, and they can use your words against you to reduce or deny your claim.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys we know how the insurance companies think, and we will work tirelessly to negotiate a fair settlement. Although our goal is to settle out of court, we are prepared to go to trial if necessary.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accident Injuries in Houston

Bike accidents have a million potential causes, but the most common scenarios involve:

Dooring accidents

Dooring occurs when the door of a parked car opens into a cyclist’s path. These accidents are prevalent in busy, urban areas where cyclists have no choice but to ride near parked cars. The driver must check for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles before opening their door.

Sideswiping accidents

When a motor vehicle driver attempts to pass a cyclist but fails to leave enough space between them, the cyclist may be side-swiped by the passing car or truck. Drivers should always leave plenty of space when trying to overtake a bicyclist.

Read-ending accidents

These accidents are commonly attributed to distracted driving. When a driver is texting or adjusting the stereo, for example, they may notice that the cyclist ahead has slowed down or stopped. Rear-ending accidents often result in serious injuries or death. 

Right and left cross accidents.

These collisions occur when a car or truck crosses the path of a cyclist in an intersection or while exiting a driveway. Distracted driving is the primary cause of right-and-left-cross accidents.

Another typical bicycle-traffic collision occurs when a vehicle turns right, and a cyclist on the right side is hidden in the driver’s blind spot.

Regardless of how your accident occurred, a Houston bike wreck injury lawyer can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

How to Prevent Becoming a Bicycle Accident Statistic

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a total of 341 bicyclists were killed in crashes involving motor vehicles over the last five years and an additional 2,173 bicyclists have been injured in traffic accidents.

Although bike accidents can occur in any location and at any time of day, they are most common in the evening, between the hours of 6 pm and 9 pm, and 75 percent of bicyclist deaths occur in urban areas.

Men are eight times more likely to be killed in bicycle accidents than women, and more than one-third of all cyclist traffic fatalities involve alcohol.

Follow the safety tips below to dramatically reduce your risk of being seriously injured or killed in a bicycle accident.

1. Maintain Your Bicycle: 

Ensure your bike is in good working condition by regularly checking the tires, brakes, lights, and chain. A well-maintained bike is easier to control and reduces the risk of mechanical failures.

2. Wear Protective Gear: 

Always wear a properly fitted helmet to protect your head from serious injuries. Brightly colored clothing and reflective gear can improve your visibility to motorists.

3. Ride Predictably and Use Hand Signals: 

Follow the rules of the road, ride with the traffic flow, and use hand signals to indicate your intentions when turning or changing lanes.

4. Choose Safe Routes: 

Opt for less congested roads with lower traffic volumes and dedicated bike lanes whenever possible.

5. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions: 

Avoid cycling in extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, or strong winds. These conditions can impair visibility and create hazardous road conditions.

6. Ride Defensively: 

Assume that drivers may not see you, and be prepared to react quickly to avoid accidents. Maintain a safe distance from cars and be aware of your surroundings.

7. Avoid Distractions: 

Refrain from using your phone, listening to loud music, or engaging in other distractions while riding. Focus on the road and be alert to potential hazards.

8. Ride Sober: 

Never ride a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired judgment and coordination significantly increase your risk of accidents.

9. Be Visible: 

Use lights and reflectors, especially during low-light conditions, to make yourself more visible to motorists.

10. Be Aware of Hazards: 

Watch out for potholes, debris, construction zones, and other potential hazards on the road.

Why hire Ryan DeHoyos as your bicycle accident lawyer?

Ryan A. DeHoyos has been an established face in the courtrooms of Houston for over a decade. In recent years, he has represented local families affected by personal accident injuries in the city and the surrounding areas.

Ryan went to South Texas School of Law and graduated with a Doctor of Jurisprudence in 2009. Upon graduation, Ryan worked for a local law firm and several large businesses to hone his litigation and trial skills, and today he uses this experience and his holistic understanding of legal matters to obtain favorable results for his clients.

His knowledge and understanding of the local court system, the associated procedures, and the personnel involved can benefit your case.

When you choose Ryan DeHoyos to manage your case, you can expect the following:

Key Benefits of Choosing Ryan DeHoyos:

Personalized Approach: 

Ryan offers compassionate and personalized legal representation tailored to your specific needs.

Proven Track Record: 

Ryan has consistently achieved favorable client outcomes and has a successful history of handling bicycle accident cases.

Legal Expertise: 

Ryan’s extensive knowledge of bicycle accident laws and procedures ensures your case is handled precisely and efficiently.

Negotiation Skills: 

Ryan is a skilled negotiator, adept at securing fair settlements from insurance companies.

Trial Readiness: 

Ryan is prepared to litigate your case in court to protect your rights if necessary.

Client-Centric Approach: 

Ryan prioritizes open communication and keeps you informed throughout the legal process.

Compassion and Support: 

He understands the physical and emotional challenges you face and provides unwavering support.

Ryan DeHoyos will fight for your best interests but you still retain control of the ultimate decision: whether to accept a settlement or proceed to a trial. His advice and guidance can prove invaluable when making this decision.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Houston

Contact a Houston bike accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Suppose you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident. In that case, immediate action is crucial to protect your rights and maximize your potential for compensation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, seeking medical attention immediately is essential. Some injuries may not be apparent immediately, and delaying treatment can worsen your condition.  
2. Contact Emergency Services: Call 911 to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance. This will create an official record of the incident.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bike or vehicle. This visual evidence can be crucial in proving fault and determining liability.
4. Gather Information: Collect contact information from witnesses and the other vehicle’s driver involved in the accident. This information can be valuable when building your case.
5. Avoid Discussing the Accident: Refrain from discussing the accident with anyone, including insurance adjusters, until you’ve consulted with a lawyer. Your statements can be used against you if you don’t have legal representation.
6. Contact a Houston Bicycle Accident Lawyer: Contact a Houston bike accident lawyer immediately. They can guide you through the legal process, help you gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the compensation you deserve.

Who Is At Fault If a Car Hits a Bicyclist in Houston?

Determining fault in a bicycle accident involving a motor vehicle can be complex. 

In Houston, the car’s driver is often held liable if they have acted negligently, violating traffic laws or failing to exercise caution. 

However, the fault is only sometimes clear-cut. Sometimes, the driver and the cyclist may share responsibility for the crash. To determine fault, several factors need to be considered:

Was the driver distracted? 

Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or not paying attention are at high risk of hitting bicyclists. If the driver is distracted, they are typically held responsible.

Did the driver fail to yield the right-of-way? 

Bicyclists in Houston have the same rights to the road as other vehicles. If a motorist fails to produce when the cyclist has the right-of-way, the motorist is likely at fault.

Was the cyclist following traffic laws? 

In some cases, bicyclists may share responsibility if they do not follow the road rules. For example, if a cyclist runs a red light or is riding against traffic, they could be found partially at fault.

Texas follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that even if a bicyclist is partially responsible for the accident, they may still recover compensation if they are less than 51% at fault. However, the total compensation would be reduced by their percentage of fault.

Ultimately, proving fault requires a thorough investigation, including gathering witness statements, traffic camera footage, and expert accident scene analysis. 

Working with an experienced Houston bicycle accident lawyer can help determine who is responsible for your injuries and pursue compensation.

Types of Compensation for a Bike Accident in Houston

If you have been injured in a bike accident due to another’s negligence, you have a right to seek compensation for any damages suffered.

Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages. The most common damages awarded in bicycle accident cases include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability
• Property damages
• Wrongful death

If you have been injured in a bike wreck, a Houston injury lawyer can help you protect your rights.

Bicycle Accident Laws in Houston

In Texas, bicyclists must obey the same rules of the road as drivers of other vehicles, including signaling before making a right or left turn.

Bikes must be well-maintained, and nighttime riding is not permissible unless the bike is equipped with a headlight, and a red reflector or red lamp visible from a minimum of 500 feet.

As long as cyclists obey the rules of the road, including riding with the flow of traffic, they are permitted to share the roadways with motor vehicles.

Motorists have a duty of care to take reasonable precautions to protect the safety of those with whom they share the road. If they fail to do so, they are negligent and may be found liable for any resulting damages.

Bicycle Safety Campaign

While sharing the road is the responsibility of drivers and cyclists, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recognizes cyclists’ vulnerability. 

Their commitment to bicycle safety is evident in their ongoing safety campaigns, which aim to educate both drivers and cyclists on how to share the road safely. 

Bicycle Accident Statistics in Houston

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a total of 341 bicyclists have been killed in crashes involving motor vehicles over the last five years. An additional 2,173 bicyclists have been injured in traffic accidents.

Men are eight times more likely to be killed in bicycle accidents than women, and more than one-third of all cyclist traffic fatalities involve alcohol.

According to data compiled by KHOU, bicycle crashes have sharply increased across the city in recent years.

Here is a breakdown of bicycle accident statistics in Houston:

Year	Bicycle Accidents	Injuries	Fatalities
2018	492	426	15
2019	515	438	13
2020	541	452	14
2021	564	460	16
2022	598	487	18

While the number of accidents has gradually increased, a troubling trend is that more than 75% occur in urban areas, particularly neighborhoods lacking proper cycling infrastructure.

Additionally, most accidents happen between 6 pm and 9 pm, highlighting the dangers of riding in low-light conditions.

One vital safety concern in Houston is the need for dedicated bike lanes and proper signage to protect cyclists from fast-moving traffic. 

As Houston expands, advocacy groups call for increased investment in bicycle infrastructure and public awareness campaigns to address these growing dangers.

Statute of Limitations on Bicycle Accident Injury Claims in Houston

Remember that in Texas, the statute of limitations on all personal injury cases is two years.

If you fail to file a claim within that time frame, your claim will likely be dismissed.

Sec. 45-44. – Vulnerable road users:

Texas also has specific laws protecting vulnerable road users, such as bicyclists. For example, Section 45-44 of the Houston Code of Ordinances outlines protections for cyclists, making it illegal for vehicles to interfere with bicyclists’ right-of-way in certain situations.

Bicycle Accident Frequently Asked Questions in Houston

Who is responsible for paying my medical bills after a bicycle accident?

In Houston, the driver at fault for the accident is typically responsible for paying your medical bills through their insurance company. However, you share some level of responsibility for the accident. In that case, your compensation may be reduced under Texas’s comparative fault laws. Consulting with a Houston bicycle accident attorney can help determine your legal options.

Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet during the accident?

Yes, you can still recover compensation even if you weren’t wearing a helmet during the accident. However, not wearing a helmet might affect your compensation, primarily if the insurance company or court argues that your injuries were more severe because you were not protected. Texas does not have a universal helmet law for adults, so it is not illegal to ride without one.

How long do bicycle accident cases take to resolve?

The timeline for resolving a bicycle accident case depends on several factors, including the case’s complexity, the severity of your injuries, and whether the insurance company is willing to settle. Some cases are resolved within months, while others may take over a year if litigation is necessary.

What kind of compensation can I recover after a bicycle accident?

After a bicycle accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for various types of damages, including:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage (for your bicycle and other belongings)
• Emotional distress

For more detailed advice and legal representation, consult a Houston bicycle accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and help secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Houston Bicycle Accident Lawyer at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Today

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, the skilled legal team at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help.

Our compassionate, knowledgeable lawyers have extensive experience with bike wreck injury lawsuits, and we have an impressive track record of obtaining compensation for our clients. Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys today at (832) 745-4878 for a free and confidential consultation about your case.

Bicycle Accidents in Houston Infographic