San Antonio Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Fighting For Bicycle Accident Victims in Texas

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, get in touch with a San Antonio bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Texans know that aggressive drivers looking for a parking spot or distractive drivers can cause a serious traffic collision, subjecting bicyclists to severe or fatal injuries. At Alamo City Law Firm, we are committed to delivering comprehensive legal support to victims of bicycle accidents. We aim to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost earnings, and other damages.

Call Alamo City Law Firm today at (726) 227-4766 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our bicycle accident attorney in San Antonio.

Texas Bicycle Accident Statistics

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) keeps data on fatal and serious injuries throughout our state. TxDot recorded the following statistics about cycling accidents in 2018:

• There were 258 bike accidents resulting in serious injury.
• Of these cycling accidents, 72 people lost their lives as a result.

Also, in 2018, TxDOT data shows the total number of bicycle accident injuries was up almost 11% from 2017, and most accidents involving serious injuries occurred in urban neighborhoods. What’s clear is that San Antonio’s current population boom and inner-city development may contribute to an elevated risk of injury resulting from a bicycle accident.

Texas Accident Data Trends

Certain trends make cycling a riskier activity during specific times of the day in certain areas of the city:

• Most accidents involving injuries occur between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays during rush-hour traffic.
• Most collisions occur in urban neighborhoods where utilizing a bicycle to get to and from work is more common.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

Texan bicyclists enjoy riding for leisure and exercise. Many of our San Antonio residents, however, rely on bicycles as transportation to school and/or work. Precautions should be taken even on clear, calm streets as the conditions of the roads themselves can be dangerous for bike riders.

Texas law requires motorists and cyclists to take precautions to prevent such accidents. For example, all bike riders are required to utilize proper hand signals for turning or stopping, and to ride in the same directions as traffic. Even when bike riders take these precautions, however, accidents happen.  
Common causes of bike accidents include:

• Motorists failing to notice bike riders
• Bicyclists not observing rules and regulations of the road
• Motorists driving distracted
• Driving or riding under the influence of alcohol
• Bicyclists riding without reflective gear
• Motorists or cyclists turning when it is unsafe
• Drivers not yielding to cyclists when required

Common Injuries in Bicycle Accidents

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Head Injuries: Even with a helmet, cyclists are vulnerable to head injuries such as concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can have long-term effects on cognitive function and quality of life.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Collisions often lead to spinal cord injuries, which could result in partial or full paralysis. Such injuries require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, significantly impacting the victim’s lifestyle.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Cyclists frequently suffer fractures in their arms, legs, wrists, and ribs. These injuries can be incredibly painful and could require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, which include sprains, strains, and deep bruising, are common in bicycle accidents. Though they may seem less severe, these injuries can cause significant pain and require ongoing treatment.
• Internal Injuries: The effect of a bicycle accident can result in internal injuries, such as organ damage and internal bleeding. These injuries are particularly dangerous as they may not be instantly apparent and can be life-threatening without prompt medical attention.
• Road Rash: When a cyclist is thrown off their bike, they can suffer road rash – severe abrasions caused by sliding on the pavement. These injuries could lead to serious infections and scarring.

What To Do Following A Bicycle Accident

Seek Medical Attention: Bike accidents can be severe, even when the rider believes they are not hurt. Symptoms of serious injuries may seem minor early on. If necessary, somebody should drive you to a hospital or call 911 to get an ambulance to the crash scene. Responders will get you to an emergency if necessary. If hospital care is not required, be sure to see your primary care physician (PCP) as soon as possible.

Call the Police: Immediately call law enforcement to the scene and request a report detailing the events that caused the crash. Your accident attorney will use the report in preparing your claim.

What Damages Could be Recovered in a Bicycle Accident Claim in Texas?

Damages that could be recovered may include:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation can be sought for all medical costs related to the accident. This includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor appointments, physical therapy, medications, and any future medical care that may be required.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries stop you from working, you may be entitled to recover lost wages. This includes not only the income you have already lost but also any future earnings you will be incapable to earn because of your injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Victims may seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional misery caused by the accident. This can encompass a broad range of experiences, from the trauma of the accident itself to ongoing suffering from chronic pain or emotional issues like anxiety and depression.
• Property Damage: Bicycle accidents often significantly damage the bicycle and other personal property. Victims can be compensated for repairing or replacing their bikes and any other items damaged in the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: In cases where the victim’s injuries have significantly impacted their relationship with their spouse or family, compensation may be available for loss of consortium. This covers the loss of companionship, affection, and support due to the injuries.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the accident was caused by particularly egregious behavior, such as reckless driving or DUI, punitive damages may be awarded. These are intended to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Contact Our San Antonio Bike Accident Attorney Today

Bike accidents have the potential to be very serious, especially when motor vehicles are involved. It is important to seek representation by an experienced personal injury lawyer in San Antonio. A skilled attorney will have experience representing bike riders and will work to get you the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will deal with insurance companies and investigators on your behalf.

Let us guide you through the legal process. Dial (726) 227-4766 to schedule your personalized consultation with our San Antonio bicycle accident lawyer.