Bicycle accidents can leave you battered, bruised, and facing a mountain of bills. At JCJ Law Group, our bicycle accident lawyers in Houston are absolutely prepared to take on greedy insurers, and cut through the BS, ensuring that you get what you’re owed. Don’t settle for anything less.
Common reasons for bicycle accidents:
Reckless drivers
One of the biggest threats to cyclists is reckless drivers. These individuals may speed, run red lights, or drive under the influence, creating hazardous conditions for everyone around them. Distracted driving, like texting or eating behind the wheel, further increases the risk of accidents. Unlike car accidents, or trucking accident injuries, bicycle accident injuries can be much more severe due to the lack of protection when riding a bike. Motorcycle accidents can also be far more dangerous, leading to more medical issues and higher bills. When a reckless driver causes a bicycle accident, they are typically liable for the damages, and our bicycle accident lawyers in Houston relentlessly pursue them to hold them accountable.
Poor road conditions
Potholes, debris, and poorly marked lanes can spell disaster for cyclists. When a city or municipality fails to maintain safe roads, they can be held responsible for accidents that occur as a result. Additionally, construction zones with inadequate signage or barriers can create dangerous situations for cyclists. In these cases, proving negligence involves detailed investigations and sometimes taking on powerful governmental entities.
Faulty bike equipment
Sometimes, the blame lies with defective bicycle parts. Critical components like brakes, tires, or gears can fail due to manufacturing defects or poor design. When these parts malfunction, they can lead to accidents. In these situations, the bike manufacturer or retailer might be liable for selling a faulty product. Our attorneys understand product liability law and have the appetite to go toe-to-toe with large corporations to get you paid.
Aggressive animals
Unleashed dogs and other aggressive animals can chase and knock cyclists off their bikes, leading to serious injuries. Even a minor encounter with an aggressive animal can cause a cyclist to swerve, fall, or crash. In these situations, the animal’s owner is often liable for the damages caused. Proving liability involves gathering evidence, such as witness statements and veterinary records, to demonstrate the owner’s negligence in controlling their pet. Contact our Houston bike accident lawyers for a free case estimate.
What To Do If You've Been In A Bicycle Accident:
- Ensure your safety by moving out of traffic if possible.
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.
- Check for injuries on yourself and others involved.
- Collect contact information from the driver, witnesses, and other parties.
- Take photos of the accident scene, your bike, and any visible injuries.
- Document the details of the accident, including the time, location, and weather conditions.
- Avoid discussing fault or making statements to anyone except the police.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be apparent.
- Preserve evidence by keeping your damaged bike and gear as they are.
- Contact JCJ Law Group in Houston to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
How Our Bicycle Accident Attorneys Can Help:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly to gather all necessary evidence.
- Identify all liable parties, including drivers, municipalities, or manufacturers.
- Collect witness statements and expert testimonies to support your case.
- Analyze police reports, medical records, and accident scene photos for crucial details.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
- File all required legal documents promptly and accurately.
- Represent you aggressively in court if a fair settlement isn’t reached.
- Advise you on the best legal strategies for your unique situation.
- Fight relentlessly to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and damages.
Contact our bicycle accident lawyers in Houston to get a free case estimate.
Bicycle accidents FAQs
Who can be held liable for a bicycle accident?
Liability in a bicycle accident can fall on various parties depending on the circumstances:
- Reckless drivers can be liable for speeding, texting, or driving under the influence.
- Municipalities can be liable if poor road conditions or inadequate signage caused the accident.
- Manufacturers may be accountable for defective bike parts.
- Pedestrians who step into bike lanes without looking can be held liable.
- Pet owners can be held liable if the accident is caused by their pets.
How can I prove fault in a bicycle accident?
Proving fault in a bicycle accident involves gathering and presenting evidence that shows the other party’s negligence. This can include police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and photos of the accident scene. Medical records and expert testimonies can also support your case by demonstrating the extent of your injuries and how they occurred. Our bicycle accidents lawyer in Houston will collect and organize this evidence effectively to build a strong case.
What types of compensation can I receive after a bicycle accident?
Victims of bicycle accidents can seek various types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses for both immediate and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages if you’re unable to work
- Property damage for any damage to your bike and gear
- Compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any long-term disability
- Punitive damages for extreme cases of negligence or recklessness
How long do I have to file a claim after a bicycle accident?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a bicycle accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to initiate legal action against the responsible parties.
What if I can't afford a lawyer?
At JCJ Law Group, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any upfront fees. We only get paid if we win your case and secure compensation for you. This ensures that our interests are aligned with yours, and we are motivated to fight aggressively for your rights. Remember, getting 70% of something sure beats 100% of nothing.
How long will it take to resolve my bicycle accident case?
The time it takes to resolve a bicycle accident case depends on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the other party to settle. Some cases are resolved in a few months, while others may take a year or more if they go to trial. Our expert bicycle accident lawyers in Houston will guide you through the entire legal process until your case is fully resolved.
What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?
If the driver responsible for your accident doesn’t have insurance, you may still have options. Your own auto insurance policy may include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which can provide compensation. Additionally, you might pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Our lawyers will explore all possible avenues for collecting damages.
Will my case go to trial?
Not all bicycle accident cases go to trial. In fact, most are settled out of court through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, taking the case to trial may be necessary. At JCJ Law Group, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial, ensuring we are ready to fight for your rights in court if needed.
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