When a vehicle strikes a bicyclist, the consequences can be life-altering. In Texas, thousands of bicycle crashes occur each year, including over 2,700 reported in 2024 alone. These accidents are often caused by driver negligence and can leave victims facing serious injuries, mounting expenses, and uncertainty about what comes next and how to move forward.
What Constitutes a Bicycle Accident?
A bicycle accident occurs when a cyclist is involved in a collision or incident that results in injury, property damage, or both. These often involve motor vehicles but can also stem from hazardous road conditions, defective equipment, or unsafe infrastructure. In Texas, many bicycle accidents are tied to preventable factors such as driver inattention, failure to yield, or unsafe passing, all of which can place cyclists at serious risk due to their lack of physical protection.
Not every accident leads to a legal claim, but when another party’s negligence causes harm, it may form the basis for a lawsuit. Understanding how the law applies to cyclists is key:
- Bicycles are legally considered vehicles, with the same rights and duties as drivers
- Motorists must yield to cyclists when required and pass at a safe distance
- Cyclists may use a full lane when necessary for safety
- Riders must obey traffic signals and ride in the direction of traffic
- Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule (recovery allowed if under 51% at fault)
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Common Reasons for Bicycle Accidents:
- Driver inattention or distraction
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Unsafe passing by motor vehicles
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Opening car doors into a cyclist’s path (dooring)
- Poor visibility or failure to check blind spots
- Ignoring bike lanes or traffic signals
- Hazardous road conditions, including potholes or debris
- Defective bicycle or vehicle components
What can I be compensated for?
After a bicycle accident, the impact often extends far beyond the initial injury. You may be facing medical bills, time away from work, and physical or emotional challenges. If another party’s negligence caused your accident, Texas law allows you to pursue compensation for the full scope of your losses, both economic and non-economic.
Economic damages
Economic damages address the financial impact of your accident. This can include past and future medical expenses, such as emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and treatment. You may also recover lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working, as well as compensation for reduced earning capacity if your ability to work long-term is affected. Property damage, including repair or replacement of your bicycle, may also be included.
Non-economic damages
Non-economic damages account for the more personal, often life-altering effects of a bicycle accident. This may include physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall disruption to your quality of life. In more serious cases, damages may reflect long-term disability, disfigurement, or the psychological impact of the accident. While these losses are not tied to a specific dollar amount, they are an important part of pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.
Involved in a Bicycle Accident? Let Our San Antonio Attorneys Help
True Law Firm is committed to standing up for injured cyclists across Texas with focused, one-on-one representation. We keep our client numbers low so you always have direct access to your attorney and clear, consistent communication throughout. With a proactive, aggressive approach to litigation and negotiation, we work to pursue the best possible outcome for every client. Schedule your consultation today to discuss your bicycle accident case.
