Katy Bicycle Accident Lawyer

The use of bicycles has gained wide acceptance as a convenient mode of transportation in recent years across the United States. Their slender and lightweight design makes them an appealing choice for people of all ages and backgrounds. Capable of easily weaving through vehicles stuck in traffic, bicycles are among the most economical and efficient options during congested rush hours.

However, as any seasoned personal injury lawyer will explain, bicycles have been involved in thousands of accidents, causing numerous injuries and resulting in tragic loss of life. Unlike motorists who have the protection of a vehicle’s body, bicyclists have no shield against the forces created during a collision. Their bodies absorb the combined impact, rendering bicycle crashes among the potentially most catastrophic incidents on the road. If you have been injured under such circumstances, it is vital to consult with our Katy bicycle accident lawyers to understand how you may seek compensation for your losses.

Bicycle Accident Statistics

According to data released by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are an estimated 400,000 bicycle-related injuries in the United States annually. In the same timeframe, over 840 lives are lost. Alarmingly, a significant proportion of these accidents occur during rush hour (between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.), marking a concerning trend. Additionally, bicycle accidents tend to be more prevalent in urban areas. This pattern is often attributed to the combination of high population density and intense vehicle traffic in these regions.

Major Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Katy

Before proceeding with a bicycle accident lawsuit, it is essential to establish the facts surrounding your crash. Since accidents can occur for various reasons, engaging a skilled Katy bicycle accident lawyer is vital to ensure a thorough investigation. Based on the multitude of cases our attorneys have managed, it is noteworthy that at least 90% of bicycle accident-related deaths and injuries involve collisions with motor vehicles. These incidents are often attributed to:

• Drivers cutting off bicyclists when entering a roadway
• Cyclists making unpredictable turns and maneuvers
• Cyclists riding against oncoming traffic in the wrong lanes
• A driver rear-ending a cyclist
• A motorist running a red light

Many of the scenarios mentioned above happen due to negligence on the part of the motorists. Some prevalent examples of such negligent behaviors include:

• Drunk driving
• Speeding
• Inadequate driver training
• Aggressive driving or road rage
• Distracted driving
• Driver fatigue
• Improper cargo loading

If it is determined that the other driver was negligent in one or more of the ways listed, civil charges may be brought against them. Your Katy bicycle accident lawyer will represent your interests and work to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their negligence.

Other Major Causes of Bicycle Accidents

While motor vehicles are involved in at least 30% of bicycle accidents, numerous other factors can contribute to injuries. These include:

• Collisions with objects on the road, such as debris
• Falling off a bicycle due to poor road conditions or an attack by a dog or other animal
• Defective bicycle parts
• Collisions with pedestrians or other cyclists

Determining the cause of your accident, whether as a passenger or cyclist, is essential for establishing liability. Only by doing so can you hold the responsible party accountable for your damages. If liability is contested, or if you’re uncertain about how the legal process unfolds, it is advisable to consult a knowledgeable Katy bicycle accident attorney.

Liability in a Cycling Injury Case

To recover damages in a personal injury case involving a bicycle accident, you must prove that the defendant was at least 51% responsible for the incident. Assessing the percentage of fault that each party holds can be a complex task. Without the expertise of a qualified Katy bicycle accident lawyer, fully establishing liability may be challenging. Potential defendants in a bicycle accident claim might include:

• Bicycle manufacturers, for supplying defective parts
• Road construction companies, for creating poor road designs
• Local state agencies, for inadequately maintaining roads
• Drivers, for engaging in reckless driving
• Other road users, for exhibiting negligent behaviors

Typically, you must demonstrate a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it’s more likely than not that the defendant was negligent. The responsibility of proof rests with your Katy bicycle accident attorney, who must establish that:

• The defendant owed you a legal duty of care
• The defendant breached that duty through reckless behavior
• The breach directly caused your injuries
• The injuries led to both economic and non-economic damages

By carefully addressing these elements, your legal representative can work to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.

Speak with a Reputable Katy Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve sustained injuries in a bicycle accident, you may be eligible for compensation. The best way to assess your eligibility is to consult with a Katy bicycle accident lawyer from Lone Star Injury Attorneys. We are ready to discuss your specific situation during a free case evaluation session. Book an appointment with us today to explore your legal options.