Houston’s vast urban landscape, thriving neighborhoods, and active outdoor culture attract many cyclists who enjoy riding amidst the city's busy streets and scenic areas. However, as Houston grows and traffic intensifies, so do the risks faced by cyclists sharing the roads with cars and trucks. The increase in vehicles combined with limited dedicated bike infrastructure in some parts of the city has made bicycle accidents a growing concern.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, contact Falcon Law Group. Our experienced Houston bicycle accident attorneys are ready to stand by your side and guide you through every step of the legal process.
Why Bicycle Accidents Are Concerning in Houston
Houston experiences a high volume of traffic on major thoroughfares and neighborhood streets, creating hazardous conditions for cyclists. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, the city has seen a rise in bicycle accidents in recent years, reflecting the urgent need for cyclists to understand their rights and have strong legal support if involved in a crash.
Navigating the Legal Process
Recovering from a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when injuries affect your daily life. At Falcon Law Group, we walk this path with you, providing clear guidance through each stage of your case. Our firm is founded on honesty and integrity, and we treat every client like family—giving your case the attention and respect it deserves.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Houston
Many bicycle accidents result from negligent or careless driving. While cyclists strive to safely navigate Houston’s streets, motorists sometimes fail to share the road responsibly.Â
Understanding common accident causes can help promote safer practices:
- Drifting Into Bike Lanes: Motorists may unintentionally or carelessly enter bike lanes, posing serious risks to cyclists.
- Failure to Yield When Turning Left: Drivers turning left may not see oncoming cyclists, leading to collisions.
- Rolling Through Stop Signs: Ignoring stop signs at intersections where cyclists cross can result in crashes.
- Cutting Off Cyclists During Right Turns: Drivers sometimes miss cyclists in their blind spots when making right turns.
- Tailgating: Vehicles following too closely reduce reaction time if the cyclist suddenly slows or stops.
- Pulling Out Without Checking for Cyclists: Drivers entering the roadway from driveways or parking lots who fail to check for bikes cause many accidents.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed cuts reaction time and control, especially dangerous around smaller, less visible bicycles.
- Distracted Driving: Phone use, eating, or other distractions behind the wheel increase the risk to vulnerable cyclists.
Types of Bicycle Accidents We Handle
Recognizing the types of bicycle accidents common in Houston helps cyclists and drivers stay alert:
- Right Hook Accidents: Motorists turn right directly in front of a cyclist going straight.
- Left Cross Accidents: Vehicles turning left cross paths with oncoming cyclists at intersections.
- Dooring Accidents: A parked car’s opened door strikes an oncoming cyclist.
- Rear-End Collisions: A vehicle crashes into a cyclist from behind after following too closely.
- Sideswipe Accidents: Motorists passing too close hit or graze cyclists.
- Intersection Collisions: Accidents happen when drivers run red lights, fail to yield, or turn without noticing cyclists.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: Some drivers flee after striking cyclists, leaving victims without immediate help.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
Cyclists face serious injuries due to their exposure on the road, including:
- Head Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Internal Injuries
- Road Rash
- Facial Injuries
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Psychological Trauma
Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
- Immediate Medical Attention: Get prompt medical care, even if you feel fine at first.
- Collect Information: Gather the other party’s contact and insurance info and take photos of the scene.
- File a Police Report: This official record supports your compensation claim.
- Consult a Lawyer: Before discussing with insurers, get legal advice to protect your rights.
Acts of Negligence That Cause Bicycle Accidents
Driver negligence such as texting, speeding, failing to yield, running red lights, and impaired driving often place cyclists at risk. Houston’s busy urban environment makes vigilance essential for both motorists and cyclists.
What Damages Can Be Recovered After a Bicycle Accident?
Victims may be entitled to recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in some cases, punitive damages depending on the circumstances.
Why Choose the Falcon Law Group?
You have a choice in legal representation. We stand apart through fierce advocacy combined with empathy and respect. Every client is treated like family. Whether your case is small or complex, it gets our dedicated attention.
Contact a Houston Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
Facing the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Falcon Law Group, our skilled bicycle accident attorneys are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Reach out now for a free consultation. Let us guide you through the legal process with honest, compassionate support.
Our personal injury attorneys proudly serve Houston and nearby communities, including Sugar Land, Pasadena, Pearland, The Woodlands, Baytown, and Cypress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if the accident was partially my fault?
Texas uses a “modified comparative fault” system, allowing you to recover damages even if partially at fault, though your award may be reduced accordingly.
How long do I have to file a claim?
You have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury suit in Texas. Acting quickly preserves your rights.
Can I sue the city if poor road conditions caused the accident?
Yes, but these cases are complex and require timely legal action.
Can I recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Not wearing a helmet does not automatically prevent recovery, but it may affect the amount due to comparative negligence.
