San Antonio, known for its rich history, iconic River Walk, and vibrant neighborhoods, offers a picturesque backdrop for both residents and tourists who enjoy exploring the city on two wheels. As San Antonio continues to develop and its roads become busier, the risks faced by cyclists have significantly increased. The rising number of vehicles, coupled with insufficient cycling infrastructure in some areas, has made bicycle accidents a growing concern.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident contact Falcon Law Group at (516) 618-0411. Our experienced San Antonio bicycle accident attorneys are here to stand by your side and guide you through every step of the legal process.
Why Bicycle Accidents Are Concerning in San Antonio
In San Antonio, bicycle accidents are a concerning issue, especially with the city's growth and development. As the roads become more crowded, cyclists find themselves at a greater risk. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, San Antonio has witnessed a rise in bicycle accidents over recent years, making it even more crucial for cyclists to know their rights and how to proceed if they are involved in an accident.
Navigating the Legal Process
The legal landscape can be daunting, especially when you're recovering from an injury. At the Falcon Law Group, we ensure you're not alone in this journey. We will guide you through each step, demystifying the legal process for you. Our team prides itself on its reputation for honesty and integrity, values we uphold in every client interaction. We are not just attorneys; we consider you part of our family, treating your case with the dignity and respect it deserves.
Common Causes of Bike Accidents in San Antonio
Bicycle accidents in San Antonio are often the result of negligent or careless driving. While cyclists do their best to navigate the busy streets, many motorists fail to share the road responsibly, leading to serious and sometimes life-altering accidents. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help raise awareness and promote safer practices for both drivers and cyclists. Below are some of the frequent causes of bicycle accidents in San Antonio:
Drifting Into Bike Lanes: Bike lanes are designed to offer cyclists a safer space on the road, but accidents often occur when drivers encroach on these lanes. Whether due to distracted driving or lack of attention, vehicles that drift into bike lanes can collide with cyclists, leading to severe injuries.
Failure to Yield When Turning Left: One of the most common scenarios involves a motorist making a left turn without noticing an oncoming cyclist.
Rolling Through Stop Signs: Some drivers fail to come to a complete stop at intersections, believing they can quickly pass through. However, when a cyclist is crossing, this reckless behavior can cause devastating accidents if the driver isn’t able to stop in time and avoid collision.
Cutting Off Cyclists During Right Turns: Drivers making right-hand turns often overlook cyclists in their blind spots. This lack of attention can cause them to turn directly into the cyclist’s path, leaving little to no time for the cyclist to react and avoid the accident.
Tailgating: When a motorist follows too closely, they reduce their ability to stop in time if the cyclist suddenly slows down or stops. Rear-end collisions involving bicycles can result in catastrophic injuries.
Pulling Out Without Checking for Cyclists: Accidents commonly occur when motorists exit driveways or parking lots without properly checking for oncoming cyclists. Failing to look for bicycles before pulling into the street can lead to a direct collision with a cyclist.
Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed and reckless driving are particularly hazardous for cyclists. Speeding drivers have less control over their vehicles and less time to react to cyclists, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Distracted Driving: Distracted drivers, whether texting, eating, or adjusting their GPS, are a significant danger to cyclists. Because of their smaller size and reduced visibility compared to other vehicles, bicycles are particularly vulnerable to accidents caused by drivers who are not fully focused on the road.
Types of Bicycle Accidents We Handle
Bicycle accidents can occur in various ways, and understanding the most common types can help both cyclists and motorists remain vigilant and practice safer road behaviors. Below are some of the most frequent types of bicycle accidents that happen in San Antonio:
Right Hook Accidents: A "right hook" occurs when a motorist makes a right-hand turn directly in front of a cyclist who is traveling straight.
Left Cross Accidents: This type of accident happens when a vehicle turning left at an intersection crosses the path of an oncoming cyclist.
Dooring Accidents: Dooring occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an approaching cyclist.
Rear-End Collisions: Rear-end collisions happen when a motorist follows a cyclist too closely and fails to stop in time when the cyclist slows down or stops.
Sideswipe Accidents: Sideswipe accidents occur when a motorist driving alongside a cyclist fails to leave enough room when passing, grazing or hitting the cyclist.
Intersection Collisions: Intersections are common sites for bicycle accidents, as they often involve multiple directions of traffic. Cyclists may be struck by vehicles that fail to yield, run red lights, or turn without noticing the cyclist's presence.
Hit-and-Run Accidents: In some unfortunate cases, a driver may flee the scene after striking a cyclist, leaving the injured party without immediate assistance.
Bicycle Accident Injuries
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-threatening conditions. Cyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road due to their lack of physical protection compared to motor vehicles. Below are some of the most common injuries sustained in bicycle accidents:
- 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: Your health is paramount. Make sure you seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel okay initially.
- Collect Information: Gather details such as the other party's name, insurance information, and photographs of the scene.
- File a Police Report: This will serve as an official record, which will be crucial when filing for compensation.
- Consult a Lawyer: Before speaking with insurance agents, consult with a legal expert to understand your rights.
Acts of Negligence that Cause Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents are often the result of negligent actions by drivers who fail to follow traffic laws or exercise proper caution around cyclists. Common acts of negligence include distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone while behind the wheel, which reduces a driver's awareness of cyclists on the road.
Speeding and reckless driving also endanger cyclists, as drivers have less time to react and may struggle to control their vehicles. Failing to yield at intersections or while turning, running red lights, and not respecting bike lanes are other frequent examples of negligence that put cyclists at risk.
Additionally, impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs can severely impair a driver's ability to notice and safely share the road with cyclists, leading to devastating accidents.
What Kinds of Damages Can Be Recovered After a Bicycle Accident?
Victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the severity of the injuries sustained. Some of the most common types of damages that can be recovered include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in some cases, punitive damages.
Why Choose the Falcon Law Group?
We understand that you have a choice when it comes to legal representation in San Antonio. What sets us apart is our commitment to you. We're strong advocates who will walk through fire for our clients, but we also take an empathetic approach, treating you as we would a family member. You are not just a 'case number' to us. From the smallest cases to the most complex, each receives our full attention and the level of dignity and respect they rightfully deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if the accident was partially my fault?
Texas operates under a "modified comparative fault" system. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years. Consult a lawyer as soon as possible to understand your specific circumstances.
Can I sue the city if the accident was due to poor road conditions?
Yes, you may have a case against the municipality for negligence. However, these cases are complex and require prompt action.
Can I recover damages in a Texas bicycle accident?
Yes, if the accident was caused by someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to recover damages. This can include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and the potential compensation available to you.
Can I recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet during the accident?
While wearing a helmet is important for safety, not wearing one does not automatically prevent you from recovering damages. However, if you suffered head injuries, the insurance company or opposing party might argue that your injuries would have been less severe if you had worn a helmet, which could impact your compensation.
Contact a San Antonio Bike Accident Lawyer Today
Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. At Falcon Law Group, our experienced bike accident attorneys are here to help you through every step of the legal process. We are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve, including medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
With a proven track record of success, we provide personalized legal representation that prioritizes your well-being. Don't wait—time is critical when it comes to filing a claim and gathering the necessary evidence to support your case.
Contact Falcon Law Group today at (516) 618-0411 to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve after a bicycle accident.
