The temperate climate in Sugar Land allows many residents to ride bicycles to commute or exercise. However, riding a bike on the road with other motor vehicles can be dangerous. Drivers often disregard cyclists and fail to take caution when traveling near them.
If you were injured in a crash, you may benefit from reaching out to a Sugar Land bicycle accident lawyer. The dedicated personal injury lawyers at our firm could support you as you pursue an accident claim. Call our office today to learn how retaining an attorney could improve your chances of success in your case.
Negligence and Liability in Bicycle Accidents
All motorists have a duty to drive safely and take caution around others on the road, including drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Anyone who violates traffic laws or operates their vehicle in an unsafe manner is in breach of that duty. If a negligent driver cause causes an accident and injures a bicyclist, they may be liable for those damages.
Bike riders also have a responsibility to follow traffic laws. If they do not adhere to local laws, they may partially liable for the accident. It is important to note that an individual bearing some fault could still recover damages from other negligent parties.
A bicyclist who is 50 percent or less at fault for the accident that caused their injuries may seek a reduced damages award. However, if they are more than 50 percent responsible for the accident, they will be barred from collecting compensation. A nearby lawyer could help a plaintiff examine liability after a bicycle accident.
Recovering Damages in Bike Injury Claims
Bicyclists have little protection against much larger motor vehicles like trucks and are much more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries in a collision with a car. If a plaintiff can prove another party is primarily responsible for the accident, they may be able to seek compensation.
Recovering economic damages is one of the most important types of compensation. Injured bicyclists often incur significant financial losses due to emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation expenses, and ongoing medical care. Plaintiffs may also be able to recover compensation for other expenses such as lost wages or damage to their bicycles.
Individuals facing life-threatening or permanent injuries following an accident could file for non-economic damages as well. A bicycle accident attorney in the area may be able to assist plaintiffs seeking compensation for loss of enjoyment of life, pain and suffering, and other emotional losses.
Time Limit to File a Case
If an injured cyclist fails to act quickly after an accident, they risk losing the chance to hold the negligent parties responsible for their damages. Under Texas Civil Practices and Remedies Code § 16.003, there is a limited timeframe in which an individual can file a personal injury claim.
Potential plaintiffs have only two years from the date of the accident to file suit. Though there are some exceptions to this time limit, it is best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible when pursuing a bicycle accident claim.
Reach out to a Sugar Land Bicycle Accident Attorney
Recovering from the injuries and other damages sustained in a bicycle accident may require extensive medical care and financial support. A Sugar Land bicycle accident lawyer could help you recover compensation for your losses.
Our team could support you through all aspects of your claim. Call our office today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney.