Contact Our Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer for Help With Your Dallas-Fort Worth Personal Injury Claim
No matter how careful a bicyclist is, the road is a dangerous place to drive, walk, or be on. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2019, there were 846 cyclist fatalities, which accounted for 2.3 percent of all traffic fatalities during the year. Seventy-eight percent of all cyclists who died in traffic crashes in 2019 were in urban areas. Over the 10-year period from 2010 to 2019, the average age of cyclists killed in traffic crashes has steadily increased from 42 in 2010 to 48 in 2019. A bicyclist hit by a car may suffer catastrophic injuries that include head trauma and/or paralysis.
Bicyclists are subject to many of the same laws and protections as motorists. If you've recently been hurt in an accident caused by another person's negligence, personal injury attorney Warren Armstrong can help you protect your right to compensation. Contact our office today to discuss your personal injury claim.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents
Understanding the cause of your accident is crucial in determining liability and building a strong case. Some of the most common causes we see include:
- Distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise not paying full attention to the road pose a significant danger to cyclists.
- Failure to yield right-of-way. Many accidents occur when drivers fail to respect cyclists' right-of-way, especially at intersections or when making turns.
- Dooring incidents. These occur when a parked driver opens their car door directly in the path of an oncoming cyclist.
- Unsafe road conditions. Potholes, uneven surfaces, or poorly designed bike lanes can lead to serious accidents.
- Impaired driving. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have reduced reaction times and judgment, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Speeding. Excessive speed reduces a driver's ability to see and react to cyclists on the road.
- Poor visibility. Accidents often occur at dawn, dusk, or night when visibility is reduced.
- Aggressive driving. Some drivers exhibit hostile behavior towards cyclists, leading to dangerous situations.
Potential Injuries From Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-altering trauma. Some common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain Injuries (TBI). Even with a helmet, cyclists are at risk of concussions and more severe brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries. These can result in partial or complete paralysis, dramatically altering a person's life.
- Fractures and broken bones. The impact of a collision or fall can lead to multiple fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, and collarbone.
- Road rash and soft tissue damage. Skin abrasions from sliding on pavement can lead to severe scarring and potential infections.
- Internal injuries. The force of impact can cause damage to internal organs, which may not be immediately apparent.
- Facial injuries. Cyclists may suffer dental damage, eye injuries, or facial fractures.
- Psychological trauma. The emotional impact of a serious accident can lead to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Compensation You May Be Able to Receive After a Bicycle Accident
Every case is unique, but you may be eligible for compensation covering:
- Medical expenses. This includes current and future costs related to your injuries, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages and earning capacity. Compensation for time missed from work and any reduction in your ability to earn income in the future.
- Pain and suffering. Non-economic damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and injuries.
- Punitive damages.In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, additional damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.