Bicycle Accidents

Rights And Responsibilities Of Bicycle Operators

Bicycles are treated the same as vehicles in the State of Texas. Texas law gives bicyclists the same rights and responsibilities as any other road user. For bicyclists, this means obeying the same traffic laws, roadway rules, and signals as motor vehicle drivers. For motorists, it means sharing the road and treating cyclists as they would any other vehicle on the road. This also means as a bicyclist you have the same rights as other roadway users.

In Houston, unless a bicycle path is available, bicyclist have a right to ride in the roadway in most situations. Bicycles are required to travel in the same direction as the traffic on the road and should keep as far to the right side of the road as possible. However, there are a few specific instances in which a bicyclist can leave the right side of the road. Motor vehicle drivers are always required to keep at least three feet of distance between them and a bicyclist. To help ensure motor vehicle drivers can locate bicyclist there are certain required safety equipment that must be equipped on bicycles using the road. It is against the law to ride a bike without the proper required safety equipment.

Houston Sidewalk Laws

According to Sec. 45-302 of the Houston Code of Ordinances, it is against the law to ride a bike on a sidewalk within a business district. Therefore, bicyclists in downtown Houston must stay on the roads, unless a bicycle path is available. Where bicyclists are permitted to use sidewalks in Texas, they still must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Further, bicyclists must also give an audible signal, when passing or maneuvering around pedestrians on sidewalks.

Texas Helmet Laws

In Texas, there is no universal law requiring adult bicyclist to wear a helmet. With regards to minors, Houston does always require children under the age of 18 to wear approved bicycle helmets . This is true even if the child is just riding as a passenger on a bicycle. Approved bicycle helmet means the helmet must fit correctly and meet certain standards set by various organizations. One exception to the helmet law for children in Texas is when riding on private land or roadways. In such scenario, children are not required to wear helmets.

Common Reasons For Bicycle Accidents

Some of the most common reasons for bicycle accidents are:

• Failure to yield right of way
• Poor visibility
• Lack of attention by motor vehicle drivers
• Motorists opening vehicle doors without looking
• Aggressive unsafe driving

Common Bicycle Accident Injuries

Nobody ever expects to sustain serious injuries or even a tragic loss from a bicycle accident. It is impossible to prepare for the wide array of physical, emotional, and financial impacts that a tragic bicycle accident can bring on those involved and their families. The physical injuries that result from a bicycle accident vary widely in type and severity. Some of the most common bicycle accident injuries are:

• Fractures
• Cuts, bruises, and abrasions
• Spinal cord injuries
• Dislocated joints
• Muscle, ligament and tendon tears
• Traumatic head and brain injuries

Monetary Compensation For Bicycle Accidents

If you are involved in a bicycle accident that was caused by the fault of somebody else, you can pursue monetary compensation for your damages against the at fault party. Some of the possible economic and non-economic damages you can seek monetary compensation for are:

• Medical expenses and bills
• Loss wages or loss of earning capacity
• Mental anguish
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering
• Inconvenience
• Inability to use a body part
• Inability to enjoy prior daily activities

If you get into a bicycle accident in Houston, speak to a personal injury lawyer about your right to file a claim against the at-fault driver.

Your Houston Bicycle Accident Attorney

Stanley Injury Law, PLLC takes pride in helping Houston residents and visitors get back on their feet after serious bicycle accidents. With the experience, the resources, and the knowledge, attorney Kenneth Stanley is here to help you pursue everything you are entitled to for the injuries you sustained in a bicycle accident. Call today at (832) 402-6008 or go online to schedule a free consultation or submit your case directly for review.