Grand Prairie Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicyclists can be vulnerable when sharing the road with cars and trucks. Due to inattention, distracted driving and traffic violations, bicyclists could be severely injured in an accident. Fortunately, when a collision occurs the party responsible may be required to pay the victim compensation.
If you or a loved one were injured in a biking accident due to the negligent actions of another, you may be able to recover your damages via a lawsuit. A Grand Prairie bicycle accident lawyer could help you recover the compensation you need to move forward. Speak to a diligent personal injury attorney to learn about your legal options. En Español.
Duties of Motorists to Grand Prairie Cyclists
Under Texas law, individuals on bikes are owed the following considerations from motor vehicle drivers:
- Obey traffic signals
- Signal before turning
- Make left turns from the left lane
- Do not enter hike-and-bike trails
- Pay attention to bikers who are moving slower than other traffic
- Comply with posted speed limits
Drivers are mandated to act with due care on roads and highways. An Grand Prairie bicycle wreck attorney may discuss the fault of drivers with injured bikers.
Safe Routes to School for People on Bikes
Under Texas Gen. Law, Title 6, §201.614, municipalities are encouraged to participate in a Safe Routes to School Program. As such, new bicycle lanes may be installed and safety hazards identified, so that school children may bike to school free from harm.
Motorists are required to make right turns carefully under §545.103 so that they do not veer in front of children riding their bikes to school. A cycling collision attorney in Grand Prairie may be skilled at handling cases involving children.
Obligations of Bicyclists
Local law places particular responsibilities on pedestrians as well. In fact, many of the same duties as motorists. Cyclists should conduct themselves as follows:
- Use hand and arm signals for turns
- Ride in the same direction as other vehicles on the road
- Keep at least one hand on the handlebars, but preferably two hands
- Allow one rider per bike seat
- Install reflective lights for nighttime riding
- Ride as close to the curb as possible
It is best to speak to a skilled lawyer in Grand Prairie to learn about the rules of the road and the obligations of bicyclists.
Damages in Bicycle Accident Claims
The Civil Practice and Remedies Code solidifies the remedies available to bicycle accident victims. Under these rules, a plaintiff may pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
A claimant might recover compensation for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and costs to repair the bike. Non-economic damages may include loss of enjoyment of life, physical suffering or mental anguish. Speak to a knowledgeable Grand Prairie attorney to determine which type of damages an individual may be eligible to recover in a cycling crash case.
Modified Comparative Negligence
The State of Texas follows a modified comparative negligence theory. Often, the defendant may allege that the plaintiff may have contributed to the accident. If a bicyclist is found to be less than 51 percent at fault for an accident, then they may be eligible to recover compensation. Bicyclists who contribute to their own harm by disobeying these regulations may have their damages award reduced proportionately.
Contact a Grand Prairie Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
A skilled Grand Prairie bicycle accident lawyer might be of assistance if you were involved in a bicycle accident. Cyclists have rights on the road, just like automobile drivers do.
If you have been hurt by a bicycle accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your damages and injuries. Schedule a consultation today to learn about your legal options.