The number of bicyclists on Texas roads is increasing. More people are bicycling as a form of exercise or sustainable transportation. With the number of bicyclists increasing, so are the number of bike-related accidents. Do you know what to do if you’re in a bicycle accident? Your answer may be to call a Texas bicycle accident lawyer, and you’re correct. However, there are a few other steps you should take. Doing so can help support your case if you file for damages.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Midland
Unfortunately, you’ve been in a bicycle accident. Once you get your bearings, there are a few steps you should follow.
Contact the Police
Immediately following a bicycle accident, contact the police. Who you call depends on where the accident occurs. If it’s within city or town limits, contact the local authorities. If the incident happens in an unincorporated area, you’ll contact either the state highway patrol or the county sheriff’s office.
Don’t leave the scene of the accident. While you don’t need to worry about a possible hit-and-run charge, you still want to stay on the scene. This also applies to the offending driver. If they leave, they’re risking a traffic citation, fines, and potential jail time.
Exchange Contact Information
You want to exchange contact information with the individual responsible for your bicycle accident. This information will also be included in your accident report, but it can take up to a week to obtain a copy. If you have the contact details, your Midland bicycle accident lawyer can start collecting evidence to prove your injury and/or property damage claim.
Get Information From Witnesses
If anyone witnessed your bicycle accident, go ahead and get their contact information. Everyone from your accident attorney to the police and insurance companies will want to talk to any witnesses.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationHow a Midland, Texas Lawyer Helps After a Bicycle Accident
Retaining legal counsel provides invaluable help in pursuing injury claims and property damage following bicycle accidents. An experienced attorney levels the playing field against insurance companies and at-fault parties. Key ways a lawyer assists include:
- Conducting Thorough Investigations – An attorney undertakes in-depth investigations into how and why accidents occur, interviewing witnesses, visiting and photographing accident scenes, reviewing police reports, and gathering digital evidence. This builds a rock-solid case, attributing fault and proving losses.
- Dealing with Insurance Adjusters – Lawyers handle all communications with insurance companies. Adjusters often make low initial offers, hoping claimants will accept without exploring full legal options. Skilled negotiators can secure far more compensation.
- Determining Liability – Laws regarding bicyclist and motorist conduct are complex. Lawyers analyze police reports, traffic laws, and witness accounts to establish the negligent party/parties for injury claims. This saves bicyclists from wrongly assuming blame.
- Filing Claims Correctly – Specific documents must be filed to initiate injury claims. Lawyers ensure compliant filings, preserving legal rights. Missing deadlines jeopardizes receiving compensation.
- Uncovering Additional Liable Parties – Lawyers explore every avenue to identify potentially liable defendants. This includes analyzing vehicle and roadway defects that may have contributed to accidents. Additional defendants mean more insurance policies to claim against.
- Obtaining Compensation for All Losses – Attorneys account for current accident expenses, future costs of medical care, lost income, decreased earning capacity, pain and suffering, and impact on quality of life when calculating case value. Maximum recovery takes this comprehensive view.
- Taking Cases to Trial If Needed – If fair settlement offers cannot be negotiated, lawyers are ready to litigate bicycle injury lawsuits in court. Their trial experience gives bicyclists leverage during out-of-court negotiations.
- Dealing with Health Insurers – Attorneys assist with issues like health insurance liens and protecting injury settlements. They also help if claims are disputed by health insurers.
With an attorney’s knowledge, litigation capabilities, and perseverance, bicyclists can take comfort in knowing their rights are protected at every step of the process after accidents. Lawyers level the legal playing field.
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents in Midland, Texas
What are some common causes of bicycle accidents in Midland?
Some common causes include vehicles failing to yield the right of way, distracted driving, speeding, impairment from alcohol or drugs, poor road conditions, and bicyclist errors.
What types of injuries occur in bicycle crashes?
Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, neck and back injuries, broken bones, road rash, and even death. Internal organ damage is also possible.
What damages can I recover after a bicycle accident?
You may recover medical expenses, lost income, reduced earning capacity, property damage, pain/suffering damages, and wrongful death damages if a loved one is killed. Punitive damages may be awarded if gross negligence like drunk driving, caused the crash.
Should I give a recorded statement to an insurance company after a bicycle wreck?
No. Refuse to provide a recorded statement until you consult with a bicycle accident lawyer, as what you say can be used against you. Let your attorney handle communications.
How long do I have to file a bicycle accident claim in Texas?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the crash to take legal action, or your claim may be prohibited. There are some exceptions if the victim is a minor.
Will my auto insurance rates increase if I make a bike accident claim?
No. Rates are not affected by filing a bicycle accident claim. The at-fault driver’s insurance rates may increase.
What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?
Your own uninsured motorist coverage may help pay damages. An attorney can also investigate other potential sources of recovery in hit-and-run or uninsured driver cases.
Should I accept an early settlement offer from an insurance company?
No. Early offers typically undervalue bicycle accident claims. An experienced attorney can negotiate a full and fair settlement. If you accept a quick offer, you forfeit the right to any additional compensation.
What are the time limits for a lawsuit after a bicycle crash?
In most bicycle accident cases in Texas, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit, or you may be prohibited from recovering damages. Certain exceptions may extend the deadline.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
Standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ready to answer in your time of need.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationDon’t Deal with a Bicycle Accident on Your Own
If you’re in a bike wreck, contact the Zinda Law Group today! Your Midland bicycle accident attorney will work to protect your legal rights and help ensure you receive a fair settlement. Receive a free case evaluation and find out what we can do for you!
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
We have successfully represented clients in a wide variety of cases across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
