Austin Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Riding a bicycle is a good way to get around Austin since it allows you to enjoy the outdoors and get fresh air instead of being cooped up in a car. It is also a fun and efficient form of exercise.

However, accidents can occur when cyclists share busy city streets with cars. Because automobiles are much larger than bikes, those accidents often result in serious injuries to cyclists.

If you were recently struck by a car while safely cycling, an Austin bicycle accident lawyer can help you file a legal claim for monetary compensation. One of our dedicated injury attorneys can assess the accident scene, fight for justice, and represent you to the full extent of your injuries in your civil claim.

Typical Causes of Local Bike Crashes

Problems can happen whenever cars and bikes need to use the same roads because the two travel at very different speeds. Additionally, bikes are often less visible and more difficult to spot especially in a crowded street. There are many separate locations and ways that car and bike wrecks happen, as a knowledgeable representative can explain.

Negligence at Intersections

Many bicycle and car crashes occur at intersections. When cyclists follow all safety cycling precautions by riding on the right side of the road, they are riding parallel next to fast moving cars. This can often be dangerous if both vehicles arrive at a given intersection at the same time, especially when the car seeks to turn right while the cyclist plans to continue straight through the intersection. Before turning right, responsible drivers usually glance ahead to look for approaching vehicles and check left for oncoming cars. However, when a cyclist is in the right lane to the right of the car, often drivers do not check that space next to them because they might not expect anyone to be there. Consequently, a right turning car could collide directly into the cyclist that is attempting to continue going straight.

Sideswiping

Like most cities, Austin has some narrow streets, one-way roads, and other places where bikes and cars do not easily fit side by side. Sometimes, when a driver is in a hurry to get to their next destination, they might be tempted to pass a cyclist. Problems can occur if the motorist underestimates the amount of space, they need to pass the cyclist. If there is not enough room to safely pass, the vehicle could easily brush or sideswipe the cyclist, often throwing the cyclist onto the street.

Dooring

Meanwhile, some of the most dangerous accidents between cars and bikes occur when a driver opens their door as a cyclist is approaching. This could cause a crash that leaves the cyclist with broken bones or more severe cuts and bruises.

Any of these causes could open up a negligent driver to legal liability. Therefore, after an accident, an injured bicyclist should work with a diligent Austin attorney to concretely determine the cause of the crash.

Common Injuries Suffered in Bike Accidents

Unlike cars, bikes do not offer any safety protections, such as airbags and seatbelts. Consequently, their riders often sustain devastating injuries in any collision, including but not limited to:

  • Road rash
  • Deep cuts and bruises
  • Broken bones
  • Head injuries or brain damage
  • Whiplash or neck injuries
  • Crushed limbs or amputations
  • Internal organ trauma, particularly when a cyclist hits their handlebars or a car door
  • Spinal cord wounds

All these injuries deserve representation, especially when they are catastrophic. Sadly, some people die from their bike crash injuries. If this happens, a compassionate lawyer in Austin can help surviving family members file a wrongful death claim to seek justice for the fatal bike accident.

Call an Austin Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

If you sustained injuries in a bike crash, you might face a lengthy and challenging recuperation. You need time to heal, and you should not have to worry about how you will pay for your medical treatments or manage your other expenses.

Therefore, you should let an experienced Austin bicycle accident lawyer help you with your case. Our dedicated team members have all the necessary experience and knowledge to fully investigate and handle your legal claim. Call today to schedule your initial consultation.

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