Cycling is a great way to stay fit, save money on gas, and reduce your carbon footprint. But sharing the road with motor vehicles in Texas can also come with serious risks. If you’ve been hit by a car while biking, you’re likely dealing with pain, confusion, and the urgent question: What now?
At O’Hare and Koch Law Firm, we’ve helped countless cyclists navigate the aftermath of a serious accident. Here’s what every rider needs to know about their rights, the legal process, and how to get the help they deserve.
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Cyclists Are Protected Under Texas Law
In Texas, bicycles are considered vehicles. This means cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. You’re entitled to ride on the road, use bike lanes, and expect motorists to treat you with the same caution and respect as they would another car.
Unfortunately, not all drivers share the road safely. Whether it’s due to distracted driving, failure to yield, or reckless behavior, driver negligence is a leading cause of bicycle accidents.
If you were injured in a bike accident that wasn’t your fault, Texas law is on your side.
Can You Claim for a Bicycle Accident in Texas?
Yes, you absolutely can. If a motorist’s carelessness or negligence caused your injuries, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. This allows you to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses – from ER visits, to wound care, fractures, surgeries, all the way through ongoing physical therapy
- Lost wages – if your injuries forced you to miss work
- Pain and suffering – including emotional distress and decreased quality of life
- Disfigurement and scarring – physical bodily damage that causes long-term changes in appearance, including beauty and symmetry
- Bike repair or replacement – your property damage matters, too
To be successful, you’ll need to prove the driver was at fault. That’s where a seasoned bike accident lawyer in Dallas can make a big difference.
What to Do Right After a Bicycle Accident
The moments after a collision can be chaotic, but the steps you take are critical for your health and your case. Here’s what to do:
- Get medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Many injuries, like internal trauma or concussions, can surface hours or days later.
- Call the police and file a report. This is your official record of the accident, and it’s vital for your claim.
- Document everything. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bike. Get contact info from witnesses and the driver involved.
- Avoid speaking with the driver’s insurance company. They may try to settle quickly and for less than you deserve.
Contact a personal injury lawyer in Dallas. The sooner you speak with a legal professional, the better your chances of a full and fair recovery.
How a Dallas Bike Accident Lawyer Can Help
Filing a claim can feel intimidating, especially when you’re injured. Insurance companies have teams of trained adjusters and lawyers protecting their interests. You need someone to protect yours.
That’s where we come in.
At the O’Hare and Koch Law Firm, we know how to build strong cases. We gather evidence, consult with medical experts, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf. And if a fair settlement isn’t offered? We’re fully prepared to take your case to court.
You focus on healing—we’ll handle the rest.
Common Misconceptions That Hurt Cyclists’ Claims
- “I wasn’t wearing a helmet, so I must be at fault.” Not true. Helmet use can affect injury severity, but it doesn’t determine fault.
- “I was riding on the sidewalk, so I don’t have rights.” While Texas law varies by city, sidewalk riding doesn’t automatically disqualify you from compensation.
- “I didn’t report the accident right away, so it’s too late.” It’s best to act quickly, but you still have time. In Texas, the personal injury statute of limitations is two years, as set by Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code section 16.003. This means you have two years from the date of an injury accident to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for your injuries. If you do not file a lawsuit for your case within these 2 years, in most cases, the courts will refuse to hear your case.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you’ve been hit by a car while biking, don’t wait. Contact the O’Hare and Koch Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you map a clear path forward.
You deserve more than recovery. You deserve justice—and we’re here to help you get it.
