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Dedicated Legal Support for Clear Lake Cyclists
Cycling through Clear Lake—whether you are commuting near the NASA Johnson Space Center or enjoying a weekend ride near the water—should be safe. Unfortunately, negligent drivers often fail to share the road. If you have been hurt, working with a Houston Bicycle Accident Lawyer can help you protect your rights and seek accountability. Our firm understands the unique challenges cyclists face on Texas roads and provides the personalized attention your case deserves.
Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Clear Lake
Most bicycle accidents occur because a motorist was not paying attention or failed to respect the cyclist’s right of way. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving (texting or using a phone)
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Opening car doors without looking (dooring)
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding in residential neighborhoods
Because cyclists have little protection, injuries are often severe. We help victims suffering from broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and severe road rash. No matter the complexity of your injuries, we are here to help you navigate the recovery process.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
The steps you take immediately following a crash can significantly impact your physical recovery and your legal claim. If you are able, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries like internal bleeding or concussions may not be immediately apparent.
- Call the Police: Ensure an official accident report is filed. This provides an objective record of the event.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, your bicycle, the vehicle involved, and your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not apologize or make statements about the cause of the crash to the other driver or insurance adjusters.
- Contact a Lawyer: Before signing any documents from an insurance company, consult with a legal professional.
Understanding Fault and Liability in Texas
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means you can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. However, insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the cyclist to reduce their payout. We work to investigate the facts, gather traffic camera footage, and interview witnesses to build a strong case that demonstrates the motorist’s negligence.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Recover
While every case is unique, victims of bicycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for various losses. These generally fall into two categories:
- Economic Damages: These cover quantifiable financial losses such as hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and the cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle.
- Non-Economic Damages: These address the personal impact of the accident, including physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
The Legal Process and Timeline
The duration of a personal injury case varies depending on the clarity of fault and the length of your medical treatment. Generally, the process involves an initial investigation, filing a claim with the insurance provider, and entering negotiations. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the matter to court to advocate for your best interests. We handle the paperwork and communication so you can focus on your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a bicycle accident lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you.
What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?
Hit-and-run accidents are complicated, but you may still have options for recovery through your own uninsured motorist coverage. We can help you explore all available avenues.
How long do I have to file a claim in Texas?
In most cases, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. It is critical to act quickly to preserve evidence.
Contact a Clear Lake Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
You do not have to face the insurance companies alone. If you or a loved one has been injured in a cycling accident in the Clear Lake or greater Houston area, reach out to Nguyen Injury Law for guidance. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain your legal options.
Call us today at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.