San Antonio is a city rich in history and offers many attractions for visitors and residents alike, such as The Alamo. The San Antonio River runs throughout the heart of town, and the city offers miles of bicycle paths and trails for people to enjoy. Unfortunately, with the growing number of cyclists on the roads, the risk of bicycle accidents has also increased.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a bicycle accident in San Antonio someone else caused, you likely qualify to pursue compensation from those responsible. However, you need a San Antonio bicycle accident lawyer to advise you of your rights and help you obtain the compensation you need.
The personal injury attorneys at Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, are committed to protecting your rights and holding the negligent parties accountable for your injuries and losses. We can help you successfully navigate your claim and increase your chances of getting the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, to Handle Your San Antonio Bicycle Accident Claim
At Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, we recognize the unique challenges those who have been injured in bicycle accidents face. The vulnerability of cyclists on the road often leads to severe injuries, ranging from fractures and head trauma to life-altering consequences.
As your dedicated San Antonio bicycle accident attorneys, we bring not only legal experience and knowledge but also a deep understanding of the physical and emotional hardships you may endure.
Aspects to consider about working with our firm include:
Extensive Experience
Our legal team possesses a wealth of experience specifically in handling bicycle accident cases. We understand the nuances of Texas traffic laws, insurance regulations, and the complexities involved in seeking compensation for bicycle accident injuries.
Client-Centered Approach
Your well-being is our priority. We take a personalized and compassionate approach to every case, ensuring that we comprehend the unique circumstances surrounding your accident and tailor our legal strategy accordingly.
Proven Track Record
We have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for bicycle accident victims. Our commitment to excellence, paired with our relentless pursuit of justice, has resulted in numerous successful settlements and verdicts.
You can trust us to thoroughly investigate the bicycle accident and collect evidence to support your claim. We will file your claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company and negotiate to help ensure you get the best settlement possible.
If negotiations break down because the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we can take your case to court and fight to help you get all you deserve.
Call us to speak with San Antonio personal injury attorney for free about your case, or complete our contact form to have an attorney get back to you. Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay us anything upfront to represent you, and we will only accept a fee if we recover compensation for you through an insurance settlement or court award.
Causes of Bicycle Accidents in San Antonio
Bicycle accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, and they often involve driver negligence. Some common causes of bicycle accidents in San Antonio include:
Motor Vehicle Collisions and Human Error
Motor vehicle collisions and human error are among the most common causes of bicycle accidents, and they often occur due to driver error, such as:
- Failure to Yield: Drivers failing to yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections and crosswalks cause many bicycle accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Drivers using mobile phones, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other distractions that divert attention from the road may not see a cyclist until it’s too late.
- Road Rage: Aggressive behaviors from motorists directed towards cyclists create unsafe environments for cyclists on the road.
- Dooring Accidents: Car drivers or their passengers may suddenly open a car door without checking for approaching bicycles, causing the cyclist to collide with the door.
- Pedestrian Interactions: Pedestrians can cause bicycle accidents if the pedestrian walks in the bicycle’s path or the cyclist must take evasive action to avoid hitting a negligent pedestrian.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Along with vehicle collisions and human carelessness, poorly maintained roads and other factors can cause bicycle accidents, including:
- Potholes and Debris: Uneven road surfaces, potholes, and debris can cause cyclists to lose control or be thrown off balance.
- Inadequate Signage: Lack of proper signage or unclear road markings can contribute to confusion and accidents.
- Poorly Designed Intersections: Complex or poorly designed intersections may increase the risk of collisions between cyclists and other road users.
- Inadequate Bike Lanes: The absence of dedicated bike lanes or poorly designed ones may force cyclists to share the road with motor vehicles.
- Lack of Bike Paths: Insufficient or nonexistent bike paths can expose cyclists to higher traffic volumes and increased risk.
Weather and Visibility Issues
Environmental factors can cause bicycle accidents, including:
- Slippery Surfaces: Wet or icy road conditions can create slippery surfaces, increasing the likelihood of cyclists losing control.
- Low Visibility: Poor lighting conditions, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime, can reduce visibility for both cyclists and drivers.
- Vehicle Blind Spots: Cyclists may end up in the blind spots of larger vehicles, making them less visible to drivers.
Mechanical Failures
- Mechanical issues with the bicycle, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, can contribute to accidents.
Cyclists should wear the proper protective gear, including a helmet, and follow all traffic laws. Still, even with taking the necessary precautions, another person’s negligence can cause a bicycle accident that severely injures you or someone you love. Reach out to an experienced San Antonio bicycle accident lawyer at Lorenz & Lorenz, PLLC, for help.
What Are Common Injuries Cyclists Can Sustain in San Antonio Bicycle Accidents?
Cyclists involved in accidents can sustain a range of injuries, varying in severity based on the circumstances of the crash. In San Antonio, as in many places, these injuries can have significant consequences for the well-being of the cyclist.
Common injuries resulting from bicycle accidents include:
- Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Facial Injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Orthopedic Injuries
- Sprains and Strains
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Road Rash
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Internal Injuries
- Joint Injuries
- Emotional and Psychological Injuries
- Amputations
- Crush Injuries
In worst-case scenarios, cyclists can sustain fatal injuries, leaving families devastated by the loss of a loved one.
Various factors can influence the severity of injuries, such as helmet use, the speed of the collision, and the type of vehicles involved. Seek immediate medical attention after an accident, even if injuries seem minor, as some issues may not immediately manifest.
Additionally, a personal injury attorney can explain your rights and pursue compensation for the damages incurred in the bike accident.
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive for My San Antonio Bicycle Accident Injuries?
If you sustained injuries in a bicycle accident in San Antonio due to the negligence of another party, you may receive compensation. A skilled personal injury attorney can explain and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Common types of compensation for bicycle accident injuries in San Antonio include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for all medical costs related to the accident, including emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments.
- Lost Income: Compensation for the income you lost due to time away from work during your recovery. This includes both current lost wages and potential future earnings if your injuries affect your ability to work.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged bicycle and any other personal property the accident damaged.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain, suffering, and distress you experienced due to the bicycle accident and your injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for the loss of quality of life or the inability to participate in activities you enjoyed before the accident due to your injuries.
- Disfigurement and Scarring: Compensation for any permanent disfigurement or scarring resulting from the bicycle accident.
- Permanent Disabilities: If the accident results in a long-term or permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation for the impact on your daily life and future opportunities.
- Emotional Distress: Damages for emotional distress or psychological trauma resulting from the bicycle accident, especially if you suffer from conditions like anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the effects of the injuries on your relationship with your spouse or family.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If the bicycle accident results in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may recover compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional impact of the loss.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, the court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.
Consult a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to assess your case and determine the compensation you may receive.
A San Antonio bicycle accident attorney from Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC can guide you through the legal process and advocate strongly on your behalf throughout the process to improve your odds of obtaining the maximum compensation possible.
What Should I Do After a San Antonio Bicycle Accident?
Experiencing a bicycle accident in San Antonio can be a traumatic and disorienting event. However, taking certain steps immediately after the incident can help ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and strengthen any potential personal injury claim you wish to pursue.
Here’s what you should do:
- Prioritize Safety: Move to a safe location, if possible, away from traffic and potential hazards. Check yourself and others for injuries and seek medical attention for any immediate concerns.
- Call for Emergency Assistance: Dial 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Report the incident to the police and wait for them to arrive at the scene.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information with the involved parties, including drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Document the names and badge numbers of responding police officers.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, property damage, road conditions, and any relevant signage. Capture images of your bicycle and any visible injuries.
- Gather Witness Information: Collect contact information from any witnesses who may have observed the accident. Ask witnesses if they will provide statements to support your case.
- Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as your damaged bicycle, clothing, and any documentation provided by medical professionals.
- Keep a Detailed Record: Maintain a record of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, property damage, and any other out-of-pocket costs.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that may be construed as an admission of guilt. Stick to the facts when communicating with the involved parties and the police.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not immediately appear but can have long-term consequences. Follow through with all recommended medical treatments and keep records of your medical expenses.
- Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the bicycle accident. Provide basic details but avoid providing a detailed statement until you've consulted an attorney.
- Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney: Consult an experienced bicycle accident attorney in San Antonio to discuss the specifics of your case. Your attorney can guide you on your legal rights, help gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Taking these steps can help protect your well-being and build a solid foundation for a potential personal injury claim. Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable San Antonio bicycle accident attorney at Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, can help you navigate the legal process and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
How Long Do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Lawsuit in San Antonio?
In San Antonio, as well as throughout Texas, the state’s statute of limitations allows you two years from your injury to file a lawsuit in civil court. This is true for bicycle accidents and most other personal injury claims based on negligence.
However, Texas’s statute of limitations makes some exceptions:
- Discovery Rule: In some cases, injuries may not immediately appear or they may become evident over time. The discovery rule allows the statute of limitations to begin when the injured party discovers or should have reasonably discovered their injuries.
- Wrongful Death Cases: If a bicycle accident results in a fatality, certain surviving family members generally have two years from the date of the individual's death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
- Government Entities: If the accident involves a government entity or employee, you may need to meet specific notice requirements and a shorter deadline to file a lawsuit. Act promptly in such cases.
While the statute of limitations provides a timeframe for filing a lawsuit, it's advisable to initiate legal proceedings as soon as possible. This allows for the preservation of evidence, the collection of witness statements, and a more accurate reconstruction of the events surrounding the accident.
Failing to file a lawsuit within the specified time frame may result in the court dismissing your case, and you may lose the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
To meet the necessary deadlines and protect your legal rights, speak with an experienced bicycle accident attorney in San Antonio at Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, immediately. We can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
Contact Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, Today
After suffering injuries in a San Antonio bicycle accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t wait to pursue the compensation you need. Time is of the essence, and the sooner you get started on your claim, the better.
You don’t have to pursue compensation for your bicycle accident injuries alone. Contact the San Antonio bicycle accident lawyers at Lorenz & Lorenz Accident & Injury Lawyers PLLC, today at (210) 320-1529 for your free consultation and find out how we can get the full and fair financial recovery you deserve.