Austin Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Austin Charge No Upfront Fees

At Thompson Law, our Austin bicycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis – meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. If we can’t recover a settlement, you owe us nothing.

Our legal team is available 24/7/365 to provide expert legal advice after a bike accident. You can even sign up with one of our attorneys over the phone before insurance companies try to limit your right to compensation.

• Bilingual Support:  Our staff speaks both Spanish and English to assist you every step of the way.
• Act Fast:  Texas law sets a 2-year statute of limitations to file a lawsuit after a bicycle accident.

Save our contact info now – just in case. If you’ve been injured in a cycling accident, call Thompson Law’s Austin bicycle accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE EVALUATION!

Understanding the Laws for Cyclists in Texas

Texas law requires bicyclists to follow the same traffic rules as motor vehicles. If you’ve been in a bicycle accident, don’t delay seeking legal help. Our skilled attorneys are ready to handle your case, challenge insurance companies, and fight for the maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

Biking Laws and Guidelines in Austin, TX

Bike Texas outlines key regulations every cyclist in Austin must follow:

• Obey all traffic laws, including stopping at red lights and stop signs.
• Use hand signals when turning to improve visibility and safety.
• Ride solo unless on a tandem bike designed for two.
• Keep at least one hand on the handlebars for better control.
• Ride side by side only when it doesn’t block motor vehicle traffic.
• Ensure brakes are in good working condition for safe stopping.
• Equip your bike with a white front light and red rear reflector for visibility.
• Always ride in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes when available.

Exceptions for Cyclists Traveling in Main Driving Lanes in Austin, TX

Cyclists in Austin can legally use the motorized vehicle lane in specific situations, such as:

• When the lane is narrower than the standard 14 feet.
• When avoiding obstacles or hazardous conditions.
• When passing another cyclist traveling in the same direction.
• When preparing for a left turn at an intersection.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Austin, our experienced bicycle accident lawyers are here to help. Get a FREE CONSULTATION today!

Get Compensation For Your Bicycle Accident Case!

Our skilled Austin bicycle accident attorneys offer aggressive legal representation to help injury victims secure the compensation they deserve. We gather strong evidence to build a solid case, ensuring you recover maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and more.

Common Bike Accident Injuries in Austin

Cycling injuries are often more severe than car accident injuries since cyclists lack the protection of a vehicle. When sharing the road with cars, trucks, and commercial vehicles, bicyclists face a higher risk of serious injuries, including trauma to multiple body parts and internal organs. Our experienced Austin bicycle accident attorneys can help navigate the complexities of these cases so you can get the compensation you deserve.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Bicycle accidents are a top cause of sports and recreation-related emergency room visits for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the U.S. As cycling grows in popularity, head injury cases have risen, making head trauma the leading cause of cycling-related fatalities.

Examples of TBIs include:

• Brain contusions:  Scattered bleeding on the brain’s surface.
• Penetrating brain injuries:  Skull penetration caused by sharp objects.

Broken Bones

The National Library of Medicine states that 40% of bicycle accident victims suffer fractures, with upper limb injuries being the most common. Many bike accidents involving motor vehicles require at least one surgery.

Spinal Column Injuries

Bicycle crashes frequently affect the cervical spine (C1–C7 vertebrae) which is crucial for mobility and shock absorption.
Examples:

• Spinal cord injuries:  Partial or complete severing of the spinal cord, paralysis.

• Intervertebral disc injuries:  Bulging or herniated discs, chronic pain and mobility issues.

Other common injuries:

• Neck and back injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Joint injuries
• Severe skin injuries (road rash, lacerations, puncture wounds, bruising)

If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, our Austin bike accident lawyers are here to help. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Statistics for Wearing or Not Wearing a Helmet on a Bike

Texas has no statewide helmet law for cyclists, meaning riders are not legally required to wear one. However, helmet use is strongly recommended, as the growing popularity of cycling has led to a rise in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and fatalities – many linked to cyclists without helmets.

Key Helmet Safety Statistics:

• Over 50% of cyclist fatalities involve riders who weren’t wearing helmets.
• Helmets reduce the risk of head injuries by more than 50%.
• Only 29% of adults wear helmets while biking.
• Budget-friendly and high-end helmets offer similar levels of protection.

Regardless of whether you were wearing a helmet, you have the legal right to seek compensation for your injuries. Contact our Austin bicycle accident attorneys today for a FREE CASE REVIEW and let us fight for you.

Bicycle Accident Statistics in Austin

Each year, bicyclists make up about 2% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities. In 2023, an estimated 1,149 cyclists lost their lives on U.S. roads, reflecting a 4% increase from 2022, according to early estimates from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Of those major cities that had pedalcyclist fatalities, the lowest fatality rates were in Austin, TX (0.10 pedalcyclist fatalities per 100,000 people). However, tragic accidents still happen.

In 2024, Austin reported 204 bicycle and motor vehicle collisions, according to CRIS. Of these, 4 were fatal, 27 involved suspected serious injuries, and 98 resulted in minor injuries. This data highlights that more than half of bicycle accidents in Austin cause injuries, emphasizing the risks cyclists face on the road.

Bike Injuries and Crashes in Texas in 2023

Our Austin bicycle accident lawyers analyzed crash report data from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), compiled from police departments across the state, to assess the severity of 2,595 bicycle accidents in Texas.

• Fatal Bike Accidents:  104 fatal bike accidents leading to 105 fatally wounded bikers
• Serious Injury Bike Accidents:  381 serious injury bike accidents leading to 382 seriously injured bikers
• Minor Injury Bike Accidents:  1,246 minor injury bike accidents leading to 1,261 minor injured bikers
• Possible Injury Bike Accidents:  652 possible injury bike accidents
• Non-Injury Bike Accidents:  209 non-injury bike accidents

Source:  Pedestrian and Pedalcyclist Related Injuries and Crashes.

This data underscores the risks cyclists face on Texas roads and the importance of legal support for bike accident victims.

FAQs About Bicycle Accidents in Austin

What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover my injuries and damages?

If the driver responsible for your Austin bicycle accident has insufficient insurance, you may be able to file a claim under your underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, if available. This coverage helps bridge the gap when the at-fault driver’s policy limits fall short. You may also have the option to pursue a personal injury lawsuit for additional compensation. Consulting with an Austin bicycle accident lawyer can help you determine the best legal strategy for maximizing your recovery.

What if I’m partially at fault for my bicycle accident?

Texas follows comparative negligence laws, meaning you can still seek compensation even if you share some blame. However, your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 30% responsible, you can still recover 70% of your damages. An experienced bicycle accident attorney can assess your case, minimize your liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Will my bicycle be repaired or replaced?

Whether your bike is repaired or replaced depends on insurance coverage and the extent of the damage. If the at-fault driver’s property damage liability insurance applies, you may receive compensation based on your bike’s value and repair costs. Additionally, some homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies may cover bicycle replacement. A lawyer can help you explore your best options.

Can someone be liable for my injuries even if there was no collision?

Yes. A driver or another party may still be held liable even without a direct impact. If a driver forced you off the road, causing a crash, they may be responsible. Similarly, if a property owner or government entity failed to maintain safe road conditions, leading to your accident, they could be held accountable. Gathering evidence and consulting with a bicycle accident lawyer can help establish liability and strengthen your claim.

Who is responsible if poor road conditions caused my bicycle accident?

If hazardous road conditions such as potholes, uneven pavement, or missing signage caused your crash, the government agency responsible for road maintenance may be liable. However, claims against government entities have strict deadlines and legal requirements. An experienced Austin bicycle accident attorney can guide you through the process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Call Today About Your Bicycle Accident Case

Thompson Law works on a no-win, no-fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We’ve secured over $1.9 billion in cash settlements for our clients. Don’t wait to get legal help – state law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident. Call us now to talk to us, get answers and explore your options.

Get A Lawyer in 15 Minutes or Less

After an accident you don’t need a long, drawn out search for legal help. With one quick call or message you can:

• Talk to an expert instantly
• Sign up from your phone or computer
• Have an attorney on your case in minutes

No long interviews or unnecessary waits – just quick, effective legal help. Call Today!