Bicycle Accident Attorney in Rockwall, TX

Cycling is a great way to stay fit, but it also comes with significant risks, especially in busy areas like Rockwall, TX. When cyclists are involved in accidents, they are often at a disadvantage due to the sheer size difference between a bicycle and an automobile. That’s where an experienced bicycle accident attorney, like Bill Shirer of Cyclist at Law, comes into play. If you’ve been in an accident, you need someone who not only understands personal injury law but also the unique challenges that cyclists face.

Why Do You Need a Bicycle Accident Attorney?

When you’re involved in a bicycle accident, the physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming. On top of that, dealing with legal claims, insurance companies, and possible litigation can add significant stress. Bill Shirer, a personal injury attorney with more than 35 years of experience, specializes in bicycle accident claims. Not only is he an attorney, but he is also an avid cyclist who understands the sport and the risks involved firsthand. His personal involvement in the cycling community gives him an edge in understanding how to approach these cases effectively.

Bill has competed in over 100 triathlons, including prestigious events like Iron Man Hawaii, and has ridden more than 100,000 miles on his bike. He’s not just an attorney who takes on cycling cases; he’s a cyclist who advocates for the rights and safety of other cyclists. This combination of legal expertise and personal experience ensures that Bill provides a comprehensive approach to every case he handles.

Understanding Bicycle Laws in Rockwall, TX

In Rockwall, cyclists are required to follow the same rules of the road as motor vehicles. This includes obeying traffic signals, using hand signals for turning, riding with the flow of traffic, and yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks. Additionally, cyclists must use bicycle lanes when available and remain as close to the side of the road as possible if they’re riding at a slower speed than the rest of traffic. Failing to follow these laws can lead to complications when trying to file a claim after an accident.

Even though Texas law views cyclists similarly to vehicle drivers, that doesn’t always mean they’re treated fairly. Many drivers are unaware of a cyclist’s rights and responsibilities, and this often leads to dangerous situations on the road. In cases where a cyclist is struck by a vehicle, drivers may try to claim that the cyclist was at fault. This is why having an attorney who is familiar with both cycling and the legal landscape is so important. Bill Shirer is experienced in handling cases where drivers fail to provide adequate space for cyclists or disregard their rights on the road.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Rockwall

Bicycle accidents in Rockwall can occur for many reasons, but the most common causes include driver negligence, unsafe road conditions, and mechanical failures. Many accidents happen because drivers are not paying attention to cyclists or do not give them the appropriate space on the road. Other common causes of bicycle accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distractions can easily miss seeing a cyclist, leading to serious accidents.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield to cyclists at intersections or when making turns.
• Opening Car Doors: In busy areas, parked cars can pose a danger to cyclists if someone opens their door into the cyclist’s path, causing a collision.
• Speeding: Vehicles that are traveling at high speeds are less likely to stop in time to avoid a collision with a cyclist.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to cause accidents, including those involving cyclists.

Bill Shirer works to prove liability in such cases, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and video footage to build a solid case on your behalf.

Proving Liability in Bicycle Accidents

After a bicycle accident, proving who is at fault is key to receiving the compensation you deserve. Proving liability in a bicycle accident involves collecting evidence that shows the other party acted negligently. This could be through reckless driving, ignoring traffic laws, or failing to yield the right of way to a cyclist. Bill Shirer and his team work diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and use expert testimony when necessary to prove your case. They will also examine any applicable traffic camera footage and review the driver’s behavior leading up to the accident.

It’s important to remember that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, Texas follows a comparative fault rule. This means that you can still recover damages as long as you were less than 51% responsible for the crash. However, the amount you can recover will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Rockwall?

The steps you take immediately following a bicycle accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case. After ensuring your safety and seeking medical attention, it’s crucial to gather as much evidence as possible. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Call 911: Report the accident to the police and request medical assistance if needed.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, the damaged bike, and the vehicle involved.
3. Get Contact Information: Collect the names, phone numbers, and insurance information of the driver and any witnesses.
4. Seek Medical Treatment: Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get a full medical evaluation to ensure that any internal injuries are diagnosed and documented.
5. Contact an Attorney: Reach out to Bill Shirer as soon as possible. He will advise you on the next steps and start gathering evidence for your case.

Why You Should Not Settle With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. They may pressure you into accepting a settlement that doesn’t cover all your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Bill Shirer is experienced in negotiating with insurance companies and will fight to ensure you get a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your injuries and losses.

When you hire Bill Shirer, you can focus on your recovery while he handles the legal aspects of your case. His goal is to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation available, whether through a settlement or by taking the case to trial.

Damages You Can Recover in a Bicycle Accident Case

The compensation you can recover in a bicycle accident case typically includes both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are those that can be easily calculated, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases where the driver’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious, you may also be entitled to punitive damages.

Bill Shirer will thoroughly review your case to determine the full extent of your damages and will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Bill Shirer, Your Rockwall Bicycle Accident Attorney

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Rockwall, TX, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Bill Shirer is here to help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected. With his extensive experience and personal commitment to cycling, Bill Shirer is the best choice for anyone seeking justice after a bicycle accident.

Call Cyclist at Law today at 800-887-6188 or 972-392-1249 for a free consultation and let Bill Shirer fight for the compensation you deserve.