Living in a busy city like Houston, you’re bound to encounter cyclists occasionally hitting the roads. As a driver, it can be confusing to understand both your role and theirs on the road when interacting with each other. It’s important to understand the rules of the road that apply to cyclists, in the event you are in an accident with one while driving your car.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by a cyclist who wasn’t following the rules of the road, a Houston car accident attorney can prove instrumental in establishing your case. Their skillful negotiation can effectively communicate your position to insurance companies, or in court if necessary, providing indispensable legal support in such challenging circumstances.
Contact our legal team for a free case evaluation to get started.
Some Cyclists Can Be Unpredictable
As a driver, it can be difficult to navigate the streets when cyclists are present. The challenge arises from the fact that cyclists can behave in different ways. Some may stick to pedestrian areas like sidewalks and crosswalks, while others may operate their bicycles on the roadway alongside other vehicles.
This variability can be confusing for drivers who are trying to anticipate the actions of those around them. As a driver, you have to be extra alert and aware if cyclists are riding nearby. If the cyclist does something unpredictable, it could lead to an accident.
Cyclists on the Road are Considered Vehicles
As a driver, it’s important to remember that cyclists in Texas have the same rights and responsibilities as you do. This means that they have to uphold vehicular traffic laws just as much as you do, and can be ticketed or penalized if they fail to do so.
It’s easy to forget this when you’re in a car and have the advantage of being bigger and faster than a cyclist, but it’s important to keep in mind. If a cyclist is not obeying traffic laws and an accident occurs, they could be at fault. That’s why it’s important to contact a Houston car accident attorney if you have been in an accident with a cyclist. They can help fight for your case so that the responsible party is held accountable.
Cyclists Must Follow Texas Motor Vehicle Laws on Roadways
Car accident lawyers in Houston are well-versed in Texas motor vehicle laws and their application to car accident cases. These legal professionals dedicate their practice to understanding every nuance of the law, ensuring they are thoroughly equipped to handle your case. Their knowledge goes beyond the basic legal text, taking into account case law and precedents set in previous cases. They understand how these laws apply in real-world situations, such as your car accident, and can use this expertise to construct a strong legal case on your behalf.
Cyclists must follow standard traffic laws, including:
- Fully stop at stop signs
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Display proper illumination to ensure their visibility to drivers, especially at night
- Ride with the traffic flow
- Have a maximum of two cyclists riding abreast in one lane
A Houston Car Accident Attorney is On Your Side
No one should have to face the repercussions of an unexpected collision with a cyclist who wasn’t following the rules of the road. If this has happened to you, contact a car accident lawyer in Houston right away. Our team of experienced attorneys will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve so that you don’t have to suffer financially from your accident. Call us now for a free case evaluation.