Recent Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Trends in Texas

So many different factors have led to changes in bicycle and pedestrian accidents over the years. For instance, suburbanization has influenced the ways people travel through higher-density areas. Growing populations and the way we use our roads have also led to different trends in accidents.

Personal injury lawyers see many trends emerging in pedestrian and bicycle accidents. Unfortunately, Texas pedestrians and cyclists may be at risk with poor infrastructure, increased traffic, and negligent drivers. These are some of the common trends you should be aware of.

Alternative Transportation Users

A higher number of alternative transportation users and the different types of transportation options have changed. Alternative transportation is often safe, but some circumstances beyond the user’s control may lead to injuries. For example, scooters and electric bicycles may malfunction.

Additionally, many people use alternative transportation for work purposes. For instance, some Texas workers use bicycles and other alternative modes of transportation for employment purposes, such as making deliveries. Another notable factor involved in Texas pedestrian accident cases is the state’s non-subscriber law, which means that employers who fail to provide workers’ compensation insurance may be held liable for workers injured in bicycle or pedestrian accidents due to employer negligence.

Insufficient Infrastructure

Concerning trends regarding pedestrian and bicycle accidents are related to insufficient infrastructure throughout the state. In bigger cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, the demand for pedestrian-friendly spaces and protected bike lanes is growing. However, many of these areas lack the infrastructure for safe pedestrian and bike travel. As populations in major cities grow, more traffic also adds to the dangers posed to pedestrians.

In situations where Texas roadways lack bike lanes, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly traffic signals, those injured in accidents could make the claim that a city municipality is negligent. A lawyer may argue that improved traffic signals and lighting could have prevented an accident from occurring.

Negligent Drivers

Driver behavior is also part of the reason for changing trends in accidents impacting bicyclists and pedestrians. For example, many drivers are distracted, failing to notice cyclists and pedestrians due to mobile device use. Speeding and reckless driving also lead to pedestrian accidents. Speeding drivers may fail to stop in time to avoid a serious collision.

In these situations, those injured in accidents may have the option to hold drivers legally responsible. Attorneys may argue that drivers acted negligently when they had a duty to be responsible and safe on the road. As a result, the driver may be held accountable to cover medical bills and other expenses related to the accident.

Contact a Respected Attorney to Discuss Pedestrian and Bike Accidents

Bicycle and pedestrian accident trends in Texas indicate that many people are injured as a result of negligence by others. Compensation may be available to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages associated with the accident. We help pedestrians and cyclists handle serious claims each day, helping them receive compensation and fighting to secure their rights.

Pedestrian and bike accidents can have devastating consequences. If you were the victim of a Texas pedestrian or bicycle accident, contact us today to discuss your legal options and begin building a strong case.