Whether they’re headed for the George Bush Park Bike Trail or using their bicycles as a great way to get around the area, many people regularly choose to take to the roads on their bikes. Unfortunately, some drivers may not take adequate precautions when sharing the road with a cyclist, leading to collisions that can result in severe injuries. If you suffered one or more of these common injuries from bicycle accidents in Houston, talk to an experienced bike accident attorney about how you can pursue a claim.
Examples of Bicycle Accident Injuries
Because bikes offer no protection in a collision, many cyclists involved in accidents end up with severe injuries. Injured cyclists can file a claim even when they suffer less-common injuries; however, a look at these common injuries can help injured individuals get a better idea of the compensation they may have the right to claim.
Head Injuries
Even when the cyclist wears a helmet, head injuries, from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injury, are common injuries from bicycle accidents in Houston. Head injuries may not only mean challenges like headaches or changes in perception, they may cause ongoing cognitive issues that can interfere with every area of the cyclist’s life.
Back and Neck Injuries
Back and neck injuries often occur frequently in bicycle accidents across the Houston area. They can include:
Back and neck injuries often have a severe impact on the patient’s overall mobility. Frequently, they cause immense suffering and prevent the cyclist from engaging in some of their favorite activities—including biking.
Broken Bones
The force of a collision with a vehicle often leads to broken bones. Cyclists can end up dealing with immense challenges due to decreased mobility because of those breaks. Furthermore, some broken bones can cause ongoing complications that lead to long-term limitations or the need for multiple procedures.
Road Rash
Many cyclists end up scraping across the pavement in a collision with a vehicle, leading to severe road rash. Road rash can present with many of the same symptoms as a burn, including a high risk of infection due to debris in the wound.
Compensation Following a Bicycle Accident
After suffering common injuries in Houston bicycle accidents, many cyclists have the right to file a claim that will allow them to recover compensation from the liable driver’s insurance company. The amount the cyclist can ultimately recover will usually depend on factors like the insurance coverage the liable driver carries and the extent of their injuries. Claims can include compensation for:
- Immediate medical costs, including emergency care and ongoing treatment
- Anticipated medical costs, like procedures the cyclist will need in the future, but has not yet received
- Lost wages because the injuries prevented work
- Lost earning potential, in the case of severe injuries that permanently prevent work in the former profession
- General damages, also known as pain and suffering
Working with a lawyer can help injured cyclists lay out the full extent of their damages so they can include them as part of a comprehensive injury claim.
Contact a Lawyer to Talk About Common Injuries From Bicycle Accidents in Houston
Bicycle accidents often lead to severe damages. You can end up facing a long road to recovery and high medical costs—not to mention the wages you may miss out on while you recover. At Schechter, Shaffer, & Harris, we understand the many challenges you may face after common injuries from bicycle accidents in Houston, and we will strive to help you maximize the compensation you can recover. Contact us today for your free consultation.
