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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBicycle Road Safety Exceptions for a Person Operating a Bicycle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Safely riding your bicycle means staying on the right edge of the roadway. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No Designated Bicycle Lane Adjacent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you are in an outside lane that is less than 14 feet and doesn\u2019t have a designated bicycle lane adjacent to that lane or there is no way to safely travel side by side with other traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Passing Another Vehicle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
You can break the rule if you are passing a vehicle moving in the same direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Left Turn Scenarios<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you are making a left turn at an intersection or into a private driveway or road, you do not have to stay on the right side of the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Obstructions and Other Concerns<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Any condition on the road that prevents you from safely riding next to the right curb or edge of the road means that you can deviate from the right of the roadway. Additionally, if you are riding a bicycle on a one-way road with two or more marked traffic lanes,you may ride as near as possible to the left curb or edge of the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tips for Staying Safe for Any Person Operating a Bicycle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Whether it is or isn\u2019t possible to stay at the edge of the roadway while riding your bicycle, following the right tips can keep you safe. Here are some top tips to travel safely on Texas roads while riding your bike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wear the Right Gear<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Helmets might not be required but they can protect you from sustaining head trauma. You could lose your balance when approaching a stop sign and fall off your bicycle. Protect your head and make sure that you are visible from a distance, especially at night. Turn on your bicycle light at night so that drivers can notice you in the dark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reflective clothing and bright colors can also make you visible from a distance. Dress appropriately to protect yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Know Your Hand Signals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bicycles don\u2019t have turn signals to alert others of when the rider is turning. Knowing hand signals can prevent catastrophe. Signal a left turn by fully extending your left hand and arm out to your side about 100 feet prior to turning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a right turn, extend your right hand and arm horizontally. It\u2019s the same hand and arm signal for a left hand turn on the opposite side. It\u2019s also vital to signal a stop, which can be done by extending the left hand and arm out with your arm bent downward at a 90-degree angle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Follow the Law<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
All persons riding a bicycle have a duty to operate these modes of transport in a reasonable, safe, and prudent way. When you take the right precautions to be safe while on your bicycle, such as making sure to ride as near to the curb as possible, you will be more likely to avoid accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you might do your part to be aware of traffic as you ride and use hand signals to communicate with a driver operating a car, it may not be enough. You could wind up in a serious accident with painful injuries. Knowing what to do can help protect your legal rights in this scenario.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Calling the police will get law enforcement on the accident scene. Officers will assess the situation and may issue citations if they find that the driver of the vehicle violated one of the traffic laws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even when you are wearing safety gear, it is possible to sustain severe injuries. The adrenaline from the accident may mask your symptoms and without any visible wounds, you may falsely assume you\u2019re fine. Always get prompt medical treatment if you get hit while on your bike and make sure you attend all follow up appointments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n All persons riding a bike must try to get evidence when involved in an accident. Photos and videos should show the damage to your bicycle, your injuries, the surroundings, weather, and any unsafe conditions. You should also get the contact information for any witnesses that saw what happened as they can be instrumental in showing that the driver operating the motor vehicle was negligent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ultimately, even if you perform all the arm signals, follow all the discussed rules, and ride as near to the curb as possible, you may still be blamed for a bicycle wreck. Since you are bound to these rules as much as drivers are bound to rules regarding traffic, it could mean you are assigned partial blame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Modified comparative negligence in Texas allows you to seek damages for your injuries and financial losses if you are less than 51% at fault. Unfortunately, insurers know this and may either offer you a settlement that is too low to cover your medical bills and lost wages or deny your claim entirely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The only way to prevent being taken advantage of in these situations is to work with a personal injury lawyer. Tijerina Legal Group knows the rules that apply to cyclists and can help you fight for what is fair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most motorists fail to pay attention to those riding bicycles, causing serious accidents. Even if you were wearing neon yellow and your bike had all the proper lighting, you may still face blame. The insurers will have lawyers on their side and you should too, so you can have an advocate that can stand up for you in the face of injustice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you heal and recover, an attorney will investigate your bike crash and gather evidence that you may not have been able to get while being rushed to the hospital. They will negotiate on your behalf and prepare for a trial. You don\u2019t have to get a lawyer for a personal injury case but it is strongly recommended as you\u2019ll have someone focused on your best interests.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"![\"Closeup](\"https:\/\/tlegalgroup.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/bicycle-accident.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to Do If You\u2019re in a Bike Accident in Texas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Call the Police<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Get Medical Care<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Capture Evidence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Discuss What Happened with a Bicycle Accident Attorney<\/h3>\n\n\n\n