Your Step-by-Step Guide to Protecting Your Rights After a Bike Accident in Dallas.
At Genthe Law Firm, we often stress the importance of being cautious when dealing with insurance companies, but for bicyclists, this advice carries even more weight. Unlike drivers, cyclists don’t have the protective barrier of a vehicle or the leverage of their own insurance in most cases. The stakes are high—one wrong word to an adjuster can jeopardize your claim entirely. This guide lays out exactly what you need to know to protect yourself, avoid common pitfalls, and get the compensation you deserve after a bicycle accident in Dallas.
If you’ve been in a bicycle accident, contact us at 214-957-0898 for a free consultation. Let us help you every step of the way.
What to Do Right After a Bike Accident
Your safety is the top priority. Move to a safe area if you can, and call 911 immediately. Even if you feel okay, you should still seek medical attention—some injuries might not be obvious right away.
Here’s what to do at the scene:
- Get the Driver’s Information: Write down their name, phone number, license plate number, and insurance details.
- Talk to the Police: Ask for the accident report number and how to access the report. Dallas police reports are often available through the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
- Take Photos: Capture pictures of your injuries, your bike, the car involved, and the scene. Include street signs and any traffic signals.
- Collect Witness Information: Ask witnesses for their names and contact details. Their statements could support your case.
To help you stay organized in a stressful moment, we offer a free downloadable Bicycle Crash Documentation Template. This template ensures you don’t miss any key details while documenting your accident.
Know Your Rights as a Cyclist in Dallas
Bicyclists in Texas have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles on the road. That means:
- You can use the full lane when it’s too narrow for cars and bikes to share safely.
- You must follow all traffic signals and signs.
- Riding on sidewalks is allowed in some parts of Dallas but be cautious of pedestrians.
If you feel an insurance adjuster or anyone else is trying to shift blame onto you, knowing these rights can help you push back effectively.
What to Do If You’re Injured
If you’ve been hurt, seek medical attention right away. Dallas is home to world-class medical facilities like Baylor University Medical Center and UT Southwestern Medical Center, where you can get the care you need.
Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to settle quickly by offering a lowball amount before you know the full extent of your injuries. This tactic, known as “swoop and settle,” is designed to save them money. Don’t accept the first offer—take time to:
- Follow your doctor’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments.
- Keep records of your medical bills, prescriptions, and therapy sessions.
- Document how your injuries are affecting your daily life, work, and hobbies.
At Genthe Law Firm, we can help you calculate the full value of your claim, including long-term medical costs and any pain and suffering.
What If the Driver is Uninsured or Flees the Scene?
If the driver at fault doesn’t have insurance or leaves the scene of the accident, you still have options:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If you have auto insurance, this type of coverage may apply to bicycle accidents.
- Crime Victims’ Compensation Program: Texas offers financial assistance to hit-and-run victims for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
- Evidence: Report the accident to the police immediately and share any photos, videos, or witness statements you have.
Hit-and-run and uninsured driver cases can get complicated, but our team at Genthe Law Firm knows how to fight for you. Call us at 214-957-0898 to explore your options.
Dallas Bicycle Accident Trends
Dallas sees its share of bicycle accidents, with many occurring in high-traffic areas or spots with limited bike infrastructure. According to the Texas Department of Transportation:
- Dallas County consistently ranks among the top counties in Texas for bicycle crashes.
- Common hotspots include downtown Dallas, Greenville Avenue, and intersections near White Rock Lake and Katy Trail.
Understanding where accidents frequently happen can help frame your claim and provide context if liability is contested.
How to Handle Insurance Companies
When the driver’s insurance company contacts you, remember this: their goal is to protect their bottom line, not yours. Here’s how to handle their calls:
- Stick to the Facts: Share basic information like your name, the accident date, and location. Don’t speculate about fault.
- Avoid Recorded Statements: Politely decline any request for a recorded statement—they can twist your words to minimize your claim.
- Request Written Communication: This keeps things clear and creates a record of what’s been said.
At Genthe Law Firm, we can handle these conversations for you, so you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing.
How We Can Help
When you work with Genthe Law Firm, we handle everything so you can focus on healing. Our experienced team will:
- Investigate your accident and gather evidence.
- Deal with the insurance company to push back against low offers.
- Fight for fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
We have a proven track record of helping Dallas cyclists recover after serious accidents. Call us at 214-957-0898 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Final Thoughts
At Genthe Law Firm, our bicycle accident injury attorneys are here to support Dallas cyclists who’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence. By acting quickly, documenting everything, and seeking the right legal help, you can protect your rights and secure the compensation you need.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t wait. Call 214-957-0898 today for a free consultation. And don’t forget to download our free Bicycle Crash Documentation Template to make sure you’re prepared in case of an accident. Let’s fight for the justice you deserve.