Who is at Fault in a Bicycle Accident in Texas?

Understanding liability when it comes to bicycle vehicle accidents can help protect your rights. Whether you’re cycling through Frisco’s growing urban center, commuting to work, or enjoying the trails around the Stonebriar Centre. Let’s explore how fault is determined in bicycle accidents within Frisco and the broader Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. If you’re involved in a crash, determining fault is crucial for seeking compensation. Texas law holds both drivers and cyclists accountable for following the rules of the road, but who is at fault can depend on the specifics of the accident.

How Is Fault Determined in a Frisco Bicycle Accident?

Texas operates under a comparative negligence system. This means both parties can share fault in an accident. If you are less than 51% at fault, you may still seek compensation, but your settlement will be adjusted based on your percentage of responsibility.

Here are some key factors that determine fault in a bicycle accident:

• Traffic Violations – Running a red light at Main Street, failing to yield, or speeding can indicate negligence.
• Right of Way Laws – Ignoring right-of-way rules, especially at busy intersections like Gaylord Parkway and Main Street, may result in liability.
• Distracted or Aggressive Driving – Texting, speeding, or failing to check blind spots while changing lanes can lead to driver liability.
• Dooring Accidents – If a driver opens their door into a cyclist’s path, especially along roads like Legacy Drive or near Frisco’s restaurants and shops, the driver is usually at fault.
• Bike Lane Violations – Drivers blocking or swerving into bike lanes in areas like the Frisco Commons Park may be held responsible.

Common Bicycle Accidents in Frisco and the DFW Area

• Intersection Accidents
  Frisco’s busy intersections, like the one at Dallas Parkway and Main Street, are often sites for bicycle accidents. If a driver turns without checking for cyclists, they are usually at fault. However, if a cyclist runs a red light or fails to yield, they may be responsible.
• Bike Lane and Shoulder Collisions
  Many of Frisco’s newer developments have incorporated bike lanes, but some areas, like along Main Street or near the Star in Frisco, still lack protected lanes. In these situations, both cyclists and drivers may share fault if one veers into the other’s lane.
• Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accidents
  Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents also occur in Frisco. If a driver flees the scene, they face criminal charges. Cyclists should immediately report the accident to Frisco PD, gather evidence (such as security camera footage), and contact a legal professional for assistance.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Frisco

If you’re involved in a bicycle accident in Frisco or surrounding areas, follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident to the Frisco Police Department or the appropriate local authorities.
2. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries.
3. Get Witness Information – If anyone saw the crash (especially around areas like the Frisco Square or nearby shopping centers), get their contact information.
4. Seek Medical Care – Even if you feel okay, injuries like concussions or fractures might not be immediately noticeable.
5. Contact a Local Bicycle Accident Lawyer – A local attorney who understands the roads and liability laws in Frisco can help you build a solid case.

Know Your Rights After a Bicycle Accident in Frisco

Cycling in Frisco comes with its own set of challenges. From busy traffic to the need for better cycling infrastructure. If you’ve been involved in an accident, understanding how liability works under Texas’ comparative negligence law is key to recovering compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Whether you were biking near the Frisco Heritage Museum, along the Rail Trail, or around the Stonebriar Centre, consulting a local attorney with expertise in Frisco bicycle accidents can make all the difference in securing a fair outcome.

If you are involved in a bicycle accident, contact the professionals at Reynolds & Reynolds. We can help you through the details of your accident, so contact our attorneys here or call (972) 684-5011 to speak with someone today. Follow us on Facebook for updates and legal tips, and contact Reynolds & Reynolds to discuss your case.