The first thought that comes to your mind when talking about Houston, Texas is that this city is a great place to ride a bicycle. This place even received recognition by the League, a bronze-level bicycle-friendly community award. But, there are certain laws meant for cycling on trails and sidewalks. Based on the Houston Bicycle Law, one is not permitted to ride on the sidewalks, unless there have been any rough conditions on the road.
Moreover, a bicyclist has to maintain the direction according to the traffic on the road and should keep to the extreme left side. These rules are primarily made so that a bicyclist can stay away from any unwanted accidents — while passing other vehicles, taking any turns, and avoiding any kind of obstructions. Based on Chapter 14 Traffic, Article XII Bicycles, you get a detailed code of ordinance for bicycle rides.
Now, accidents are unintentional and also often inevitable, because you are sharing the same road with four-wheelers and large vehicles. If you get into any bicycle accidents, then the immediate action would be to get first aid, and then contact a bicycle accident lawyer.
A lawyer can help you to prevent any negligence on your part and also recover the compensation. Only professional lawyers can communicate on your part and negotiate with the insurance company.
So, you must contact an attorney who has been in this field for many years and also has a high success rate. Here are 8 questions that you need to ask your attorney and select a proficient one who knows the rights and can also protect them.
What is the background record of the attorney for fighting for your rights during bicycle accidents?
Many lawyers claim that they have enough experience to deal with every kind of bicycle accident, but only a thorough background verification can confirm this fact. You can go through the local state bar association to verify the qualification records.
Is the lawyer aware of the basic rights of a bicyclist?
A lawyer must be acquainted with the basic norms so that they can defend you during the situation. This includes the prohibition of riding on roadways, riding on side walkways, certain definitions also include child riding a bicycle, helmet requirement, lease of bicycles and penalties for violation of the rules. This will help to build a strong case and the final verdict will be in your favour.
What is the opinion of the Houston Bicycle Accident Lawyer about your case?
You must ask the lawyer clearly what your standpoint is in the entire case. If you think that there is a negative impact, then you must decide whether you want to continue or not. Suppose the insurance company denies making any settlement, then will the bicycle accident attorney be able to help you to file an injury lawsuit?
How long will it take for the case to get settled?
Time is indeed crucial in this matter, and you do not want a certain case to proceed for any longer than 6 months. So, ask the lawyer if there are any such factors that can extend the time.
How much will you get as compensation?
Get a rough estimation and understand other factors that can amount to the compensation. Most importantly if the compensation is too less than the time, effort and money you are going to spend on the lawyer, then you should drop the idea.
Are you comfortable and can you completely trust the working process?
You must be comfortable sharing all the details of the accident from the very beginning to the end, with the lawyer. You might have to give a few sittings to discuss your case with them and so you must feel confident enough in their lawsuit process and abilities.
What is the success rate if it leads to a trial?
You must get to the details of the lawyer and ask them if they can help you to get what you deserve. There are lawyers who fail at defending the case, and so a deep understanding of the matter is important.
What are the fees of the attorney?
Some lawyers work under the agreement of contingency fees, i.e. unless and until you get the compensation they won’t charge you any amount.
Conclusion…..
Along with these important questions, you must also ask the minor ones to be clear about every aspect before you decide to proceed with the lawyer or the law firm. If it is a consultancy firm then you need to get in touch with the lawyer who is going to handle your case.