Police Investigating Death of Austin Bicyclists

Police are investigating a fatal accident that left a bicyclist dead in Cedar Park Sunday morning.

Details of the Fatal Bicycle Accident

The Austin American-Statesman states 67-year-old David Lutz of Austin was found with life-threatening injuries following an accident at Cypress Creek Road and El Salido Parkway. Police responded to the scene around 7:50 am.

It is unclear how the crash occurred and the incident is still under investigation.

Police did say the driver involved in the crash remained at the scene.

What Are Some Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?

When a bicycle accident does occur, it may not be immediately clear who is at fault. Below are a few common examples of bicycle accidents and who is typically at fault.

  • A Car Pulls Out from a Side Street or Parking Lot – This is probably the most common cause of bicycle accidents involving a motor vehicle. Studies have found that drivers tend to look into the middle of the road for oncoming traffic (where cars would normally be) and often fail to check bike lanes or sidewalks. In this example, the driver is at fault as the bicyclist would have the right-of-way.
  • A Driver Opens their Car Door into a Bicyclist – Motorists often fail to check their rear-view mirrors and blind spots for bicyclists before opening their door. In this case, the motorist would again be at fault provided the bicyclist was traveling in the same direction as traffic. If the bicyclist was traveling in the wrong direction, it could be shared fault.
  • A Car Turns in Front of a Cyclist – If a car turns in front of a bicyclist, it is the motorist’s fault. Drivers are expected to check for motor traffic, bike lane traffic, and pedestrian traffic before completing a turn.
  • A Car Hits a Bicyclist Traveling in the Same Direction – Currently, Texas does not have a state law for safe following distances or safe between distances when it comes to bicyclists. So, there can be confusion about what a safe distance is. Still, if a motorist strikes a bicyclist from behind, side-swipes a bicyclist, or enters a biking lane occupied by a cyclist, they will normally be held at fault.

Contact an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one were injured in a bicycle accident, contact Thomas J. Henry Law. Our Austin personal injury lawyers will take immediate action on your claim, putting you in the best position to achieve maximum compensation. We are available 24/7, nights and weekends.

Our Austin, Texas Personal Injury Law Offices

  • Phone Number(512) 520-0221 (attorneys available 24/7, nights and weekends)
  • Address:4401 West Gate Blvd Suite 200, Austin, TX 78745 (walk-in Monday through Friday)
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