Two Killed in Wichita Falls Bicycle Accident on I-44: Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable

Every year, thousands of cyclists share the road with vehicles across Texas. But when a bicycle and a motor vehicle collide—especially on a high-speed interstate—the results can be catastrophic. On March 25, 2026, two bicyclists lost their lives after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate 44 near the Bacon Switch exit in Wichita Falls, Texas. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the deadly accident occurred on a service road, claiming both cyclists’ lives.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating these accidents can be. With over 25 years of experience fighting for victims of motor vehicle crashes, our team understands the unique challenges these cases present. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Wichita Falls or anywhere in Texas, you need an attorney who knows how to hold negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable.

What Happened on I-44 in Wichita Falls?

On the morning of March 25, 2026, two bicyclists were traveling along a service road adjacent to Interstate 44 in Wichita Falls. According to the Texas DPS, a vehicle struck both cyclists, resulting in fatal injuries. The identities of the victims have not been released, and further details about the accident remain limited as the investigation continues.

What we do know is this: bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles on Texas roads. When drivers fail to respect those rights—whether through distraction, fatigue, speeding, or simple negligence—the consequences can be deadly. The fact that this tragedy occurred on a service road near a major interstate raises serious questions about driver awareness, road design, and whether proper safety measures were in place.

The Dangers of Bicycle Accidents on Texas Highways

Bicycle accidents on or near highways like I-44 are particularly dangerous for several reasons:

1. Speed Disparity: Vehicles traveling at highway speeds have less time to react to cyclists. A collision at 55+ mph is almost always fatal for a bicyclist.
2. Limited Visibility: Cyclists are smaller and harder to see, especially in blind spots or during low-light conditions.
3. Road Design: Service roads and highway shoulders are not designed for bicycle traffic. Narrow lanes, debris, and lack of barriers increase risk.
4. Driver Distraction: Highway driving can lull drivers into complacency. A momentary lapse in attention can have deadly consequences.
5. Fatigue and Impairment: Long-haul drivers and local commuters alike may be fatigued or impaired, reducing reaction times.

In this case, the accident occurred on a service road—a common route for cyclists but also a high-risk area where vehicles enter and exit the interstate. These transition zones are particularly hazardous because drivers are often focused on merging or exiting rather than scanning for cyclists.

Who Is Liable in a Fatal Bicycle Accident?

Determining liability in bicycle accidents requires a thorough investigation. In this case, several parties could potentially be held accountable:

1. The Driver of the Vehicle

The driver who struck the cyclists may be liable for negligence if they:
– Failed to yield the right-of-way
– Were distracted (texting, using a phone, adjusting controls)
– Were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
– Were speeding or driving too fast for conditions
– Failed to maintain a safe distance from cyclists

Under Texas law, drivers must exercise “due care” to avoid colliding with pedestrians and cyclists. This includes:
– Maintaining a safe distance when passing
– Yielding to cyclists in crosswalks or when turning
– Being extra cautious in areas where cyclists are likely to be present

2. The Vehicle Owner (If Different from the Driver)

If the vehicle involved was owned by someone other than the driver (such as a rental car company or employer), the owner could be liable under theories of negligent entrustment—that is, allowing an unfit driver to operate their vehicle.

3. Government Entities (TxDOT, City of Wichita Falls)

Government agencies have a responsibility to design and maintain safe roads. If the accident was caused or worsened by:
– Poor road design (lack of bike lanes, unsafe shoulder conditions)
– Inadequate signage warning drivers of cyclists
– Failure to maintain the roadway (potholes, debris, poor lighting)
– Lack of barriers or safe crossing points

Then the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) or the City of Wichita Falls could share liability. However, claims against government entities are subject to strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines, so prompt legal action is essential.

4. Employers (If the Driver Was Working)

If the driver was operating a vehicle for work purposes (such as a delivery driver or employee running errands), their employer could be held liable under the doctrine of respondeat superior. This legal principle holds employers responsible for the negligent actions of their employees when those actions occur within the scope of employment.

5. Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers

If a vehicle defect contributed to the accident—such as:
– Brake failure
– Steering malfunction
– Tire blowout
– Defective lighting or visibility systems

Then the manufacturer of the vehicle or the defective part could be liable under product liability laws.

FMCSA Regulations and Bicycle Accidents: What Drivers Must Know

While bicyclists are not subject to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, the drivers who share the road with them are. Commercial drivers—including those operating large trucks, delivery vehicles, and even some passenger vehicles for work—must comply with strict federal safety rules. Violations of these regulations can serve as powerful evidence of negligence in a bicycle accident case.

Key FMCSA Regulations That Protect Cyclists

49 CFR § 392.2 – Applicability of the Rules

This regulation states that every commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver must comply with all FMCSA safety rules while operating on public roads. This includes service roads adjacent to interstates like I-44. Even if a driver isn’t hauling cargo, if they’re operating a vehicle over 10,001 pounds or designed to transport 16+ passengers, they must follow these rules.

49 CFR § 392.3 – Ill or Fatigued Operator

“No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle, while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to become impaired, through fatigue, illness, or any other cause, as to make it unsafe for him/her to begin or continue to operate the commercial motor vehicle.”

Why This Matters: Fatigue is a leading cause of truck and vehicle accidents. If the driver in this case was operating while fatigued—whether due to long hours, sleep disorders, or pressure from their employer—both the driver and their employer could be liable.

49 CFR § 392.80 – Prohibition Against Texting

“Drivers of commercial motor vehicles are prohibited from texting while driving.”

Why This Matters: Distracted driving is a growing epidemic. If the driver was texting, using a phone, or otherwise distracted at the time of the accident, this regulation provides clear evidence of negligence.

49 CFR § 392.82 – Using a Handheld Mobile Telephone

“Drivers are prohibited from:
– Using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving
– Reaching for a mobile telephone in a manner that requires the driver to leave their seated position or remove their seatbelt”

Why This Matters: Even hands-free phone use can be distracting. If the driver was using a phone at the time of the accident, this regulation could support a claim for negligence.

49 CFR § 392.14 – Hazardous Conditions; Extreme Caution

“Extreme caution in the operation of a commercial motor vehicle shall be exercised when hazardous conditions, such as those caused by snow, ice, sleet, fog, mist, rain, dust, or smoke, adversely affect visibility or traction. Speed shall be reduced when such conditions exist.”

Why This Matters: Even if weather conditions weren’t extreme, drivers must adjust their speed and behavior when visibility is reduced or when sharing the road with vulnerable users like cyclists.

Hours of Service Violations and Driver Fatigue

One of the most common—and deadly—violations in commercial driving is exceeding hours of service (HOS) limits. Under 49 CFR Part 395, drivers are limited to:
– 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
– 14-hour on-duty window (cannot drive beyond the 14th hour after coming on duty)
– 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
– 60/70-hour weekly limits (60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days)

Why This Matters: Fatigued driving impairs reaction time, judgment, and awareness—all critical when sharing the road with cyclists. If the driver in this case violated HOS regulations, it could be powerful evidence of negligence.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): The Truth Behind the Logs

Since December 18, 2017, most commercial drivers have been required to use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to record their hours of service. Unlike paper logs, ELDs are tamper-resistant and provide objective data about a driver’s activity.

What ELDs Record:
– Driving time and on-duty status
– GPS location and route
– Engine hours and vehicle movement
– Speed and braking events
– Duty status changes

Why This Matters: ELD data can prove whether a driver was fatigued, speeding, or distracted at the time of an accident. In this case, if the driver was operating a commercial vehicle, their ELD records could provide critical evidence about their actions leading up to the crash.

Proving Negligence in a Bicycle Accident Case

To hold a driver or other party accountable for a bicycle accident, you must prove negligence. In Texas, negligence requires showing four elements:

1. Duty: The driver owed a duty of care to the cyclist (e.g., to drive safely and obey traffic laws).
2. Breach: The driver breached that duty (e.g., by speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield).
3. Causation: The breach caused the accident and the cyclist’s injuries.
4. Damages: The cyclist suffered actual harm (injuries, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or wrongful death).

In fatal bicycle accidents like this one, the burden of proof shifts to the surviving family members to demonstrate that the driver’s negligence caused the death. This is where expert witnesses and accident reconstruction become critical.

Evidence That Can Prove Negligence

Wrongful Death Claims in Texas Bicycle Accidents

When a bicycle accident results in death, surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. Under the Texas Wrongful Death Act, the following family members can bring a claim:
– Surviving spouse
– Children (including adult children)
– Parents

Damages Available in Wrongful Death Cases:
– Lost income and financial support the deceased would have provided
– Loss of companionship, love, and guidance for surviving family members
– Mental anguish and emotional suffering
– Funeral and burial expenses
– Medical expenses incurred before death
– Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct)

Texas Statute of Limitations: Family members have 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, evidence disappears quickly, so it’s critical to act immediately.

Landmark Wrongful Death Verdicts in Texas

While every case is unique, recent verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when negligent drivers are held accountable:

• $730 Million (2021, Texas): A Texas jury awarded $730 million to the family of a woman killed by an oversize load on a Landstar Ranger truck. The verdict included $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages.
• $150 Million (2022, Texas): The largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history involved two children killed on I-30. The case settled for $150 million against Werner Enterprises.
• $37.5 Million (2024, Texas): A Texas jury awarded $37.5 million to the family of a trucking accident victim, demonstrating that juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence.

These verdicts show that when drivers and companies act with reckless disregard for safety, Texas juries respond with significant awards.

What to Do If You’ve Lost a Loved One in a Bicycle Accident

If you’ve lost a loved one in a bicycle accident, the steps you take in the days and weeks following the crash can significantly impact your ability to seek justice. Here’s what you should do:

1. Preserve Evidence Immediately

Evidence disappears quickly in fatal accidents. If you’re able to:
– Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions
– Get contact information for any witnesses
– Request a copy of the police report
– Do not speak to insurance adjusters without consulting an attorney

2. Demand Preservation of Electronic Data

If the driver was operating a commercial vehicle, their ELD and ECM data can provide critical evidence about their actions leading up to the crash. This data can be overwritten or deleted within 30 days, so it’s essential to send a spoliation letter demanding preservation.

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to ensure this evidence is preserved.

3. Investigate All Potentially Liable Parties

As discussed earlier, multiple parties could share liability in a fatal bicycle accident. A thorough investigation should examine:
– The driver’s background, training, and employment history
– The vehicle’s maintenance records
– The driver’s hours of service and ELD data
– Road design and signage
– Any potential vehicle defects

4. Consult an Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney

Wrongful death cases are complex and emotionally challenging. An experienced attorney can:
– Handle communications with insurance companies
– Investigate the accident and gather evidence
– Identify all liable parties
– Calculate the full value of your claim
– Negotiate with defendants or take your case to trial

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Bicycle Accident Case?

At Attorney911, we understand the devastating impact a fatal bicycle accident can have on families. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting for victims of motor vehicle crashes, including bicycle accidents. Here’s why families trust us with their most difficult cases:

1. We Know How to Fight Trucking Companies

We’ve taken on some of the largest trucking companies in America, including:
– Walmart
– Amazon
– Werner Enterprises
– J.B. Hunt
– Swift Transportation

We understand their tactics, their insurance strategies, and how to build a case that forces them to take responsibility.

2. We Have Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex cases that cross state lines or involve federal regulations.

3. We Include a Former Insurance Defense Attorney

Our team includes Lupe Peña, an associate attorney who previously worked for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims, minimize payouts, and deny liability. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims.

4. We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

Many cyclists and truck drivers in Texas speak Spanish as their primary language. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

5. We’ve Recovered Millions for Texas Families

Our track record speaks for itself:
– $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
– $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
– $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
– Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

6. We Treat You Like Family

We understand that after a tragic accident, you need more than just legal representation—you need support, compassion, and someone who will fight for you like family. Our clients consistently praise our personal attention and dedication:

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

7. We Work on Contingency—No Fee Unless We Win

We believe that everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

The Dangers of Bicycle Accidents on Texas Highways

Bicycle accidents on or near highways like I-44 are particularly dangerous due to several factors:

1. Speed Kills

The faster a vehicle is traveling, the more severe the injuries in a collision. At highway speeds (55+ mph), a cyclist has virtually no chance of survival in a crash. Even at lower speeds, the force of impact can cause catastrophic injuries.

2. Limited Visibility

Cyclists are smaller and harder to see than cars or trucks. Drivers may not notice them until it’s too late, especially in blind spots or during low-light conditions.

3. Road Design Flaws

Highways and service roads are not designed with cyclists in mind. Common hazards include:
– Narrow or nonexistent shoulders
– Debris and potholes
– Lack of bike lanes or safe crossing points
– Poor lighting
– Aggressive merging zones

4. Driver Distraction and Fatigue

Highway driving can lull drivers into complacency. Common distractions include:
– Cell phone use (texting, talking, GPS)
– Eating or drinking
– Adjusting vehicle controls
– Fatigue from long hours behind the wheel

5. Impaired Driving

Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination—all critical for safe driving. Despite strict laws, impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal accidents.

How Texas Law Protects Cyclists

Texas law provides several protections for cyclists:

1. Right to the Road

Under Texas Transportation Code § 551.101, bicyclists have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle operators. This means drivers must respect cyclists’ right to use the road.

2. Safe Passing Laws

Texas Transportation Code § 545.053 requires drivers to:
– Maintain a safe distance when passing cyclists (at least 3 feet for passenger vehicles, 6 feet for commercial vehicles)
– Move into an adjacent lane if possible when passing
– Not return to the right side of the road until safely clear of the cyclist

3. Vulnerable Road User Laws

Texas has specific laws protecting “vulnerable road users,” including cyclists. Under Texas Transportation Code § 545.425, drivers who cause serious injury or death to a vulnerable road user can face enhanced penalties, including:
– Fines up to $10,000
– License suspension
– Mandatory community service

4. Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means that even if the cyclist was partially at fault for the accident, they (or their family) can still recover damages—as long as they were not more than 50% at fault. If the cyclist was 20% at fault, for example, their recovery would be reduced by 20%.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Texas

Bicycle accidents can happen for many reasons, but some of the most common causes include:

1. Failure to Yield the Right-of-Way

Drivers often fail to yield to cyclists at intersections, crosswalks, or when turning. This is a leading cause of bicycle accidents.

2. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing epidemic. Common distractions include:
– Texting or using a phone
– Eating or drinking
– Adjusting vehicle controls
– Talking to passengers
– Daydreaming or fatigue

3. Dooring Accidents

“Dooring” occurs when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of a cyclist. This can cause the cyclist to crash or be thrown into traffic.

4. Unsafe Lane Changes

Drivers who change lanes without checking their blind spots can collide with cyclists traveling alongside them.

5. Speeding

Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to cyclists and increases the severity of injuries in a crash.

6. Impaired Driving

Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it more likely that a driver will collide with a cyclist.

7. Poor Road Conditions

Potholes, debris, and poorly maintained roads can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.

8. Inadequate Lighting or Signage

Poor lighting or lack of signage can make it difficult for drivers to see cyclists, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Bicycle Accident

If you’re involved in a bicycle accident, your actions in the moments and days following the crash can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Delaying treatment can also give insurance companies ammunition to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident.

2. Call the Police

Always call the police to report the accident. A police report provides an official record of what happened and can be critical evidence in your case.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able to, take photographs of:
– The accident scene
– Vehicle damage
– Your injuries
– Road conditions
– Traffic signals or signs
– Skid marks or debris

4. Get Witness Information

If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information. Witness testimony can be powerful evidence in proving fault.

5. Do Not Admit Fault

Avoid apologizing or admitting fault at the scene. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you later.

6. Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters Without an Attorney

Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Anything you say can be used to minimize or deny your claim. Politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney.

7. Contact an Experienced Bicycle Accident Attorney

Bicycle accident cases are complex and require specialized knowledge. An experienced attorney can:
– Investigate the accident and gather evidence
– Identify all liable parties
– Handle communications with insurance companies
– Calculate the full value of your claim
– Negotiate with defendants or take your case to trial

How Attorney911 Investigates Bicycle Accident Cases

At Attorney911, we leave no stone unturned when investigating bicycle accident cases. Our investigation process includes:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to demand preservation of all evidence, including:
– ELD and ECM data
– Cell phone records
– Maintenance records
– Driver qualification files
– Dashcam footage

2. Accident Reconstruction

We work with accident reconstruction experts to determine:
– How the accident occurred
– The speed and direction of the vehicles involved
– The point of impact
– Whether the driver could have avoided the collision

3. Driver Background Investigation

We obtain the driver’s:
– Driving record
– Employment history
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Hours of service records
– Training records

4. Vehicle Inspection

We inspect the vehicle involved for:
– Brake defects
– Tire condition
– Lighting and visibility issues
– Any other mechanical failures

5. Road Design Analysis

We examine whether poor road design contributed to the accident, including:
– Inadequate signage
– Poor lighting
– Lack of bike lanes or safe crossing points
– Debris or potholes

6. Witness Interviews

We interview witnesses to gather independent accounts of what happened.

7. Expert Consultations

We consult with medical experts, vocational experts, and economists to calculate the full value of your claim.

The Role of Insurance in Bicycle Accident Cases

Insurance plays a critical role in bicycle accident cases. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Minimum Insurance Requirements in Texas

Texas requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:
– $30,000 per person for bodily injury
– $60,000 per accident for bodily injury
– $25,000 for property damage

However, many drivers carry only the minimum, which may not be enough to cover the full cost of a serious bicycle accident.

2. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)

If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, your own UM/UIM coverage can provide additional compensation. This coverage is optional in Texas but highly recommended for cyclists.

3. Commercial Insurance Policies

If the at-fault driver was operating a commercial vehicle, their employer’s insurance policy may provide much higher coverage limits—often $1 million or more.

4. Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. Common tactics include:
– Lowball settlement offers (often made before you know the full extent of your injuries)
– Delaying the claims process (hoping you’ll give up or accept a low offer)
– Denying liability (arguing that you were at fault or that their driver wasn’t negligent)
– Disputing your injuries (arguing that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or aren’t as severe as you claim)

5. How We Fight Back

At Attorney911, we know how insurance companies operate. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who understands their tactics from the inside. We:
– Never accept the first offer (it’s always a lowball)
– Demand full compensation for all your damages
– Prepare every case for trial (insurance companies offer better settlements when they know you’re ready to go to court)
– Hold them accountable for bad faith practices

The Cost of Bicycle Accidents: Why Compensation Matters

Bicycle accidents can result in devastating injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long-term care. Here are some of the costs victims and their families may face:

1. Medical Expenses

• Emergency room visits
• Hospitalization
• Surgery
• Rehabilitation
• Physical therapy
• Medications
• Assistive devices (wheelchairs, prosthetics, etc.)

2. Lost Wages

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for:
– Lost income
– Reduced earning capacity
– Missed promotions or career opportunities

3. Pain and Suffering

Bicycle accidents can cause significant physical pain and emotional suffering, including:
– Chronic pain
– Anxiety and depression
– Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
– Loss of enjoyment of life

4. Wrongful Death Damages

If a loved one was killed in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
– Funeral and burial expenses
– Loss of financial support
– Loss of companionship and guidance
– Mental anguish

5. Property Damage

• Bicycle repair or replacement
• Clothing and personal items damaged in the accident

How Much Is Your Bicycle Accident Case Worth?

The value of your bicycle accident case depends on several factors, including:

1. Severity of Injuries

More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation. Common bicycle accident injuries include:
– Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering brain damage.
– Spinal Cord Injuries: Can result in partial or complete paralysis.
– Broken Bones: Common in bicycle accidents, especially to the arms, legs, and ribs.
– Road Rash: Severe skin abrasions that can require skin grafts and leave permanent scars.
– Internal Injuries: Damage to organs, internal bleeding, or punctured lungs.
– Wrongful Death: If a loved one was killed, surviving family members may be entitled to significant compensation.

2. Medical Expenses

The cost of medical treatment is a major factor in determining case value. This includes:
– Past medical bills
– Future medical expenses
– Rehabilitation costs
– Assistive devices

3. Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for:
– Lost income
– Reduced earning capacity
– Missed career opportunities

4. Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering compensation is designed to compensate you for the physical and emotional toll of your injuries. Factors that can increase pain and suffering awards include:
– Chronic pain
– Permanent disability
– Disfigurement
– Emotional distress
– Loss of enjoyment of life

5. Degree of Negligence

If the driver’s negligence was particularly egregious (e.g., drunk driving, hit-and-run, or reckless behavior), you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

6. Insurance Coverage

The amount of insurance coverage available can limit your recovery. However, if the at-fault driver was operating a commercial vehicle, their employer’s insurance policy may provide much higher limits.

Why Time Is Critical in Bicycle Accident Cases

Evidence disappears quickly in bicycle accident cases. Here’s why you need to act fast:

1. Electronic Data Can Be Overwritten

• ELD and ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days
• Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
• Cell phone records may be purged after a few months

2. Witness Memories Fade

Witnesses’ memories of the accident fade over time. The sooner you gather their statements, the more accurate they’ll be.

3. Physical Evidence Disappears

• Skid marks wash away
• Debris is cleared
• Vehicles are repaired or sold
• Road conditions change

4. Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to seek compensation forever.

How Attorney911 Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Wichita Falls or anywhere in Texas, Attorney911 can help. Here’s what we offer:

1. Free Consultation

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explain your legal options.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to demand preservation of all evidence, including ELD data, cell phone records, and maintenance logs.

3. Thorough Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in investigating your case, including:
– Accident reconstruction
– Driver background checks
– Vehicle inspections
– Road design analysis
– Witness interviews

4. Aggressive Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to demand full compensation for your injuries.

5. Trial-Ready Representation

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know we’re ready to fight for our clients in court, which strengthens our negotiating position.

6. Contingency Fee Basis

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accidents

1. What should I do immediately after a bicycle accident?

• Seek medical attention
• Call the police
• Document the scene (take photos, get witness information)
• Do not admit fault
• Do not speak to insurance adjusters without an attorney
• Contact an experienced bicycle accident attorney

2. Who can be held liable in a bicycle accident?

Multiple parties could be liable, including:
– The driver of the vehicle
– The vehicle owner (if different from the driver)
– The driver’s employer (if they were working at the time)
– Government entities (if poor road design contributed to the accident)
– Vehicle or parts manufacturers (if a defect caused the accident)

3. What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may provide compensation. This coverage is optional in Texas but highly recommended for cyclists.

4. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

5. How long do I have to file a bicycle accident lawsuit in Texas?

You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. If a loved one was killed, you have 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

6. How much is my bicycle accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors, including:
– Severity of your injuries
– Medical expenses
– Lost wages
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of negligence
– Insurance coverage

7. Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?

Never accept the first offer. Insurance companies often make lowball offers before you know the full extent of your injuries. Consult an attorney before accepting any settlement.

8. Do I need an attorney for a bicycle accident case?

Bicycle accident cases are complex and require specialized knowledge. An experienced attorney can:
– Investigate the accident and gather evidence
– Identify all liable parties
– Handle communications with insurance companies
– Calculate the full value of your claim
– Negotiate with defendants or take your case to trial

9. How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

10. What if my loved one was killed in a bicycle accident?

If a loved one was killed in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Damages may include:
– Funeral and burial expenses
– Loss of financial support
– Loss of companionship and guidance
– Mental anguish

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Justice

The tragic deaths of the two cyclists on I-44 in Wichita Falls serve as a stark reminder of the dangers cyclists face on Texas roads. When drivers fail to respect cyclists’ rights—whether through distraction, fatigue, speeding, or simple negligence—the consequences can be deadly.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, you deserve justice. You deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. And most importantly, you deserve to hold the negligent parties accountable for their actions.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for victims of motor vehicle crashes. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered millions of dollars for Texas families, and our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows how to fight back against insurance company tactics.

We treat our clients like family, and we fight for them like family. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in Wichita Falls or anywhere in Texas, we’re here to help.

Take Action Now: Your Future Depends on It

Evidence disappears quickly in bicycle accident cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you take the first steps toward justice.

Don’t wait. Don’t let the evidence disappear. Call us today.

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Attorney911: Fighting for Texas Families Since 1998
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com | lupe@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
Serving clients across Texas and beyond