Cycling at night? Remember these safety tips to reduce your risk.
Driver Charged With DWI After Hitting and Critically Injuring a Cyclist
According to a News4SanAntonio report, a man was charged with DWI after striking a cyclist on San Antonio’s Inner West Side.¹
Police reported the crash occurred around 6:50 p.m. Saturday, December 13th, near Frio City Road and Dorris Street. Investigators said a man was driving northeast on Frio City Road when he struck a 48-year-old cyclist traveling in front of him.
The cyclist suffered critical injuries and was rushed to the hospital. The driver remained at the scene but was found to be intoxicated and was arrested on a DWI charge.
Did You Know?
In 2024, 1,053 people were killed in Texas motor vehicle crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver, accounting for more than 25% of all traffic fatalities statewide.²
Cycling at Night? Protect Yourself With These Safety Tips
Cycling is a popular and practical way to get around San Antonio, but riding at night comes with added risks—especially when impaired drivers are on the road. The crash on Frio City Road is a painful reminder that cyclists are especially vulnerable when drivers aren’t paying attention or are under the influence.
In the wintertime and especially around the holidays, drivers are more likely to be fatigued, drunk, or distracted after dark. If you’re planning on cycling after dark, knowing this and taking precautions to protect yourself is the best way to reduce your risk of being hit by a reckless driver.
Why Nighttime Cycling Is More Dangerous
Regardless of the time of year, accidents involving cyclists are more likely to happen after dark for a few key reasons:
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Reduced visibility — Drivers may not see cyclists until it’s too late.
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Impaired or distracted driving — Alcohol, fatigue, and phone use are more common in the evening hours.
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Higher speeds — Roads are often less congested at night, tempting some drivers to speed.
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Poor lighting conditions — Dim streets make it harder to judge distance and movement.
When alcohol is involved, all of these risks increase dramatically.
Night Cycling Safety Tips for Texas Riders
While drivers have a legal duty to watch for cyclists, it only takes one small mistake to create a catastrophic accident. You can’t control the actions of other drivers, but you can take steps to make yourself more visible and reduce risk:
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Use front and rear bike lights — A white light in front and a red light in back are essential to improving visibility.
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Wear reflective clothing or gear — Reflective vests, ankle bands, or tape can help drivers spot movement at greater distances, giving them more time to react.
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Avoid dark clothing — Dark clothing makes an already difficult-to-see rider essentially invisible. Choose lighter colors every time.
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Ride predictably — Follow traffic laws and avoid sudden lane changes.
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Stay alert at intersections — Many serious cycling crashes happen when drivers fail to yield.
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Avoid high-traffic roads at night when possible.
Of course, you can do everything right and still be injured by a reckless driver.
Legal Consequences When a Drunk Driver Hits a Cyclist
Driving while intoxicated is not just reckless—it’s a crime. When a DWI driver seriously injures a cyclist, they may face:
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Criminal charges, including felony DWI if serious bodily injury is involved
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License suspension
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Jail or prison time
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Fines and court costs
In addition to any criminal penalties the driver will face, injured cyclists may pursue a civil personal injury claim to recover compensation for medical expenses and other expenses caused by the accident.
Even if the driver stayed at the scene, intoxication can significantly impact liability and damages in a civil case.
What Cyclists Should Do After a Crash
If you’re hit while cycling at night:
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Call 911 immediately and request medical help.
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Do not refuse medical care, even if injuries aren’t obvious.
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Document the scene if you’re able—photos, witnesses, and vehicle information matter. If you’re not able, ask a witness for help.
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Avoid discussing fault at the scene.
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Speak with an attorney before dealing with insurance companies.
Early legal guidance can help protect your rights and preserve evidence, especially if the driver flees the scene.
Injured While Cycling in San Antonio? Call Shaw.
Cyclists deserve safe roads—not reckless drivers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident involving a drunk or negligent driver anywhere in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Emergency medical care
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Hospital and rehabilitation costs
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Long-term disability or impairment
- And More
We’ll help you find out if you have a case for free.
📞 Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 or use our live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with an experienced cyclist accident lawyer in San Antonio.
No fees. No pressure. Just experienced legal guidance when you need it most.
Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for over 32 years because we put our clients first.
We look forward to serving you.