Bike Accident Victim Files Lawsuit Against City of Houston After Hitting Pothole

HOUSTON – A cyclist seriously injured after hitting a pothole has filed a lawsuit against the city of Houston, claiming the street where it happened was previously flagged but still hadn’t been repaired.

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This happened in November 2023, when the lawsuit says Patrick Lusby was riding his bike on the designated bike lane on Heights Blvd. just north of Waugh Bridge. After hitting a huge pothole, he fell off his bike and hit his face on the pavement, where he was seriously injured.

The lawsuit alleges the city already knew about the condition of that street, saying “it had already been reported to the City of Houston” and either it had not been repaired or it had not been done correctly.

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Lusby is seeking damages for the injuries he suffered and for his medical expenses. KPRC 2 reporter Bryce Newberry is expected to speak with Lusby later today to learn more about what happened and is contacting the City of Houston for comment.

According to the City’s website, it is possible to report a pothole, but residents cannot be reimbursed for vehicle damage, saying: “Texas law determines whether the City and Other Texas state government entities may pay for damage caused by a pothole or object in the street. Under state law, the City is not responsible for property damage caused by the conditions of its streets.

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However, during last November’s election season, then-mayoral candidate John Whitmire said during a KPRC 2 television debate in October that he was committed to fixing the city’s infrastructure.

“It’s not just the potholes anymore, now it’s the whole street,” he said. “These are concrete slabs that are sinking into the ground and destroying our cars.”