Texas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Types of Motorcycle Accidents We Handle

Our aggressive legal team has successfully represented clients in various types of motorcycle crashes throughout Texas:

Left-Turn Accidents

These are the most frequent types of motorcycle collisions. They happen when a driver making a left turn at an intersection fails to notice an approaching motorcycle, leading to a direct and often severe impact.

Rear-End Collisions

These accidents pose a significant threat to motorcyclists. They typically occur when a driver following too closely is unable to stop in time, striking the motorcycle from behind at a stop sign, traffic light, or in slow-moving traffic.

Sideswipe Accidents

Often caused by inattentive drivers, these crashes happen when a car or truck merges into a motorcyclist's lane without checking their blind spot. The resulting sideswipe can force the rider off the road or into another lane of traffic.

Head-On Collisions

These are some of the most catastrophic motorcycle accidents. They usually take place on two-lane roads when a driver crosses the centerline and collides head-on with a motorcycle traveling in the opposite direction.

Lane-Splitting Accidents

As of September 2023, lane splitting is now illegal in Texas, but these accidents still occur. They involve a motorcycle attempting to ride between lanes of traffic, which can result in a collision with a vehicle that is changing lanes or making a sudden move.

Hit and Run Accidents

In these distressing cases, the driver responsible for the crash flees the scene, leaving the injured motorcyclist without immediate assistance or identification of the at-fault party.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents

These are often complex cases involving a motorcycle and two or more other vehicles. They are common on congested highways and at busy intersections where a chain reaction of events can lead to a crash.

Impaired Driver Accidents

We represent victims of crashes caused by drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These drivers' reduced reaction times and impaired judgment often prevent them from seeing a motorcycle or taking the necessary action to prevent a collision.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Texas

Texas roads present unique dangers for motorcyclists, with many crashes resulting from the negligence of other drivers. Understanding these common causes helps us build stronger cases for our clients while highlighting the vulnerability that riders face.

• Driver inattention and failure to see motorcycles: Driver inattention caused 798 motorcycle accidents in Texas in 2021. Many drivers simply don't look for motorcycles or fail to properly judge their speed and distance.
• Failure to yield right of way: Failure to yield when turning left caused 600 motorcycle accidents in Texas in 2021. These crashes often occur when drivers make left turns at intersections without seeing oncoming motorcycles.
• Speeding and unsafe speed: Speeding caused 1,640 motorcycle accidents in Texas in 2021, while unsafe speed for conditions caused another 734 crashes. High-speed impacts dramatically increase injury severity for motorcyclists.
• Distracted driving: Texting, phone calls, and other distractions cause drivers to miss seeing motorcycles entirely, leading to devastating crashes.
• Lane-changing accidents: Drivers who fail to check blind spots or use turn signals properly often collide with motorcycles when changing lanes.
• Following too closely: Tailgating is particularly dangerous for motorcyclists who can stop more quickly than cars, leading to serious rear-end collisions.
• Impaired driving: Drunk and drugged drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making them especially dangerous to motorcyclists who are already harder to see.
• Weather and road conditions: Although rain accounts for only 2% of motorcycle fatalities, hazardous conditions can still contribute to accidents if drivers fail to adjust their driving accordingly.

Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries We Handle

Our experienced personal injury attorneys have handled virtually every type of motorcycle accident injury. From road rash to life-changing traumatic brain injuries, we understand the medical and legal challenges involved in motorcycle injury claims.

• Traumatic brain injuries: TBI accounts for 54% of motorcycle fatalities and remains a serious concern even for helmeted riders. These serious injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can permanently impact a person's ability to work and enjoy life.
• Spinal cord injuries: Motorcycle crashes can cause devastating spinal injuries that may result in partial or complete paralysis. With nearly 40% of spinal cord injuries stemming from motor vehicle accidents, these cases typically involve substantial medical bills and long-term care needs.
• Road rash: The most common form of motorcycle injury occurs when riders are thrown from their bikes and skid on pavement. Severe road rash can require skin grafts and lead to permanent scarring or nerve damage.
• Broken bones and fractures: Lower-extremity injuries are sustained by motorcycle riders more frequently than any other type of injury, with leg injuries and bone fractures being particularly common.
• Internal injuries: The force of a motorcycle accident can cause internal bleeding and organ damage that may not be immediately apparent. These injuries can be life-threatening and require prompt medical attention.
• Burns: When motorcycle fuel tanks spill during crashes, riders can suffer severe burns that often require skin grafts and extensive medical treatment.
• Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears in muscles, ligaments, and tendons are common and can cause significant pain, swelling, and limited mobility, requiring ongoing medical care.

Damages You Can Recover in a Texas Motorcycle Accident Claim

When you've been injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else's negligence, Texas law allows you to seek compensation for various types of damages and losses. Our personal injury lawyers will work to ensure you receive fair compensation for all applicable damages.

• Medical expenses: This includes all costs related to your medical treatment, from emergency room visits to ongoing rehabilitation. We also consider future medical expenses that may be needed for your recovery, which can be substantial for serious motorcycle injuries.
• Lost wages: If your motorcycle accident injury prevents you from working, you can recover compensation for lost income. This includes both wages you've already lost and future earning capacity if your injuries cause permanent limitations.
• Pain and suffering: Motorcycle accidents often cause significant physical pain and emotional trauma. Texas law recognizes these non-economic damages as compensable losses, which can be substantial given the severity of motorcycle injuries.
• Rehabilitation costs: Many serious motorcycle injuries require extensive rehabilitation, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other specialized medical care that can continue for months or years.
• Property damage: Compensation for motorcycle repairs or replacement, as well as damage to safety gear and other personal property in the accident.
• Punitive damages: In cases involving drunk drivers, Texas law allows motorcycle accident victims to recover punitive damages, making these potentially very valuable claims.

In cases involving fatal motorcycle accidents, surviving family members may be able to pursue wrongful death claims for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Texas

The steps you take immediately following a motorcycle crash can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here's what you should do to protect your health and your legal rights:

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you think you're not seriously injured, it's essential to see a medical professional. Motorcycle accident injuries can be deceptive, and some conditions may not show symptoms immediately. Having medical records from right after the accident strengthens your personal injury case.

Call the Police

Always request that police respond to the accident scene. The police report will be important evidence in your motorcycle accident claim. Make sure to get the accident report number before leaving the scene.

Document Everything

If you're physically able, take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Get contact information from witnesses and the other driver. This documentation will be valuable when filing your injury claims.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance company, but be careful about what you say. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so it's wise to speak with a motorcycle accident attorney before giving detailed statements.

Don't Accept Quick Settlement Offers

The at-fault driver's insurance company may contact you quickly with a settlement offer. These initial offers are often far below what your case is worth, especially for serious motorcycle injuries. Consult with our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers before accepting any settlement.

Keep Detailed Records

Save all medical bills, documentation of lost wages, and records of other expenses related to your accident. This information will be vital for calculating the full value of your personal injury claims.

Avoid Social Media

Insurance companies often monitor social media accounts of accident victims. Avoid posting about your accident or injuries, as these posts can be taken out of context and used against you.

Texas Motorcycle Accident Laws You Should Know

Understanding Texas motorcycle accident laws can help you protect your rights and make informed decisions about your case. Our experienced personal injury attorneys stay current with all relevant Texas laws to provide you with knowledgeable representation.

• Modified comparative negligence: Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident, as long as you are 50% or less responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
• Helmet laws: Texas requires DOT-approved helmets for all riders under 21. Riders 21 and older may ride without a helmet if they have completed a motorcycle safety course or carry at least $10,000 in medical insurance. Not wearing a required helmet can affect your claim under comparative negligence rules.
• Statute of limitations: In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it's important to contact our injury lawyers as soon as possible to ensure evidence is preserved and your rights are protected.
• Insurance requirements: Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance. However, many drivers carry only the minimum coverage, which may not be sufficient to cover serious motorcycle accident injuries.
• Lane splitting: Texas prohibits lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic), and violations can affect fault determination in accident cases.