Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
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Motorcycle accidents are the worst type of motor vehicle accident in which you could be involved. While drivers and passengers in cars, vans, trucks, and other vehicles have seat belts, airbags, and their vehicle itself to protect them from the impact of a crash, motorcyclists have none of these.
Only a motorcycle helmet and protective clothing stand between a motorcyclist and severe, often life-altering personal injury. The Cox Pradia Law Firm, P.L.L.C. is a proud advocate for motorcycle awareness and safety.
If you or a loved one has been hit by a negligent driver and needs compensation, a Houston motorcycle accident lawyer from our team is here for you. We have the experience and track record needed to handle your case skillfully and to get the best possible results so that you can focus on healing from your accident.
The Serious Nature of Motorcycle Accidents
While some accidents are caused because the motorcyclist themself is reckless or distracted, most motor vehicle accidents involving motorcyclists are the result of inattentive drivers.
Driving or riding on a motorcycle can be significantly more dangerous than traveling in a car due to several factors. Motorcycles lack the protective structure of an enclosed vehicle, leaving riders more exposed to the elements and potential collisions. The risk factors associated with motorcycles include:
- Vulnerability: Motorcycles offer minimal physical protection in the event of an accident. Riders are exposed to direct impacts from other vehicles, road debris, and weather conditions, increasing the likelihood and severity of injuries.
- Balance and Maneuverability: Motorcycles require a higher level of balance and coordination compared to cars. Sudden maneuvers or changes in road conditions can be challenging to handle, especially for inexperienced riders.
- Visibility: Motorcycles are often less visible to other drivers, particularly in blind spots. This can lead to accidents caused by drivers not noticing motorcycles or misjudging their speed and distance.
- Road Conditions: Uneven road surfaces, gravel, potholes, and other hazards that might be manageable in a car can pose significant dangers to motorcycles, potentially causing loss of control.
- Weather: Weather conditions that might be minor inconveniences for car drivers, such as rain, wind, or slippery surfaces, can pose greater risks to motorcyclists.
- Distracted Drivers: Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone, poses a higher risk to motorcyclists as drivers may not notice them in their peripheral vision.
- Less Crash Protection: Motorcycles lack safety features like airbags, seat belts, and the structural integrity of cars, which can help mitigate injuries in accidents.
- Inexperience: Novice riders or those without proper training are more susceptible to accidents due to a lack of skill and understanding of motorcycle dynamics.
- Speed and Risky Behavior: Motorcycles can accelerate quickly and provide a sense of freedom on the road, leading some riders to engage in risky behavior, such as excessive speeding or weaving through traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Lack of Enclosure: Motorcyclists are exposed to elements such as rain, wind, and debris, which can impact comfort and concentration.
It’s important to note that while motorcycles come with higher risks, many motorcyclists take safety precautions, wear protective gear, and follow responsible riding practices to mitigate these dangers. Additionally, proper training, adhering to traffic rules, and staying alert can contribute to safer motorcycle riding experiences. Call our experienced motorcycle accident lawyer today if you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault.
What Are Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Most motorists on the road change lanes and turn corners without making a real, conscious effort to check their surroundings for motorcyclists. As a result, many innocent motorcyclists are severely injured when they are hit by other motorists on the road.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Reckless driving or speeding
- Failing to properly check “blind spots” before changing lanes, merging, or turning
- Texting/talking on the phone while driving
- Driving through an intersection without checking for motorcyclists
- Failing to yield to motorcyclists
- Running a red light
What Are Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents?
Injuries common to motorcycle accident cases include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Lane Splitting – As of the last update in September 2021, lane splitting is not explicitly legal in Texas. Texas law doesn’t specifically address or permit lane splitting, which means that it’s generally not recognized as a legal practice. Motorcyclists are typically expected to follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles. Keep in mind that laws can change, and it’s important to stay updated on the latest regulations in your area. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, I recommend checking the official Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website or consulting legal resources to confirm the current status of lane splitting in Texas.
Take immediate action if you’ve been injured because of a negligent driver. The Cox Pradia Law Firm, P.L.L.C., experienced motorcycle lawyer is here to help!
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Once you have checked yourself and others for injuries, you should do the following:
- Gather the other involved drivers’ information, including insurance information
- Contact the police and fill out a police report
- Take pictures of the scene of the accident, including damage to your vehicle
- Obtain any eyewitness statements if possible
- Contact your own insurance company and inform them of the accident
- Reach out to a motorcycle accident lawyer near you
Texas Motorcycle Accident Statistics 2019
- Although 2019 data is not yet available, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that in 2018 there were over 400 motorcyclist fatalities in Texas.
- Of those involved in fatal crashes in 2018, only 205 motorcyclists were wearing helmets, while 194 were confirmed to not be helmeted at the time of their accident.
Consult an Experienced Houston Motorcycle Injury Lawyer
The sooner you retain a personal injury lawyer from Houston to represent you, the better. Once you retain our firm, a lawyer can begin investigating your case to gather evidence and fight for you.
Call us today! Your initial consultation with our Houston motorcycle accident lawyer is free!