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According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Texas ranks as the second most dangerous state for motorcyclists. A seemingly calm motorcycle ride through Heath, TX, could quickly turn dangerous, potentially leaving you with injuries or worse. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, a motorcycle injury lawyer can help guide you on what to do next and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Motorcycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, and many of these incidents are caused by factors outside of the motorcyclist’s control.
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is drivers who fail to notice motorcyclists on the road. Cars may not always spot a motorcyclist due to their smaller size or because they’re distracted by other things like texting, eating or talking on the phone.
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to poor road conditions, such as potholes, uneven surfaces or gravel. Unlike cars, motorcycles don’t have the same stability on these surfaces, making them more prone to skidding or losing control.
When drivers exceed speed limits, they create an unpredictable environment for those around them that makes it hard to react in time to potential hazards. Speeding is especially dangerous for motorcyclists, who need more time to stop safely.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major cause of accidents for all vehicles, including motorcycles. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and may not be able to judge distances or speed properly, putting motorcyclists at great risk.
Even non-contact incidents—where a motorcyclist must take evasive action to avoid an accident—can be extremely dangerous. When a negligent driver’s actions cause a rider to swerve, the sudden maneuver can result in a serious crash, often leading to severe injuries.
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Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable groups of road accident victims because they lack the protection that comes with being inside a vehicle. A motorcycle crash can lead to severe physical injuries.
The head is one of the most common areas affected in motorcycle accidents. Even if a rider wears a helmet, the impact from a crash can lead to concussions, skull fractures or brain injuries that cause permanent damage or long-term disabilities.
Motorcyclists are often thrown from their bikes during crashes, and this sudden force can result in broken bones, especially in the arms, legs and pelvis. For example, when a bike falls after a crash, the rider’s leg can get trapped under the motorcycle, causing fractures.
Road rash occurs when the skin is scraped off during a fall. The higher the speed, the more severe the road rash can be. Road rash may cause deep, painful wounds that require extensive medical treatment, and if not treated properly, it can lead to infections.
An avulsion injury happens when the skin is torn from the body, often due to friction caused by a motorcyclist hitting the road. These injuries can be particularly severe and may require surgical treatment to repair damaged tissue.
The spinal cord can be damaged during a motorcycle crash, leading to potential paralysis or chronic pain. These types of injuries can have life-altering consequences, affecting both the motorcyclist’s mobility and quality of life.
In most motorcycle accidents, the rider is not at fault. Many crashes are caused by inattentive or careless drivers who claim they didn’t see the motorcycle. Despite their smaller size, motorcycles are just as visible as any other vehicle on the road. Drivers must take responsibility for their actions, and failing to do so is often the cause of accidents that lead to serious injuries.
Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means that even if you are partially at fault for an accident, you may still be able to recover damages. For instance, if a motorcyclist is found to be 20% at fault in an accident, they can still recover 80% of their damages. However, if they are found to be more than 50% at fault, they would be unable to recover any damages.
Even if you feel you may have contributed to the accident, it’s important to consult with a motorcycle injury lawyer who knows the laws in Heath, Texas. An experienced lawyer can help assess the situation, explain your rights and help you seek compensation.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, there are several steps to take:
In Texas, motorcycle law requires riders and passengers under the age of 21 to wear a helmet. If you’re over 21, you are not required to wear a helmet unless you meet one of the following conditions:
If you’re involved in an accident and weren’t wearing a helmet, the other party may try to use this against you. An experienced motorcycle injury lawyer can help argue that the accident would not have occurred if the other party had acted responsibly, regardless of whether you were wearing a helmet.
If you’re a passenger on a motorcycle and get injured in an accident, you are just as entitled to seek compensation as the rider. Whether the accident was caused by the rider or another driver, you have the right to file a claim for your injuries.
If the motorcyclist you were riding with caused the accident, you can file a claim against their insurance policy. While it may feel uncomfortable to file a claim against a friend or loved one, remember that it is the insurance company, not the rider, that will pay for your claim.
At Fielding Law, we understand the stress that comes with dealing with a motorcycle accident. With the right help, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details.
Our experienced Heath motorcycle injury lawyers will thoroughly review your case, investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident and work diligently to prove liability. We are skilled negotiators and will fight against insurance companies that aim to minimize your settlement. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
“Mitch poured his heart and his soul into our family and offered a piece of himself to us! We are forever grateful for all of the help that Mitch offered our family! He is one of a kind! We would highly recommend him and would be happy to speak with anyone who would like to inquire about the quality of his services!” -Jane & John Lacasse