Motorcycle Accidents

While riding a motorcycle may be a thrilling experience, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has determined that the risk of a motorcyclist sustaining an injury or being killed is 30 times higher compared to those traveling in a passenger vehicle. The Texas Department of Transportation found that there was a staggering 17 percent increase in motorcycle accident fatalities in 2020 as compared to 2019. Many passenger vehicle and truck drivers do not take the time to look for motorcyclists on the road, making it much easier to hit a motorcycle. Cars and trucks also offer much better protection for drivers and passengers. Motorcycle riders, even with protective gear and helmets, tend to suffer from severe injuries after a crash. If you or someone you love has been hurt or killed in a Texas motorcycle accident, you want a lawyer on your side who knows the challenges you will face during your recovery.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents happen for a variety of reasons that mainly stem from negligence. Many drivers do not notice motorcycles as they are much smaller than a passenger vehicle and/or those drivers are distracted.

The most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Unsafe lane changes and lane splitting
• Careless or reckless driving
• Cars turning left in front of the path of a motorcycle
• Dense traffic conditions and sudden vehicle stops
• Hazardous road conditions, including loose gravel, potholes, water on the road, and uneven roads
• Hazardous weather conditions

There are clearly many risks to riding a motorcycle, many of which are completely out of the motorcyclist’s control. There are many ways to stay safe when riding a motorcycle, but you cannot always avoid negligent drivers. If you are hurt or a loved one has been killed in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to call an experienced personal injury attorney for help in pursuing compensation.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents have some unique characteristics that cause incredibly severe i

njuries when compared to car accidents. The severity of these injuries is a direct result of the motorcyclist having little to no protection on the bike compared to vehicle occupants protected by the frame of a car, truck, van, or other such structure.

Some common injuries seen in motorcycle accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and spine injuries
• Road rash
• Broken or fractured bones
• Deep lacerations
• Severe bruising
• Internal organ damage and bleeding
• Crushed or severed limbs
• Impalement
• Death

What Should You Do If You Are in A Motorcycle Accident?

The first step you should take after being in a motorcycle accident is to seek medical attention. You may be in shock after the collision and thus may not feel the full extent of your injuries right away. Always see a doctor after being involved in a motorcycle crash. Tell your doctor if you feel anything that seems out of sorts or feels funny. Ask your doctor to document everything in writing and to give you a detailed report of your injuries. If you are able to, after seeking medical attention, try to document everything you can at the scene of the accident. If there were witnesses, make sure to get their contact information. Take photos and video of the scene, as well as the property damage to your bike and your own physical injuries, and speak to the police officer or other government actor that responds to the accident. Getting the police report number will be helpful in the future.

After you have started on the road to recovery, reach out to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. The faster you find representation, the better your chances are for receiving full and fair compensation for your injuries.  An experienced trial lawyer will know how to ensure evidence is preserved and take witness statements quickly while the applicable memories remain fresh in their minds. You may find that the at-fault party’s insurance company tries to avoid paying for your medical costs and/or for the damage to your motorcycle. A lawyer will communicate with the insurance claims representatives so you do not have to experience the stress of frustration of predatory insurance actors.

Amarillo Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Motorcycle accidents can cause severe injuries which can in turn lead to expensive medical bills, lost wages, PTSD, and uncertainty about your future. Your pain and suffering are real, and we are here to help you through this process. The experienced legal team of Lovell, Isern & Farabough, LLP fights for the maximum amount of financial compensation for each and every injury victim and their family – we know how to deal with insurance companies and we stand ready to take your motorcycle accident case to trial if necessary.

We understand that being in a motorcycle accident can be extremely stressful. Our goal is to make the legal process as smooth as possible so you can focus on recovering. We will work hard to hold those responsible for your injuries accountable for their reckless actions and get you the funds you need to both pay for your damages and to medically recover. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a Texas motorcycle accident, contact .